23 Jul Do You Suffer From Fibromyalgia? How PT Can Help

Fibromyalgia: over 5 million people in the U.S. alone are living with it, and yet many people don’t understand what it is, or if it really even exists! Although it may seem mysterious, fibromyalgia is a real disorder.  It causes pain; and fibromyalgia definitely isn’t imaginary for the millions who experience it. If you’ve ever wondered what fibromyalgia is, what its symptoms are, and what you can do about it – you’ve come to the right place.

Fibromyalgia: this chronic condition affects more women than men, causes pain and fatigue, and is often hard to diagnose. Although it’s not considered an autoimmune disorder, it’s often seen in those who have autoimmune disorders. Other triggers include: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, trauma, infection, surgery, or eve major emotional stress.

Symptoms Include:

• Widespread pain
  
• Muscle stiffness
  
• Fatigue
• Sleep disorders
  
• Depression
  
• Numbness/tingling
  
• IBS
  
• Abdominal or pelvic cramping 

Managing your fibromyalgia can be frustrating and overwhelming; chronic pain presents many  challenges. Pain medication can sometimes be helpful for this condition; however, the medication comes with many risks. Physical Therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment option that has been recommended by the CDC. PT is a safe alternative to painkillers and can help reduce chronic pain. It can also help treat many of the underlying issues that come along with fibromyalgia.

You won’t be the first client your Physical Therapist has seen who has a condition that isn’t “curable” – and you won’t be the last. One thing that you should remember is that, although PT  may not cure your disorder, almost all PT patients see improvement in some or all areas of their condition. Your fibromyalgia may be a chronic condition, but it can likely improve with the help of your Physical Therapist. 

Fibromyalgia presents differently in each patient; you may experience some or all of these symptoms. You can expect your Physical Therapist will be familiar with both your condition, as well as the best way to help your individual needs after performing a thorough assessment. PT can help you reduce or manage pain, maintain and improve mobility, and improve range-of-motion problems that are common in fibromyalgia.

If you have fibromyalgia, chronic pain, or other pain/problems of the musculoskeletal system, Body One Physical Therapy is ready to help get you moving and feeling like yourself again. We’re locally-owned and operated, with three locations serving Central Indiana: North Indy/Carmel, Fishers, and Zionsville. Pain can make you miserable, but you don’t have to agree to stay there. Partner with the experts at Body One to take your health back. Call or request an appointment today!