What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia causes extensive musculoskeletal pain alongside prolonged problems with sleep, memory, fatigue, and mood. Women are more likely than men to develop the condition.

With the tremendous strain placed on the body, those with fibromyalgia often experience temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, tension headaches, anxiety, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Fortunately, the RapidRecovery TMS team provides thorough, attentive evaluations and personalized care.

What causes fibromyalgia?

While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, experts believe the condition is due to repeated nerve stimulation changing the function of the brain and spinal cord. This results in abnormal increases in pain-signaling brain chemicals.

Consequently, the brain becomes more receptive and sensitive to signals, making them overreact to painful (and even nonpainful) stimulation.

Am I at risk for fibromyalgia?

Many factors may play a role in whether someone develops fibromyalgia, with the primary ones being:


Genetics

Fibromyalgia often runs in families, implying there is a genetic component that puts individuals at greater risk.


Physical or emotional events

A traumatic event, such as an accident, can also trigger the condition. While an accident might be something physical, such as a car collision, fibromyalgia may also get triggered by unrelenting psychological stress.


Infections

Some illnesses may aggravate fibromyalgia. These include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

During fibromyalgia treatment, the team at RapidRecovery TMS aims to minimize your symptoms and improve your overall health. Your personalized treatment plan may include medications and self-care, and you can expect to spend a little time tweaking your plan to serve your needs.


Medications

Your provider may recommend pain relievers, antidepressants, and, in some cases, anti-seizure medications to ease your fibromyalgia symptoms. Your provider does not recommend opioids because they have significant side effects and cause dependence. 


Therapies

Physical and occupational therapy can help improve your strength, stamina, and flexibility, reducing your body’s stress and performing daily tasks more comfortably.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has proven to ease some of the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia.


Talk therapy

Psychotherapy can assist you in working through the stress and grief that accompany chronic pain, prepare you for challenges, and help you recognize your tremendous strength.

For more information about treatments available for fibromyalgia, contact the RapidRecovery TMS office or book your appointment online today.