Fibromyalgia

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Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia

Definition

Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder that causes widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and brain fog. Fibromyalgia produces symptoms similar to other chronic pain conditions, which can make diagnosing this condition difficult for physicians. Nevertheless, there are certain characteristics both mental and physical that are unique to fibromyalgia. The condition is more common in women than men, and only approximately 10% of fibromyalgia cases are found in male patients. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, the experts at Tulsa Pain can manage symptoms with various conservative, alternative, and interventional treatment options.

Causes

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not clear, but many physicians speculate genetics play a role in the development of this condition. There appears to be a relationship between family health history and fibromyalgia, so if a patient has a family member with the condition, they may be more likely to suffer from fibromyalgia as well. Another hypothesis suggests fibromyalgia is caused by a traumatic event. In some cases, an illness or physical injury could trigger fibromyalgia symptoms. Researchers believe neurotransmitters in the brain may be less effective at responding to pain after a stressful situation occurs in fibromyalgia patients.

Symptoms

Fibromyalgia is described as widespread muscle pain that occurs on both sides of the body. Patients often report pain symptoms that are dull or achy with accompanied stiffness or numbness. While pain can be felt anywhere on the body, fibromyalgia patients typically experience increased pain in specific “tender points." These areas help physicians accurately diagnose the condition. Another characteristic of fibromyalgia is fatigue and insomnia. Patients suffering from these symptoms may experience an inability to concentrate, remember, or focus on a task at hand as a result. Less commonly, patients may develop stomach pains, cramping, or chronic headaches.

Treatments

There are many lifestyle remedies patients can use to manage their fibromyalgia symptoms. The physicians at Tulsa Pain highly recommend patients engage in low-impact exercise routines and healthy, nutritious diets to reduce pain. Exercise can help relieve physical discomfort, combat fatigue, and reduce any behavioral health issues a patient may have. Since pain is often widespread, patients may benefit from trigger point injections or other therapies including acupuncture, diathermy, and infrared therapy.

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