Fibromyalgia Specialist

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes generalized pain and tenderness of the joints, muscles, and other tissues. This condition is often associated with other chronic diseases, including:

• Chronic pain syndrome

• Chronic fatigue

• Sleep disorders

• Depression and anxiety

• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Headaches and migraines

• Pelvic pain

Surgery, physical injury, or severe stress could trigger your fibromyalgia, though the underlying cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood. It may be caused by hypersensitive nerve responses that cause an increased sensation of pain throughout the body.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

The severity and location of fibromyalgia symptoms may vary over time, at times being less severe than others. The most common complaint with fibromyalgia is diffuse, widespread musculoskeletal pain.

Other symptoms may include:

• Joint swelling, tenderness, or stiffness

• Joint and muscle weakness

• Poor quality sleep

• Chronic tiredness or fatigue

• Mental fogginess

• Difficulty concentrating

• Digestive problems

While symptoms may be inconsistent, they may also get progressively more severe over time.

Am I at risk for fibromyalgia?

Those who may be at the highest risk of having fibromyalgia include middle-aged women, especially those who also have been diagnosed with other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or those with a family history of the disease.

You may also be more susceptible to fibromyalgia if you live a stressful lifestyle, are obese, or have a history of trauma or frequent illness and injury.

As part of your initial consultation, your provider assesses your risk factors for fibromyalgia. If any of these factors apply to you, let them know because this could help them accurately diagnose your symptoms.

What are some treatments for fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is often difficult to treat, as symptoms can be hard to pinpoint and locations may change. That said, the team at Sahni Rheumatology & Therapy works with you to create a plan of care that effectively treats your symptoms.

Treatments may include:

Medical support
Your provider may prescribe pain medications and physical therapy sessions, and may also refer you to a psychotherapist to support a complete treatment program.

Lifestyle changes
The team at Sahni Rheumatology & Therapy works with you to implement helpful lifestyle changes, such as providing weight-loss support, nutritional counseling and supplementation, stress management, and exercise plans.

If you have fibromyalgia, the experts at Sahni Rheumatology & Therapy are committed to developing a treatment plan that works for you. Call to schedule an appointment today.