What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a systemic issue characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, fogginess, and tenderness in tendons and muscles.
How do I Treat Fibromyalgia?
The best way to treat fibromyalgia is through lifestyle changes that include diet, mobility and resistance training, sleep, pacing and energy management, and returning to things you enjoy. These changes have been proven to be difficult for people for many reasons, therefore it is best to have a multi-disciplinary team that works with you to help make these changes.
Why Does Fibromyalgia Hurt?
There are processes in the body associated with Fibromyalgia that researchers are still trying to figure out. One process is called central sensitization. This is a fancy term for when our nervous system freaks out easily. With this process there are changes to how our nervous systems react to stimulus that generally are not perceived as dangerous. This can range from touch, heat, cold, scents, etc..In some cases, simply poking an area lightly can cause pain, a process called allodynia. Despite this increase in pain being experienced, it is essential to know that damage to the tissues is not occurring.
How Can Physiotherapy Help Fibromyalgia?
At One to One Wellness we focus on health empowerment, meaning we take the time to better understand what is important to you and strive to give you the tools to improve your quality of life. An assessment of your current mobility, strength, and nervous system sensitivity provides us with an idea of what additional movements, activities, resistance training or manual techniques may be beneficial to help you achieve your goals.
It is essential that time be taken to better understand Fibromyalgia and how it is affecting your life. Sessions should include education on helping you understand the symptoms of Fibromyalgia and how they relate to your experience. These education sessions are important as they can help reduce fear of the symptoms and increase confidence in your ability to return to things that you enjoy.
Want to Learn More About Fibromyalgia?
Book a Free 30 minute screening with one of our Physiotherapists to determine what would be an appropriate course of action in helping you manage Fibromyalgia.
