A fibromyalgia diagnosis is scary because little is still known about this mysterious disease. With no available cure, physicians and researchers have created conservative ways to manage painful symptoms, allowing patients to live normal lives. While clinical management of fibromyalgia is difficult, a multidisciplinary approach to treatment is ideal, as different healthcare providers can lend a hand in caring for suffering patients.
Nonpharmacological treatments for fibromyalgia include massage, psychological therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation therapy, and physical activity. Common fibromyalgia symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and fatigue, can all be targeted with light physical activity and a little motivation.
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, we care for a lot of patients who suffer from fibromyalgia. This widespread chronic pain condition involves multiple tender points, which physical fitness can address. Based on an evaluation of a patient’s medical history and physical symptoms, a Southwest Spine and Pain physician can determine if physical activity is beneficial and which other therapies can be applied to relieve pain. With four locations across Utah, Southwest Spine and Pain Center is a leader in pain management.
Approximately 4 percent of the American population suffers with fibromyalgia, affecting more women than men. Possible risk factors and causes of this condition include genetics, gender, age, sleep disorders, and some rheumatic diseases. After evaluating a patient’s physical and mental needs, a treatment plan is designed.
Physical activity involves the movement of skeletal muscles in aerobic exercise, strength training, or flexibility training. At Southwest Spine and Pain, we typically recommend patients do at least 30 minutes of some physical activity whether it be lifestyle physical activity, walking, or even using the stairs instead of the elevator. Other physical activities that are used in fibromyalgia management are mind-body therapies including tai chi and yoga.
Since summer is quickly approaching, chronic pain patients might take this opportunity to take their physical fitness outside. Pool-based exercises are great for managing fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Patients are encouraged to take to walking, jumping, and swimming exercises in the pool. Buoyance masks painful symptoms, allowing patients to engage in more activity than they could on land.
Before introducing any new exercises in your treatment, talk to your Southwest Spine and Pain physician. Some exercises may not be safe and have negative affects on your pain treatment. If you suffer from fibromyalgia or any mysterious chronic pain, trust the professionals at Southwest Spine and Pain to help.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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