Fibromyalgia syndrome is chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, fatigue and multiple tender spots. Other symptoms include debilitating fatigue, sleep disturbance and joint stiffness. Some patients may also report difficulty with swallowing, bowel and bladder abnormalities, numbness and tingling and cognitive dysfunction. The American College of Rheumatology has described eighteen characteristic tender points on the body that are associated with fibromyalgia. In order to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a person must have eleven or more tender points.

Fibromyalgia is often confused and misdiagnosed with another condition called myofascial pain syndrome or myofascitis. Both fibromyalgia and myofascitis can cause widespread pain and disability, but the cause is different. Myofascitis is an inflammatory condition due to overuse or injury to your muscles. The cause of fibromyalgia is currently unknown. However, several hypotheses have been developed including “central sensitization”. This theory proposes that fibromyalgia patients have a lower threshold for pain because of increased sensitivity in the brain to pain signals. Myofascitis tends to come on rather quickly and is usually associated with a particular activity or injury; fibromyalgia on the other hand typically has a slow, insidious onset.

Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is currently unknown, recent research suggests that alterations in the central nervous system might be the result of childhood stress, or prolonged or severe stress might be to blame. This is probably why Chiropractic care has been so successful in decreasing or alleviating patients pain from fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia can often be difficult to treat. Many doctors are not familiar with fibromyalgia and its treatment. Over the years we have developed a unique approach to treating fibromyalgia. This involves a team approach between the doctor and the patient. We typically utilize chiropractic manipulation to reduce nervous system distortions, trigger point therapy, massage, dietary changes, physiotherapy, exercises and stretching. Proper chiropractic care is critical to insure that your muscles and joints maintain proper movement and alignment. Fibromyalgia often causes the muscles to tighten excessively leading to more pain and loss of spinal and joint movement.

If you or someone you know is suffering from fibromyalgia, call our office today at 702-655-1199 for a no charge consultation and find the relief you have been looking for.