FIBROMYALGIA
Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread pain. The primary symptoms are muscle and joint pain, but sufferers also commonly experience chronic fatigue, poor sleep, poor bowel function, headaches, TMJ– jaw pain , and bladder pain. There is no definitive test for fibromyalgia. Diagnosis is difficult in that there is not a specific “test” for fibromyalgia. Classification is based on criteria that include a history of widespread pain for over 3 months and multiple tender points found throughout the body. Here is a slideshow on fibromyalgia symptoms, tests, and treatments.
Physical Therapy does not “cure” this problem but can be helpful in improving pain and function. Exercise is very beneficial and a PT can help introduce and progress movements in ways to get the most benefit with less pain and discomfort.
Conservative Physical Therapy Management of fibromyalgia related pain may include:
- Modalities: such as heat and ice
- Manual Therapy: “hands on” treatment to improve pain and restore function and movement.
- Mobilization and Manipulation: movement of a joint to improve pain and restore functional movement.
- Therapeutic Exercise: specific exercise to improve pain and restore functional movement. It is important with fibromyalgia to start exercise carefully and progress slowly.
- Functional Movement Training: exercises to improve posture and movement.
- Biofeedback: a way of using a computer or other device to “see” and improve body functions such as muscle activity or indicators of stress.
- Electrical Stimulation or TENS: used to help improve pain, inflammation, muscle spasm, muscle function, and circulation.
Physical Therapists are specialists in restoring movement and function related to muscle, bone, or joint dysfunction. They often work to improve pain and disability. To learn more about PT or find one in your area, check out a consumer oriented site on PT here or the main site of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) here.
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