What You Need to Know About Fibromyalgia
By Rachel Carver
If you still see some commercials, you have probably stared at an advertisement about fibromyalgia. Based on the ad, you know it is painful and can be debilitating. But how exactly is it different from the many other things that cause pain?
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia can cause physical pain throughout the entire body. It is also linked to emotional pain. Fibromyalgia symptoms are often confused with those of arthritis and joint inflammation. However, it does not cause muscle damage or joint inflammation.
According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, this condition is one of the most common causes of pain in the world. It affects about 10 million people in the United States. Approximately 80-90 percent of fibromyalgia sufferers are women.
Some injuries can be painful. This pain decreases as your body heals. However, people with fibromyalgia hurt constantly, and the pain does not go away. Some doctors believe people with this condition have higher amounts of cells that carry pain signals, which means even a small bruise will hurt more than it should.
Causes
The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains a mystery. Some possible causes are:
- Genes passed to you making you more sensitive to pain
- Acquiring another painful disease such as arthritis
- Posttraumatic stress disorder caused by trauma can trigger fibromyalgia
- Not enough movement and a life of being mostly sedentary
Symptoms
Studies suggest individuals over 45 or more susceptible to fibromyalgia symptoms. These include:
- Painful body aches
- Fatigue
- Trouble remembering or concentrating
- Poor sleep
- Headaches and jaw pain
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Sensitivity to noise, light, or to hot or cold weather
Treatment
If you are currently experiencing any fibromyalgia symptoms, The Joint Chiropractic clinic is here to help. Each person reacts differently to fibromyalgia. The Joint team will take the time to get to know you and devise a treatment plan to fit your needs. Along with safe and drug-free adjustments, your chiropractor can recommend exercises and dietary changes to manage your symptoms.
Whether you have persistent back pain or headaches, don't delay care. Medication may help temporarily, but pain that does not go away needs chiropractic care. A visit to your neighborhood Joint clinic can get you back to your life.
Come on in today. The Joint's affordable prices and walk-in visits make care accessible to everyone. You will be glad you did!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mayfield Heights, Ohio.