English 
Pronounced “f-EYE-bro-my-AL-gee-ah”
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia sufferers experience widespread muscle pain and fatigue (feeling tired). People with fibromyalgia have constant pain and tenderness throughout the body, but they look normal. Many find that routine pain medications do not seem to be helpful in reducing the pain.
After conducting lab tests, many doctors find that all test results are normal, and tell the patient “we can’t find a reason for your pain”, which is VERY frustrating. It is a complicated disease of the muscles, blood vessels and nerves, and it is real. Research is still being done to discover its mechanisms. Treatments involve many approaches for good management and recovery.
Symptoms
Widespread pain. The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist.
Fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though they report sleeping for long periods of time. Sleep is often disrupted by pain, and many patients with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.
Cognitive difficulties. A symptom commonly referred to as “fibro fog” impairs the ability to focus, pay attention and concentrate on mental tasks.
Other problems. Many people who have fibromyalgia also may experience depression, headaches, and pain or cramping in the lower abdomen.
Why does it hurt?
Researchers believe repeated nerve stimulation causes the brains of people with fibromyalgia to change.
This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain (neurotransmitters).
In addition, the brain’s pain receptors seem to become more sensitive, meaning they can overreact to pain signals. Gabapentin and other medications have moderate success in improving symptoms.
Dr. Morris treats the brain and nerves to reduce its sensitivity to the signals.
Causes and Related Conditions
Dr. Morris has found that fibromyalgia involves a variety of factors working together.
These include:
- Genetics – fibromyalgia tends to run in families.
- Infections – some illnesses appear to trigger or aggravate fibromyalgia.
- Physical trauma – scars on the surface and deeper areas in the muscles irritate the nearby nerves.
- Central Nervous System/Brain problems.
- Blood circulation problems.
- Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, other immune system sensitivities.
- Vitamin and Mineral deficiencies.
- Psychological problems – from being repeatedly told “I can’t find anything wrong in the tests so there must not be anything wrong with you – your pain is all in your head”.
Recovery of life from the pain and dysfunction of Fibromyalgia is possible with our treatment.
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/basics/symptoms/con-20019243
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia_ff.asp
Dr. Cindy Morris’ clinical experiences
