If you’ve been suffering from widespread chronic pain for a long time, you might have fibromyalgia.
What is it? And what could help you deal with it?
Fibromyalgia (or Fibromyalgia Syndrome) is a chronic condition that involves the whole body and manifests through a broad variety of symptoms. The most common of which is, undoubtedly, muscular and joint pain.
Whilst it requires you to see a specialist to help you assess it pharmacologically, there are many treatments available that can dramatically improve your life quality and MSK is one of them. Let’s delve into that and find what works best for you!
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a complex syndrome whose symptoms might involve every aspect of your life. Although the main causes are still unknown, experts theorize that it might be triggered by traumatic events such as:
- The death of a loved one
- Domestic violence
- An injury
- Giving birth
Statistically, it affects more women than men (with a 7 to 1 ratio) but scientists theorize that numbers might be even higher.
Diagnosing Fibromyalgia is, in fact, extremely difficult and it is believed that at least 1 person in 20 has it without them knowing. Many of the main symptoms might be confused with other pathologies or, even worse, ignored and go undetected for a long time, thus decreasing the quality of one’s life.
What Are The Main Symptoms?
In order to get a diagnosis, you usually have to present at least one of these recurring symptoms:
- Higher sensitivity to pain
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Insomnia
- IBS
- Stiffness
As you can see, all of these symptoms are common to other conditions and can even sound neglectable. Many people affected by fibromyalgia might even get used to being in constant pain and start thinking not much about it.
But it’s important that you know that no amount of pain is justifiable and you should always assess this issue with your GP.
The normal level of pain you should be feeling on a daily basis is close to zero and anything higher than that requires medical attention.
How Can MSK Help?
While there’s currently no cure for fibromyalgia, specialists tackle it through a multi-factorial approach consisting of antidepressants, cognitive behavioural therapy, physical therapy and exercise.
MSK Therapy is one of the most known forms of physical rehabilitation for all kinds of muskulo-skeletal pain. Given its traditional, hands-on approach, it’s a valuable help for complex syndromes such as fibromyalgia.
Our therapists are trained to use a variety of techniques such as manipulation, mobilisation and exercise programs to improve your quality of life.
Please bear in mind that, while you don’t need a referral to see a MSK therapist, it’s always best you speak to your GP if you suspect you are suffering from fibromyalgia.
Book Your Consultation…
If you’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia or you think you might have it, book your consultation with one of our MSK Therapists and start your treatments now.
You can find us calling on 01606 45077 or through our online booking system. We are located in Northwich and can be easily reached by train or car.
