What is fibromyalgia?

Nobody knows. That’s why they call it a syndrome, which is the worst possible scenario for someone with pain–no clear diagnosis. You see, fibromyalgia (FM) is just a collection of signs and symptoms that can change from day to day. But fibromyalgia can be severe, and it can take its toll anywhere on the body. It can also be an underlying cause of neck and back pain.

What causes fibromyalgia?

In a word: imbalances. These imbalances can occur in our stress levels, hormone levels, and nutritional levels. They also manifest themselves through inconsistent sleep patterns and the body’s inability to clear metabolic waste. Muscle imbalances can adversely affect your posture, which can lead to neck and back pain. Other causes of fibromyalgia include psychological factors, trauma, surgical procedures, and even the silent epidemic of Lyme’s disease.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

There is no set of diagnostic symptoms that clearly indicates FM, so it is usually given a clinical diagnosis by your physician. If you suspect you are suffering from FM, it is best to seek out a rheumatologist who is an expert in fibromyalgia.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

The classic symptoms are chronic and systemic pain and tenderness, fatigue, muscle spasm, weakness in the extremities, and sleep disturbances. There is a long list of additional symptoms, and it should be understoood that each person will experience any or all of these symptoms differently. The extent and severity will also depend on the individual.

What are the most common fibromyalgia treatments?

By far, the most common treatment is medication, including antidepressants, antiseizure drugs, and sleeping pills. There are also non-drug treatments such as physical exercise and water therapy, as well as many of the modalities that use hot packs and ultrasound. Stimulating blood flow using massage or a hot tub has also shown to be beneficial.

Why do traditional fibromyalgia treatments fail?

Most traditional treatments fail to provide quality relief because they merely address the symptoms and fail to address the cause of the condition. Unless the cause is fully understood, trying to get rid of the problem becomes a guessing game. One thing is certain: no treatment has been found to be the “one thing that works for everyone.”