Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, which is accompanied by fatigue, difficulty sleeping and mood issues, plus impaired ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks, which is sometimes referred to as “fibro fog.” Some researchers believe fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals.
Symptoms sometimes begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event.
Women are much more likely to develop fibromyalgia, than men. Many people, who have fibromyalgia, also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia include:
Widespread Pain
The pain associated with fibromyalgia can vary from constant mild pain to very severe pain. To be diagnosed as fibromyalgia, the pain must be widespread, constant and has lasted for, at least, 3 months. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of your body, plus above and below your waist.
Fatigue
People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though, they report sleeping for long periods of time. Sleep is often disrupted by pain, and many patients with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.
Cognitive Difficulties
A symptom commonly referred to as "fibro fog" impairs the ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks.
Other Problems
Many people, who have fibromyalgia, may also experience depression, headaches, and pain or cramping in the lower abdomen.
While there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, many patients report improvements with chiropractic management, which includes chiropractic manipulation; myofascial release techniques (soft tissue); nutritional supplement formulas; nutritional diet modifications; stress management; and lifestyles modifications.
