Fibromyalgia
Bone And Joint Health Articles > Fibromyalgia
One of the common types of bone and joint health disorders is fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a type of arthritis. It is associated with chronic pain and stiffness throughout the soft fibrous tissues that support and move the bones and joints viz., muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Previously, the condition was known by other names such as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias. Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 3 million to 8 million people in the United States. Approximately 80 percent to 90 percent of affected people are women.
The primary symptom of Fibromyalgia is pain and localized tender points occuring in the muscles and tendons, particularly those of the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips. Other common symptoms include widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, painful periods, morning stiffness, irritable bladder, dry eyes and mouth and dizziness, and impaired coordination.
The cause of Fibromyalgia still remains unknown. Alterations in pain-related chemical transmitters, immune system function, sleep physiology hormonal irregularities and genetic factors are under investigation. It is believed that these could result in an underlying physiological abnormality which could be triggered by an infection (viral or bacterial), an automobile accident or the development of another disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or hypothyroidism. Changes in weather, cold or drafty environments, infections, allergies, hormonal fluctuations (premenstrual and menopausal states), stress, depression, anxiety and over-exertion may all contribute to symptom flare-ups.
The general treatment for fibromyalgia is with a combination of medication and self-care. The emphasis is on minimizing symptoms and improving general health. Most treatments of Fibromyalgia are geared toward improving the quality of sleep and reducing pain. Medications that boost your body's level of serotonin and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters that modulate sleep, pain, and immune system function) are commonly prescribed in low doses. In addition to medications, most patients will need to use other treatment methods as well, such as trigger point injections with lidocaine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, acupuncture, acupressure, relaxation/biofeedback techniques, osteopathic manipulation, chiropractic care, therapeutic massage, or a gentle exercise program.
Reducing stress, maximizing sleep, exercising reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, massage, acupuncture and acupressure are also gaining in popularity. Several of these treatments do appear to safely relieve stress and reduce pain, and some are gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine. But many practices remain unproved because they haven't been adequately studied.
While Fibromyalgia tends to be chronic the symptoms may wax and wane. The impact that Fibromyalgia has on daily living activities, including the ability to work a full-time job, differs among patients. Lifestyle modifications may help patients conserve energy and minimize pain.