Fibromyalgia Specialist

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body. In addition to widespread pain and stiffness, fibromyalgia also causes:

• Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and facial pain
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Sleep problems
• Headaches and migraine
• Digestive problems
• Problems with thinking, concentration, and memory

The chronic nature of fibromyalgia, combined with the challenges of diagnosing and treating the disease, can also contribute to depression and anxiety. 

What causes fibromyalgia?

Medical researchers don’t fully understand the causes of fibromyalgia. Some studies indicate that it could be due to repeated nerve stimulation that changes the neurological processes that signal pain. 

Factors that might contribute to fibromyalgia include a family history of the disease, infections, physical trauma, and prolonged stress.  

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

Currently, there isn’t a single diagnostic test to identify fibromyalgia. SEPA Pain & Spine provides a thorough consultation, including a physical exam, X-rays, and blood tests. They look for pain or tenderness in a minimum of 11 tender point locations and symptoms that have lasted for three months or more. 

Depending on your results, you may need additional tests to rule out other conditions before an official diagnosis. 

How is fibromyalgia treated?

Fibromyalgia doesn’t have a cure, but SEPA Pain & Spine provides highly personalized treatment programs to manage your symptoms. Your provider tailors the treatment plan to address your unique needs and may include:

Lifestyle modifications

One of the first ways to manage fibromyalgia is optimizing your overall health. That includes adjusting your diet to cut back on products that trigger inflammation. You can also take steps to ensure you get enough sleep and manage stress. 

Physical therapy and exercise

Exercise may be the last thing you want to do when you live with chronic pain. However, regular gentle physical activity such as walking, swimming, yoga, and Pilates can improve your balance and strength, maintain bone mass, and reduce stress. 

Physical therapy can help you build your strength, stamina, and flexibility gradually and safely. Exercising under the supervision and guidance of a physical therapist reduces your risk of overdoing it or injuring yourself. 

Medication management

Some people with fibromyalgia benefit from anti-inflammatory medicines and certain antidepressants. SEPA Pain & Spine usually combines medication with other therapies for optimal relief. 

If you have fibromyalgia or live with chronic pain, call SEPA Pain & Spine, or make an appointment online today.