Fibromyalgia 101
What is fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia is a chronic medical condition that affects around 5-7% of the global population. The disorder causes muscle pain, excess fatigue, and sleep disorders. It is also frequently associated with other medical conditions such as chronic fatigue, endometriosis, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Maybe you or a loved one are living with the condition, or perhaps worry that you are showing symptoms that may indicate the need for a professional diagnosis. If so, keep reading for more information on causes, symptoms, and ways that you can treat fibromyalgia.
Common Causes of Fibromyalgia
Unfortunately, we still don’t know the exact causes of the condition, but there are a number of factors that very likely contribute to its development based on decades of research. These include:
Abnormal Pain Signals
Many doctors believe that fibromyalgia is partially caused by the way your brain, nerves, and spinal cord transmit pain signals. A possible “glitch” in the central nervous system means that a person with fibromyalgia has more cells that carry these pain signals. This explains why these people are more prone to chronic pain and extreme sensitivity to minor physical impacts.
Triggers
Occasions of high physical or emotional stress can trigger fibromyalgia. Viral infections, injury, operations, as well as emotional abuse or emotional trauma are all things that can trigger the condition or worsen its present symptoms.
Genetics
As with many disorders that do not yet have a clear cause, genetics are presumed to play some small part in the development of fibromyalgia. It’s likely that there is a genetic component to how our bodies regulate their response to pain, and heightened pain sensitivity may be a heritable trait.
Hormones
People with fibromyalgia typically have low levels of ​​serotonin, cortisol, noradrenaline, and dopamine, all of which help to regulate things like mood, sleep, and stress response. These hormone imbalances may contribute to the development of fibromyalgia.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
There are many fibromyalgia symptoms , but the main signs tend to be pain, tenderness, and sensitivity in your muscles and joints. Pain is usually widespread throughout the body, and particularly in your back and neck. You may also experience pain from things that are usually not painful, or feel pain for a longer duration than is normal.
Other symptoms can include stiffness, muscle spasms, and contractions, moderate to severe fatigue, brain fog, headaches, dizziness, tingling in the hands and feet, anxiety, and depression.
If you are experiencing chronic pain and other related symptoms but have not been previously diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you should make an appointment with your doctor.
How We Can Help
When it comes to fibromyalgia treatment , it’s important to find healthcare professionals who understand the condition and can help you know what you are dealing with. Pain relief and pain management are also essential in treating fibromyalgia.
Fortunately, at Bodyworx Vitality, we offer a variety of services that can help to alleviate pain and guide you through ways to cope with the aches and stiffness you are feeling. These services include:
Acupuncture
Acupuncture can offer moderate pain relief for those dealing with chronic pain disorders like fibromyalgia.
Chiropractic Care
Many people diagnosed with fibromyalgia suffer from back and neck pain, as well as cramps. Patients have found that the spinal realignments involved with chiropractic care can reduce pain in different parts of their bodies.
Registered Massage Therapy (RMT)
RMT is a common form of pain relief therapy for those struggling with fibromyalgia. It can be a very useful part of a comprehensive plan for pain management.
We Can Help
If you are struggling with widespread chronic pain, we can help guide you through effective pain relief and management strategies. Our team of highly skilled professionals at Bodyworx Vitality is here to get you back on track, so you can live life with minimal to no chronic pain issues. To book your first consultation, call us at +905-553-5900 or contact us online .