If you or your loved ones have been diagnosed with
fibromyalgia, you may be wondering what the disorder means for you. The
condition still remains a mystery, although an estimated 3 to 6 percent of
Americans, predominantly women, have fibromyalgia syndrome. At Doroski Chiropractic Neurology in the
Woodbridge, Dale City Virginia area we see this condition daily. Even diagnosing the condition can be complex:
according to the National Fibromyalgia Association, it can take a patient up to
4 years to be accurately diagnosed.
Fibromyalgia is
typically diagnosed in patients with:
Widespread pain in all 4 quadrants of the body for a minimum
of 3 months; and
Tenderness or pain in at least 11 tender points when
pressure is applied. These tender points cluster around the neck, shoulder,
chest, hip, knee, and elbow regions.
Some fibromyalgia experts say, however, that many people may
still have fibromyalgia with fewer than 11 tender points if they have
widespread pain and several other common symptoms, including:
Fatigue
Sleep disorders
Chronic headaches
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Cognitive or memory impairment
Malaise and muscle pain after exertion
Jaw pain
Morning stiffness
Menstrual cramping
Irritable bowels
Numbness and tingling sensations
Skin and chemical sensitivities
Correct Diagnosis Is Key
Correct diagnosis of fibromyalgia is very elusive, so if you
are diagnosed with the disorder—or suspect that you have it—seek the opinion of
more than 1 health care provider. Other conditions may create fibromyalgia—like
pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Ruling other conditions out first is very
important.
In addition to clinical evaluation that will assess possible
causes of your pain, your doctor may need to order blood work to determine if
you have:
Anemia
Hypothyroidism
Lyme disease
Other rheumatic diseases
Hormonal imbalances
Allergies and nutritional deficiencies
Disorders that cause pain, fatigue, and other
fibromyalgia-like symptoms.
If the tests show that you have 1 of these conditions,
treatment will focus on addressing that problem first. If your pain is caused
by a muscle or joint condition, chiropractic care may help relieve it more
effectively than other therapies.
Treatment
Alternatives
If no underlying cause for your symptoms can be identified,
you may have classic fibromyalgia. The traditional allopathic approach includes
a prescription of prednisone, anti-inflammatory agents, antidepressants, sleep
medications, and muscle relaxants. These temporarily relieve the symptoms, but
they do produce side effects. If you prefer a natural approach, the following
suggestions may be helpful:
Studies have shown that a combination of 300 to 600 mg of
magnesium per day, along with malic acid, may significantly reduce may
significantly reduce the number of tender points and the pain felt at those
that remain. B vitamins may also be helpful.
Eating more omega-3 fatty acids and fewer saturated fats has
shown promise in fibromyalgia patients. Limit red meat and saturated fats and
increase the amounts of omega-3 fatty acids by including fish, flax, and walnut
oils in your diet. Fatty acid deficiencies can interfere with the nervous
system and brain function, resulting in depression and poor memory and concentration.
Improving the quality
of sleep can help reduce fatigue. Watch your caffeine intake, especially before
going to bed. Reduce TV and computer time. If you watch TV in the evening,
choose relaxing, funny programs instead of programs with violent or disturbing
content. Ask your doctor of chiropractic for other natural ways to help you
sleep better.
Stress-managing strategies can also help address anxiety or
depression issues. Cognitive therapy has been shown helpful in relieving
fibromyalgia patients’ negative emotions and depression by changing their
perception of themselves and attitudes toward others.
A traditional gym-based or aerobic exercise program may
exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms and is not recommended. Instead, yoga,
Pilates, or tai chi—which offer mild stretching, relaxation, and breathing
techniques—may work better than vigorous exercise.
Studies have shown
that acupuncture is another effective, conservative approach to treating
fibromyalgia symptoms and many doctors of chiropractic offer this service right
in their offices.
Chiropractic care has consistently ranked as one of the
therapeutic approaches that offer the most relief for the fibromyalgia patient.
Your doctor of chiropractic can also include massage therapy, ultrasound and electrical
stimulation in the treatment program, which may help relieve stress, pain, and
other symptoms.
Your doctor of chiropractic has the knowledge, training, and
expertise to help you understand your problem and, in many cases, to manage it
successfully. Remember, however, that the treatment program can be successful
only with your active participation. If your doctor of chiropractic feels that
he or she cannot help you, you will be directed to another health care
provider.
3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102
Woodbridge VA 22192
703 730 9588
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