Non-Surgical Fibromyalgia Treatment
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder affecting millions of adults. One major symptom of fibromyalgia is constant joint pain and swelling. There is no known cure for this condition but there are treatment options for Milwaukee area patients. Dr. Pollack of Neurology & Pain Treatment offers prolotherapy, neural therapy, and other non-surgical alternatives to relieve pain from fibromyalgia.
Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia Symptoms
There are several tests required to diagnose fibromyalgia. The most frequent symptoms include:
- Chronic pain all over
- Swollen joints
- Achiness
- Stiffness
- Sleep trouble
- Depression and anxiety
Fibromyalgia causes pain in several areas of the body known as “tender points”. Simply touching these spots can lead to intense pain:
- Crown of the head
- Neck
- Chest
- Elbow joints
- Hips
- Inner knees
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known. Family history, past trauma, and neurological disorders may contribute to the development of this condition.
Fibromyalgia in Men
Men are less likely than women to be diagnosed fibromyalgia. As a result, some men believe they cannot get the disorder. They may be more likely to receive a misdiagnosis or not seek treatment.
Fibromyalgia in Women
The majority of fibromyalgia patients are women. It is not clear why women are more likely to develop this condition. Higher estrogen levels usually mean women experience more painful sensations from fibromyalgia, possibly contributing to an earlier diagnosis. Menstrual and menopausal symptoms may be more severe for women with fibromyalgia.
Conditions Related to Fibromyalgia
Many patients with fibromyalgia also have additional disorders which can complicate diagnosis. These include:
- Arthritis
- Depression
- Lupus
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
- Graves’ Disease
- Headaches and Migraines
Stress, hormones, and even the weather can cause flare ups of fibromyalgia symptoms. Consuming caffeine and sugar can make symptoms worse.
Fibromyalgia Pain Management
Neurology & Pain Treatment of Milwaukee offers non-surgical fibromyalgia treatment. Prolotherapy is a non-cortisone injection therapy which encourages natural healing.