Overview

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder involving widespread pain and sensitivity throughout the entire musculoskeletal system. To be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, a patient typically has a minimum of 11 out of 18 specific tender points on the body. In addition to pain, patients also report long-term fatigue and/or disturbed sleep and mood. Other disorders commonly associated with Fibromyalgia include irritable bowel syndrome, TMJ pain and dysfunction, psychological conditions and some autoimmune diseases. Fibromyalgia is a widespread condition that affects about 2 percent of the United States, and medical science has yet to discover the cause of this condition.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia can include:

– Hypersensitivity
– Altered Mood
– Sleep Disturbances
– Tension or Migraine Headaches
– Feelings of Anxiety or depression
– Tingling in arms and legs
– Stiffness upon waking up
– TMJ pain
– Increased urinary frequency or urgency

Causes

The cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown but since many of the symptoms deal with perception so many scientists think there is a major psychological component to the disease. Still others believe that it is physiological and is the result of prior trauma, poor posture, or a Central Nervous System neurotransmitter imbalance.

Therapy

Even though the cause is unknown we can still help. A recent study has shown that chiropractic adjustments along with a soft tissue technique significantly reduced pain, improved sleep and decreased fatigue in 60% of the participants. There may also be a need for counseling if you are experiencing any major symptoms of anxiety or depression.