FIBROMYALGIA

Living with chronic pain can be difficult, especially if it goes untreated. The chiropractic staff at Spine & Injury Associates in central Florida is capable of tackling a wide range of chronic conditions, including fibromyalgia. But what is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia: What Is It?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by body pain, sleeplessness, fatigue, and heightened sensitivity. Patients of this disorder might also suffer from stiffness, depression, anxiety, memory issues, and headaches.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fibromyalgia affects about 4 million American adults (around 2% of the population). Constantly living with fibromyalgia can seriously lower your quality of life, which is why medical experts recommend that you get examined by a doctor if you believe you may have it. There are a variety of treatment options available to those with the disorder.

What Causes Fibromyalgia

The underlying cause of fibromyalgia isn’t yet fully known. More medical research is needed to know about the cause behind fibromyalgia. However, some known risk factors can make people more susceptible to this disorder. Aging, genetics, obesity, repetitive injury, and rheumatoid arthritis are all common risk factors. Women are more likely than men to develop the disorder. Those with a family history of fibromyalgia are also more likely to inherit the disorder.

How Fibromyalgia Is Treated

The first step to dealing with fibromyalgia is getting a diagnosis by a licensed professional. Chiropractors are one of the healthcare professionals who specialize in fibromyalgia treatment. While there isn’t a permanent cure for this chronic disorder, patients will be given pain management solutions to relieve the associated symptoms. Here are the most common pain management treatments for fibromyalgia:

  • Exercise, especially through muscle strengthening and aerobic movement.
  • Stress reduction through massage therapy, yoga, or meditation.
  • Practicing a healthy sleep routine.
  • Pain relief medication.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Among these, physical activity is a particularly popular method of treatment for this condition. Exercising regularly will aid in reducing pain and improving overall mood. Your chiropractor may suggest that you join a sport or exercise program as a way to manage the pain caused by fibromyalgia.

Finding a Chiropractor For Fibromyalgia

Do you live in the central Florida area and need chiropractic care? Spine & Injury Associates is a chiropractic clinic that serves the areas of Orlando, Altamonte Springs, Haines City, Plant City, Kissimmee, Poinciana, Winter Haven, and Ocala. Our services include chiropractic treatment for fibromyalgia. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us to schedule an appointment.