Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes chronic muscle and joint pain. It can also cause problems with sleep, fatigue, and mental health. Fibromyalgia makes you more sensitive to pain than normal, which is called abnormal pain perception processing. Don’t let chronic pain linger and worsen. Contact our Santa Maria CA clinic to experience lasting relief.

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Fibromyalgia IN Santa Maria CA

Unfortunately, the cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. Some researchers suggest it has to do with brain changes that modify how pain is perceived, while others have found that inflammation can play a role in flare-ups.

Common signs of fibromyalgia include:

  • Pain and stiffness throughout the body
  • Fatigue and tiredness
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Sleep problems
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
  • Headaches, including migraines
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
  • Pain in the face or jaw
  • Digestive problems

Traditionally, fibromyalgia was diagnosed if you had a certain number of tender points on your body. More modern diagnosis methods used at Restorative Spine & Joint involve your medical history, a physical exam, and any necessary imaging to rule out other conditions.

During your consultation, the team asks about your medical history, if you’ve experienced specific injuries or traumatic events, including car accidents and your family medical history to determine if you’re predisposed to developing fibromyalgia. Next, your physical exam includes flexibility and range of motion testing, assessments of your muscle strength and nerve supply, and tolerance to pressure on painful areas.

The team may also perform specific orthopedic exams if you experience pain in your joints or soft tissues, including muscles. These tests can be uncomfortable and may make your pain worse, so let the team know if you’re too uncomfortable. Based on your consultation, exam, and imaging, the team determines your diagnosis.

Treatment of Fibromyalgia

While fibromyalgia can’t be cured, the team can help you reduce your pain and improve your quality of life. Pain relief includes chiropractic care, massage therapy, electrical stimulation, and rehabilitation exercises and stretches.

The team also provides lifestyle counseling, including suggestions for safe, gentle exercises and dietary advice to reduce inflammation. They may also recommend supplements to manage pain and inflammation, including calcium, magnesium, and fish oils.