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Fibromyalgia
| Definition
of Fibromyalgia |
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Fibromyalgia
is a common condition characterized by widespread pain in
joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Some other
problems commonly linked with fibromyalgia include fatigue,
morning stiffness, sleep problems, headaches, numbness in
hands and feet, depression, and anxiety.
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How Fibromyalgia
Develops
Fibromyalgia can develop on its own, or secondary to other musculoskeletal
conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, or systemic lupus.
Diagnosing
Fibromyalgia
Diagnosis of fibromyalgia requires a history of at least three months
of widespread pain, and pain and tenderness in a least 11 of 18
tender-point sites. These tender-point sites include fibrous tissue
or muscles of the neck, shoulders, chest, rib cage, lower back,
thighs, knees, arms (elbows) and buttocks. The overwhelming characteristic
of fibromyalgia is long-standing, body-wide pain with defined tender
points. Tender points are distinct from trigger points seen in other
pain syndromes. (Unlike tender points, trigger points can occur
in isolation and represent a source of radiating pain, even in the
absence of direct pressure.) Fibromyalgia pain can mimic the pain
experienced by people with various types of arthritis. The soft-tissue
pain of fibromyalgia is described as deep-aching, radiating, gnawing,
shooting or burning, and ranges from mild to severe. Fibromyalgia
sufferers tend to waken with body aches and stiffness.
Fibromyalgia
Symptoms
- Multiple
tender areas
- Sleep disturbances
- Reduced exercise
tolerance
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Chronic muscle
pain or aching
Fibromyalgia
Treatment
Chiropractic care works on relieving pain and symptoms associated
with fibromyalgia. To see if chiropractic may be able to help you
call 253-638-2424 or use the online form
today for a complimentary consultation with a chiropractor.
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