Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects many people all around the world. Symptoms of fibromyalgia are known to cause muscle pain, fatigue, sleep issues, and tenderness throughout the body. At Optimum Alberta Back and Neck Rehab in Calgary, we understand how difficult it is to live with Fibromyalgia; that’s why our clinic offers a variety of treatments to help you manage the symptoms. Our team comprises experienced doctors and therapists who use evidence-based practices to design individualized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain affecting your body’s muscles and soft tissues. Common symptoms include widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Furthermore, Fibromyalgia can present itself differently in people. However, some common signs and symptoms are muscle pain, fatigue, sleep issues, brain fog, and tenderness throughout your body. Fatigue can range from mild to debilitating, and sleep disturbances can include problems with falling or staying asleep and restless leg syndrome. Brain fog can make it difficult to concentrate or remember things, and tenderness is often described as feeling like a bruise.

Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

Diagnosing Fibromyalgia involves ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms, as there is currently no definitive test. Doctors may perform blood tests or imaging studies to rule out other conditions causing your symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam to check for tender points throughout your body. Additionally, a diagnosis may be made if you have experienced widespread pain for at least three months, with no other underlying medical condition to explain the symptoms. At Optimum Alberta Back and Neck Rehab, our team can work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and helps improve your quality of life.

What Causes Fibromyalgia

The exact cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic risk factors and environmental and psychological factors. Additionally, research has found that compared to people with Fibromyalgia have increased levels of a nerve chemical known as substance P, which amplifies pain signals in the body. Conversely, substance P is much lower in people without Fibromyalgia. Other factors contributing to the development of Fibromyalgia include physical or emotional trauma, infections, and autoimmune disorders. However, while this chronic condition’s exact cause remains a mystery, effective treatments are available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.

Is There a Cure For Fibromyalgia?

There is no cure for Fibromyalgia, but many treatments are available to help manage the symptoms. These include physical therapy, exercise, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle changes. At Optimum Alberta Back and Neck Rehab in Calgary, we have many ways to help treat Fibromyalgia and manage your symptoms. Our experienced doctors and therapists use evidence-based practices to design individualized treatment plans that suit your unique needs.

Treatment Options for Fibromyalgia

There are many treatments available to help manage the symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility, exercise programs tailored to your individual needs, relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, and lifestyle changes like improving your sleep habits or reducing stress. Optimum Alberta Back and Neck Rehab offer individualized treatment plans based on your unique needs. Treatment plans may include the following:

Physical Therapy

Fibromyalgia pain symptoms respond well to physical therapy treatments. Treatment has been shown to improve motor function and reduce fatigue. Your physical therapist will work with you to establish an effective treatment plan. We will also teach you a variety of exercises that help relieve pain and improve your quality of life.

Cold Laser Therapy

Cold Laser, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive approach that uses low-level light therapy to stimulate the body’s natural healing process, relieving pain and inflammation in affected areas. Low-Level Laser therapy has been shown to improve overall pain levels and promote tissue repair, providing relief for Fibromyalgia sufferers. Furthermore, by incorporating cold laser therapy into a comprehensive treatment plan, patients can experience a significant improvement in their symptoms and overall quality of life.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment option that can relieve fibromyalgia symptoms. During chiropractic sessions, a chiropractor may perform spinal manipulations to improve joint mobility and reduce pain throughout the body. Chiropractic adjustments can also help improve your sleep quality, which can be a challenge for people with Fibromyalgia. Stretching exercises and dietary changes may also be part of a chiropractic treatment plan for Fibromyalgia.

Massage Therapy Can Manage Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Massage is an effective treatment for people with Fibromyalgia, as it has been shown to reduce muscle tension, pain, and stiffness. Regular massages can also help improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety and depression, often associated with this condition. At Optimum Alberta Back and Neck Rehab, our experienced massage therapists work closely with you to design a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. This might include massage techniques targeting fibromyalgia-affected body parts, such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is another alternative treatment option that has shown promise in managing fibromyalgia symptoms. This traditional Chinese medicine involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and reduce pain. Studies have found that acupuncture can help reduce pain, improve quality of life, and decrease the use of medications in people with Fibromyalgia. At Optimum Alberta Back and Neck Rehab, we offer acupuncture as part of our comprehensive approach to managing fibromyalgia symptoms, tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Behavioural Therapies and Treating Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Behavioural therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help treat chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia. CBT can teach you relaxation techniques, stress management, and coping strategies to help manage your symptoms. However, behavioural therapies are most effective when combined with other treatments.

Can Lifestyle Changes Help Fibromyalgia?

• Regular exercise: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and yoga can help reduce pain and stiffness.
• Stress management: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and improve sleep.
• Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
• Good sleep habits: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help enhance sleep quality. Poor sleep quality can worsen your fibromyalgia symptoms.
• Avoiding triggers: Certain foods, activities, or environmental factors may trigger symptoms in some people with Fibromyalgia. Keeping a symptom diary can help you identify these triggers to avoid them.

Conclusion

Fibromyalgia affects many people and causes widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. While there is no cure for Fibromyalgia, we can help you to manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Fibromyalgia, we encourage you to call us at (403) 245-8282. You can also book your appointment with our clinic here. We are happy to discuss the many treatment options we can offer you and develop a personalized plan for managing your condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Fibromyalgia cause hypersensitivity?

A: Fibromyalgia tends to cause patients to become hypersensitive to many stimuli, primarily pain and pressure. Headaches and migraines are common and can be one of many indicators of Fibromyalgia.

Q: Does Fibromyalgia cause dizziness?

A: Dizziness is also a common symptom of Fibromyalgia. This may also lead to feelings of imbalance and nausea, which can result in a fall and further injury.

Q: Does Fibromyalgia cause Restless Leg Syndrome?

People with Fibromyalgia frequently report restless leg syndrome. While RLS is a symptom, it is not necessarily a sign of Fibromyalgia unless accompanied by other symptoms.