Fibromyalgia Management Programs
We are proud to offer one of the first outpatient Fibromyalgia management programs to be focused, not only on pain management but also on increasing functional abilities.
Mobility Physio’s approach in treating Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain syndromes is based on the Biopsychosocial concept for treating chronic pain. Our program consists of a comprehensive treatment plan, utilizing the collaborative efforts of our physiotherapists and other health care practitioners. We encourage our patients to play an active role in managing their condition and provide education on self-management strategies.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a name given to a group of symptoms marked by generalized pain and muscle stiffness. These symptoms can be felt in all different areas of the body. Extreme fatigue and sleep problems are also common. Fibromyalgia does not cause inflammation or damage to the painful areas but seems to be due to an overactive nervous system that intensifies pain sensation.
What are Fibromyalgia symptoms?
The most common symptoms of Fibromyalgia are:
- Pain-usually aching, stiffness, and tiredness of muscles. Pain may be at its worst after rest (e.g. first thing in the morning) or after activity
- Extreme fatigue (tiredness), making it difficult to do normal daily activities
- Problems with concentration and memory
- Irritable bowel (diarrhea, stomach pain)
- The symptoms of Fibromyalgia also include:
- Cognitive difficulties commonly referred to as Fibro fog
- Migraine
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
- Disturbed sleep
- Physical and mental disability affecting daily life and work
- Anxiety & depression
What causes Fibromyalgia?
The actual cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, and for many people, it starts for no obvious reason. Extensive research suggests that the affected body may become extra sensitive in how it signals and processes pain.
It can be more common in people who have:
- Inflammatory Arthritis (for example, Rheumatoid Arthritis)
- An illness, such as a virus (or following an illness or infection)
- Pain from an injury or trauma
- Emotional stress and depression
- Infections
- Genetics may also play a role
How is Fibromyalgia diagnosed?
Fibromyalgia is not a diagnosis; it is a chronic pain condition as the result of an overactive Central Nervous System (brain and spine). Although the painful muscles appear to look and function normally and no blood tests, x-rays or scans can detect any abnormality, the pain is very real. Your doctor or Rheumatologist (arthritis specialist) will look for a number of signs that are typical and include widespread pain for more than three months, and widespread tenderness of the body.
Fibromyalgia Management Programs
The good news is that Fibromyalgia does not cause any lasting damage to the muscles or joints. It is important to remember that, with proper help and a better understanding, the symptoms can be effectively managed. The symptoms of Fibromyalgia can range from very mild to severe, and may last for many years, or come and go at different times. With the right advice, most people find they learn to manage the pain and tiredness over time. If the pain is more severe and affecting your normal activities, our program is for you.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain along with sleep disturbance, headache, fatigue, mood, and memory issues. It affects soft tissue and muscles and frequently affects the neck and back area. It amplifies the painful sensations and affects the way the pain signals are processed by the brain. Women are more affected by Fibromyalgia than men by a high margin of 8-9 to 1. It may be caused by physical trauma such as after a car accident, infection, surgery or any psychological stress or may even be caused over time without any triggering factor, Fibromyalgia Management Programs.
How does a physiotherapist treat Fibromyalgia?
A physiotherapist can help in relieving pain associated with Fibromyalgia by using manual therapy and modalities to manage pain and by teaching exercises to improve flexibility, stamina, and strength. Research supports the effect of conditioning and postural and core strengthening exercises in managing many symptoms related to Fibromyalgia. Water-based exercises are particularly more helpful in Fibromyalgia in more severe cases and patients who have been suffering for many years. The therapist will make use of stretching exercises and relaxation exercises to improve the flexibility of the muscles and reduce tension.
What are the best treatment options for Fibromyalgia?
Managing pain, fatigue and other symptoms related to chronic pain is the key to the successful management of Fibromyalgia. Patients are empowered to take control of their pain and symptoms when are given appropriate education and understand the nature of chronic pain. Appropriate medication prescription plays an important role in treating Fibromyalgia. Your doctor, pain specialist, neurologist or physiatrist are the ones who will prescribe and monitor your response to treatment. However, there are many other treatment options that can help you to manage your pain, minimized the amount of medication or their side effects, and improve your quality of life.
- Medications such as Lyrica and Anti-depressants to manage pain and inflammation and improve quality of sleep
- Acupuncture & dry needling performed by an experienced acupuncturist with knowledge of chronic pain management
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Sleep regulation
- Meditation
- Yoga
- The regular exercise focused on conditioning, core strengthening, and balance exercises
- A balanced, healthy diet of fresh vegetable and fruit
- Weight management
- Supplementation such as Omega 3s and Vitamin D
- Psychological intervention and CBT
