Fibromyalgia Treatment & Pain Management in Texas
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. At Texas Pain Physicians, we provide specialize fibromyalgia treatment in Texas to help you manage pain, improve function, and enhance your quality of life.
Understanding Fibromyalgia & Its Effects on the Body
Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain all over the body long-term. This condition is often characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain that affects the muscles and soft tissue. It often affects the musculoskeletal system and can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. The pain experienced by those with fibromyalgia is thought to result from the brain processing pain signals more intensely than normal, which can be triggered by factors such as stress, trauma, or infections.
Fibromyalgia treatment is crucial to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. It typically requires a multi-faceted approach involving fibromyalgia pain management, medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Other than widespread pain and discomfort, fibromyalgia can disguise itself in many other symptoms throughout your body such as:
Fatigue: Many people with fibromyalgia complain that they are still tired after a full night’s rest.
Difficulty sleeping
Heightened sensitivity to pain
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): A digestive condition that causes stomach bloating and pain
Muscle stiffness
Fibro-fog: This condition is common for people with fibromyalgia which translates to problems with mental processes like memory or concentration
These symptoms can make it difficult to complete daily tasks and negatively impact quality of life. That’s why it’s important to seek professional fibromyalgia pain relief through a personalized treatment plan developed by a fibromyalgia specialist.
Exploring Causes Behind Chronic Fibromyalgia Pain
Fibromyalgia is one of those conditions in which the exact cause is unknown, but it’s thought to be related to abnormal levels of certain types of chemicals in the brain. This chemical imbalance leads to changes in the way the central nervous system (nerves, spinal cord, and brain) processes pain messages that are carried around the body.
Also, it is believed that some people are more likely to develop fibromyalgia due to genes inherited from their parents. However, in many cases, the condition can be triggered by emotionally or physically stressful events like:
Having an operation
Giving birth
An infection or injury
The death of a loved one or the breakdown of a relationship
How We Diagnose Fibromyalgia AT TEXAS PAIN PHYSICIANS
There are no tests in particular to diagnose this condition, so it can be tricky. Symptoms of fibromyalgia are very similar to symptoms of many other conditions, so the first thing done by your doctor will be ruling out other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and multiple sclerosis. In order to rule these out, your doctor may want to perform certain tests such as:
Blood and urine tests
Physical exams involving flexibility and movement
X-rays and other scans
Certain criteria have to be met in order to correctly diagnose fibromyalgia such as:
Either having mild pain in seven or more areas or having severe pain in 3-6 different areas in the body
Symptoms have stayed constant for at least three months
All other possible conditions have been ruled out
If you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, it is common to be treated for other conditions that go hand-in-hand with the condition such as depression, anxiety, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Effective Fibromyalgia Treatment Options
Your doctor will play a very important role in your treatment, but you may also get help with treatment by other healthcare professionals such as a psychologist (mental health and psychological treatments), neurologist (conditions of the central nervous system), or a rheumatologist (conditions that affect joints and muscles).
Some treatments work for some people, while other treatments work for other people. Most people with fibromyalgia have a treatment plan personalized to their needs. Many treatments include:
01.
Alternative therapies such as massage, aromatherapy, or acupuncture
02.
Medications that can be either OTC or prescribed to you such as paracetamol (for milder pain), codeine or tramadol (which should be taken for short periods of time due to addiction)
03.
Antidepressants: these boost levels of certain chemicals that carry messages to and from the brain (neurotransmitters) that can result in alleviating pain
04.
Muscle relaxers such as diazepam if you are experiencing muscle spasms or stiffness. Muscle relaxers may also help with sleeping problems due to their sedative (sleep-inducing) effects.
Other than medication, your doctor most likely will suggest adopting an exercise plan that will slowly strengthen muscles and relieve tension. A commonly advised exercise is swimming or exercising in a heated pool.
When to See a Doctor for Fibromyalgia?
If you experience chronic pain that does not improve with over-the-counter medications or lifestyle changes, it may be time to see a fibromyalgia specialist. Seek professional care if:
Pain persists for an extended period of time and interferes with your daily activities.
You experience other symptoms such as fatigue, memory problems, or sleep disturbances.
You are unable to manage your symptoms with lifestyle changes or self-care techniques.
Our fibromyalgia specialists can help you understand the cause of your pain and create a personalized plan to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Start Your Treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes fibromyalgia pain?
The exact cause of fibromyalgia pain is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve an abnormal response to pain signals in the nervous system. Stress, trauma, infections, and genetics may contribute to the development of fibromyalgia.
What is the best treatment for fibromyalgia?
The best treatment for fibromyalgia depends on the severity of the condition. Effective treatments often include physical therapy, medications, regenerative treatments like stem cell therapy, and lifestyle changes such as stress management and exercise.
How to relieve fibromyalgia pain naturally?
You can relieve fibromyalgia pain naturally by incorporating low-impact exercise, stress-reducing techniques, and a healthy diet. Regular sleep, gentle stretching, and relaxation practices can also help manage symptoms.
Can stem cell therapy help with fibromyalgia?
Yes, stem cell therapy for fibromyalgia can help by promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the body’s natural healing abilities. This treatment is especially beneficial for patients with chronic pain or degenerative conditions related to fibromyalgia.
When should I see a doctor for fibromyalgia?
If your fibromyalgia symptoms are persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily activities, it's time to consult a fibromyalgia doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What Our Patients Have to Say
Start Your Fibromyalgia Treatment Today
If you’re ready to take control of your fibromyalgia symptoms and find fibromyalgia pain relief, Texas Pain Physicians offers comprehensive treatments tailored to your needs. Our fibromyalgia specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage your pain and improve your well-being.