Find Lasting Fibromyalgia Relief with Physical Therapy
Living with fibromyalgia is a challenge. Both healthcare professionals and the general public often misunderstand this complex chronic pain condition, and it can have lasting impacts on your ability to stay active and maintain functionality. It can also be incredibly difficult to manage. At Dockery & Associates Physical Therapy, our results-oriented approach to physical therapy makes us an excellent choice for fibromyalgia care.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome characterized by several different symptoms, including the following:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain that primarily affects the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs.
- Stiffness, numbness, or tingling in the joints, tendons, or muscles
- Tender spots throughout the body
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
In addition, fibromyalgia often coexists alongside other chronic pain conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, and migraines.
Fibromyalgia is the most common musculoskeletal disorder in the United States, affecting around 4% of the population–mostly women. The onset of fibromyalgia typically occurs between the ages of 30 and 50 but can develop at any age.
Living with fibromyalgia can significantly impair one’s quality of life. The condition’s symptoms can immensely hinder daily activities, from chores to work to spending time with loved ones. Furthermore, fibromyalgia flare ups are often unpredictable, making many with the condition feel frustrated and hopeless.
At Dockery & Associates Physical Therapy, we know you’re frustrated. That’s why our team of experts will focus on helping you see results from your physical therapy treatment. Fibromyalgia might not have a cure, but you can manage your symptoms to live a full, healthy life. Our physical therapists in Madison, AL will show you how.
With customized treatment plans pulled from the latest research, we’ll help you identify triggers, improve your physical function, and take control of your condition.
Call our Madison, AL clinic today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists!
What Causes Fibromyalgia?
One of the most frustrating aspects of fibromyalgia is that it often feels like an unsolvable puzzle. Furthermore, researchers currently don’t have a clear-cut answer for the source of the condition. However, studies have shown some potential causes, including the following:
- Genetics: Genetics likely play a significant role in the development of fibromyalgia, as it often runs in families. Specific gene mutations may make individuals more susceptible to the condition, affecting how their nervous system processes pain.
- Infections and illnesses: Certain viral or bacterial infections can trigger fibromyalgia or worsen symptoms. The immune system’s response to infection may increase inflammation and widespread pain.
- Physical or emotional trauma: Traumatic events, such as accidents or emotional upheavals, can contribute to the onset of fibromyalgia. These events may cause long-lasting changes in the brain’s pain-processing pathways, leading to heightened sensitivity and chronic pain.
- Hormonal imbalances: Abnormal levels of hormones, such as cortisol and serotonin, may contribute to fibromyalgia symptoms. These imbalances can affect mood, sleep, and the body’s ability to cope with stress.
- Sleep disturbances: Poor sleep quality or sleep disorders like sleep apnea can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms. Restorative sleep is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Regardless of what may be causing your fibromyalgia, our physical therapists will help you find the right combination of approaches to manage your symptoms. We’ll consider possible causes of your condition as we develop your personalized treatment, along with other factors like your ability levels, medical history, and interests.
Physical therapy is a powerful tool in managing fibromyalgia. Request an appointment at Dockery & Associates Physical Therapy in Madison, AL today to get started!
How our physical therapists will help you find relief
We’ll begin your treatment with a comprehensive review of your exact symptoms and medical history. This is not a quick overview but an extensive examination of your condition. You can expect it to take anywhere from one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes.
Why? Because treating fibromyalgia requires a whole-picture approach. In addition to medical basics, we’ll consider diet, activity level, and history of injuries, ensuring we have a complete picture of your overall health and any contributing factors.
We’ll also perform a hands-on physical assessment focused on gentle testing of muscle strength, joint mobility, and tender areas. This physical assessment allows us to identify any imbalances or restrictions that may exacerbate your fibromyalgia symptoms.
Once we completely understand symptoms, medical history, and other potential factors, our team will develop a customized fibromyalgia treatment plan built around your needs. Plans will vary from person to person, but you can expect us to use one or more of the following techniques:
- Targeted mobility work: One of the main components of your program will include gentle exercises and stretches designed to improve tissue flexibility and overall mobility. Gentle movement can alleviate fibromyalgia pain and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release address tender points, reduce muscle tension, and improve joint mobility, contributing to overall pain relief.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy can help patients manage their symptoms by altering their thought patterns and behaviors related to pain and stress.
- Patient education and other lifestyle recommendations: Besides your in-clinic treatment, we’ll help you develop a plan for managing your condition in the real world. We can provide information on proper body mechanics, nutrition, rest and recovery strategies, and stress management techniques.
Our physical therapists want to help you find a fibromyalgia management plan that works. If one treatment isn’t proving effective, we’ll try another. Our results-based approach to physical therapy will help you find the relief you need.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!