What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome or disorder characterised by widespread and chronic muscle and soft tissue pain. Symptoms can also include painful trigger points, fatigue, depression and sleeping disorders.
Some researchers believe that the condition intensifies the patient’s perception of pain by affecting the way their brain processes pain signals.
Doctors don’t know what causes Fibromyalgia but it is believed that a combination of several factors, including genetics, hormonal disturbances, infections and physical or emotional trauma, may be at the root of the condition. In some patients, symptoms start after a traumatic experience, surgery or an illness. In others, symptoms build up gradually over time without a notable episode to explain the pain.
DID YOU KNOW? “Fibromyalgia means pain (algia) coming from the muscles (my) and fibrous tissues (fibro) such as tendons and ligaments.” From patient.co.uk
Risk Factors
Women are more likely to develop Fibromyalgia than men.
Those who often experience anxiety, depression, tension headaches or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to develop Fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia can run in families and can therefore be ‘inherited’.
Hormonal changes may put you at risk for developing Fibromyalgia.
Surgery, trauma to the brain or rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can put you at risk.
Treatment
Often a multidisciplinary approach (including medication, anti-depressants, lifestyle changes and complementary or alternative care) towards treating Fibromyalgia works best.
Medications – a variety of medications (pain relievers and anti-depressants) may control symptoms (pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression) of Fibromyalgia. Your doctor will advise you accordingly.
MYO2 Recovery Gel – most patients with Fibromyalgia have constant, widespread muscle pain. Massaging painful areas with MYO2 may relax your muscles and improve your range of motion in joints, helping with morning stiffness, for example.
Alternative or complementary therapies such as chiropractic, acupuncture and massage, may help ease symptoms allowing patients to cope with everyday tasks.
Exercise – experts agree that while many patients with Fibromyalgia avoid exercising for fear of worsening their pain, regular exercise can actually help relieve pain and depression. It is well-known that exercise increases your body’s production of ‘feel-good’ endorphins – natural painkillers. A gradual approach to gentle exercise is key. Try walking, swimming, cycling or yoga.
Chat to your medical professional about a specific exercise programme, tailored for your needs. Consider applying MYO2 before training, so as to assist muscles during exercise, and after training as part of your post-exercise routine, allowing for a more effective recovery. MYO2 will help increase blood flow (oxygen) to the muscles, also encouraging the spread of nutrients and the transportation of waste from the tissue.
MYO2 can also be used up to 5 times daily in painful areas, between exercise sessions, offering some relief from the day to day pains associated with Fibromyalgia.
Try to limit your stress – practice relaxation techniques such as deep-breathing.
Managing the symptoms of Fibromyalgia yourself is critical in maintaining a relatively normal lifestyle. If one method of treatment doesn’t work, don’t give up – there are several other options available for you to try.
