Fibromyalgia – Why is it a difficult condition?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that is not well-understood. It is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, and fatigue. It is often coupled with sleep disturbances, among other symptoms. The term Fibromyalgia literally means “pain and discomfort of muscle fibers”.
Because the exact cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, there is no single test that can detect the presence of the disorder, so that the diagnosis is largely based on a patient’s combined symptoms where no other medical diagnosis is found. The condition is controversial in the medical society; with some doctors still disagreeing whether a diagnosis should be made merely on somatic reports, rather than on something scientifically concrete.
Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia may include:
• Muscle Pain
• Malaise, body aches
• Sleep problems
• Morning stiffness
• Muscle cramping and weakness
• Headaches
• Numbness and tingling
Factors that are known to aggravate these symptoms are: stress, fatigue, cold weather, depression, anxiety, and hormonal fluctuations. The underlying problem can also be brought out by physical or psychological trauma.
Treatments Options for Fibromyalgia
There is no universally accepted treatment or cure for Fibromyalgia. Treatment typically focuses on relieving the symptoms and improving a person’s quality of life. Prescription medications, behavioral intervention, and exercise, have been known to help alleviate pain and other symptoms.
Nervous system suppressants have also yielded some moderate effect. Fibromyalgia is not degenerative nor is it fatal; but the symptoms can severely affect a person’s quality of life.
Tissue repair and herbal supplements have been found by many patients to be very helpful. Specialized physiotherapy techniques as well as shockwave therapy to relax trigger points of tight muscles, are also very good options to consider.
If you might be suffering from fibromyalgia, or if your condition has not improved despite standard treatments, simply call us at +65 6732 2397 or leave a message below for Dr Tan to discuss a customized non-invasive solution for you.
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