PRC - Fibromyalgia - What Is Fibromyalgia
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a tricky condition that arises from a myriad of different causes, and is most likely a result of many factors working together. Often times, especially after a physical injury, surgery, infection, or significant psychological stress, fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, and occasional psychological ailments such as anxiety and depression. Doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes fibromyalgia, but believe that certain risk factors such as being female, family history and rheumatic disease can increase your chances of developing the disorder.
The pain associated with fibromyalgia is unique from other pain-related conditions due to the widespread nature of the pain. Patients typically describe fibromyalgia pain as a constant, dull aching that seems to arise from the muscles. Additionally, pain is intensified when firm pressure to applied to various “tender points” on the body, such as the back of the head, between the shoulder blades, upper chest, side of hips, and so on.
Fatigue is another symptom that often occurs in people who suffer from fibromyalgia. Many patients report feeling tired, even after a restful night’s sleep. Other times, people report being woken up in the middle of the night due to the pain caused by the condition.
If you believe you may have fibromyalgia, consult your physician to see if your symptoms meet the criteria associated with the disease. Most cases are diagnosed after reports of widespread pain lasting at least three months, and no other underlying condition that can be responsible for the pain. Your doctor may rule out other conditions by eliciting a complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and thyroid function tests.
If you’ve already been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, visit any Relax The Back location in St. Louis today to find out how you can manage the pain associated with the condition. Our in-store back care product consultants will happily help you find a way to combat pain caused by fibromyalgia.
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