To date Fibromyalgia is perhaps one of the most challenging chronic pain conditions actively under investigation in the world pain community. The most recent findings provide hope for better symptom control.
- Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain state with disordered sensory processing in the body.
- The exact cause, or causes, of Fibromyalgia are still not known but the central nervous system is thought to be the underlying mechanism of FM.
- Most research supports the hypothesis that Fibromyalgia is the result of changes in the central nervous system (Spinal Cord and Brain).
- Since there is no known cure for Fibromyalgia, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving function.
Fibromyalgia Treatment Overview
Current Medical Approach supported by evidence based studies
Multi-Modal Management Strategies for Fibromyalgia
- Patient Education – Understanding what Fibromyalgia is and what it is not.
- Treat co-morbid conditions - get help with any other health issues you may have or are struggling with.
- Medications – to address the symptoms of pain, sleep disturbances, and mood.
- Sleep Hygiene - create habits and practices that will help you sleep well on a regular basis.
- Psychological support – psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), support groups, mindful meditation …
- Alternative Therapies – restorative Yoga, Tai Chi, hydrotherapy, massage, …
- Physical Therapy – a gentle movement program such as gentle stretching, walking, therapeutic pool, …
- Manage your expectations - Minimize disappointment by planning what you can realistically achieve in a day & pace yourself.
Targeting Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Current Thoughts on Fibromyalgia
Research findings in Fibromyalgia point to a malfunctioning of the Central Nervous System (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. Dysfunctional interplay between the CNS and peripheral systems is believed to be the source of the many body-wide symptoms.
Definition of Pain:
"Pain is a mutually recognizable somatic experience that reflects a person's apprehension of threat to their bodily or existential integrity." (December, 2017, IASP)
Pain can be helpful in diagnosing a problem. You might not realize you have a medical problem that needs treatment. Once you take care of the problem, pain usually goes away. Without pain, you might seriously hurt yourself without knowing it.
Chronic pain
"Pain is a mutually recognizable somatic experience that reflects a person's apprehension of threat to their bodily or existential integrity." (December, 2017, IASP)
Pain can be helpful in diagnosing a problem. You might not realize you have a medical problem that needs treatment. Once you take care of the problem, pain usually goes away. Without pain, you might seriously hurt yourself without knowing it.
- Pain is always subjective.
- Pain is a sensation in a part, or parts, of the body,
- Pain is always unpleasant
- Pain is an emotional experience
Chronic pain
- the original cause may have been an injury or infection
- Chronic Pain is a feeling set off in the nervous system.
- There may be an ongoing cause of pain, such as arthritis or cancer.
- If chronic pain remains untreated, the pain signals are embedded in the central nervous system like a painful memory.
- Chronic Pain may be sharp or dull. It may come and go, or it may be constant. You may feel pain in one area of your body, such as your back, abdomen or chest or you may feel pain all over, such as when your muscles ache from the flu.
- With Fibromyalgia there is no clear cause found yet!
Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only.
Please discuss any specific symptoms you may be experiencing with your treating physician.
We do not endorse, support or recommend any treatment, product, theory or professionals to our members or readers.
Please discuss any specific symptoms you may be experiencing with your treating physician.
We do not endorse, support or recommend any treatment, product, theory or professionals to our members or readers.