Overview

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is classified as a chronic pain condition rather than a disease. Pain is its main feature along with increased central nervous system activation with a heightened sensitivity to noise, light, touch and aromas. It is more common in women than men and generally develops later in life. While there is no cure, there are many pain management options including prolotherapy.

Signs of Fibromyalgia

  • Tender muscles and joints
  • Headaches
  • Fitful sleep
  • Agitated bowels
  • Hypersensitivity to stimuli
  • Anxiety
  • Tiredness

Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

A guideline for diagnosis has been produced by the American College of Rheumatology that requires an examination of a three-month record of a patient experiencing Fibromyalgia symptoms. In addition to this, the patient must be able to pinpoint at least eleven body parts that are significantly painful or tender. If a patient does not meet these requirements, the physician may test and diagnose a related condition known as Myofascial Pain Syndrome. The symptoms of this condition are similar to Fibromyalgia yet different treatments may be required.

Many patients are misdiagnosed before learning they have fibromyalgia. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known, though family history, past trauma, and neurological disorders may be related to developing the condition.

Treating Fibromyalgia “Tender Points”

There are 18 “tender points” where patients with fibromyalgia experience pain when touched. Divided into pairs, these points are used to provide an accurate diagnosis. These are the main points:

  • Back of the head
  • Front and back of the neck
  • Shoulders
  • Chest
  • Lower back
  • Elbow
  • Hips
  • Inner knees

Common, effective treatments include:

  • Muscle relaxers
  • Sleep aids
  • Antidepressants
  • Psychotropic medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Acupuncture
  • Non-surgical ligament, muscle and tendon injections
  • Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy for Fibromyalgia Pain Management

We have treated many patients with Fibromyalgia and their conditions have significantly improved after courses of treatment. Fibromyalgia can weaken ligaments, leading to instability and injections can strengthen these ligaments and encourage healthy growth. Call the Neurology and Pain Treatment Center to see how we can help you.

Contact our Milwaukee Neurology and Pain Treatment online to find out how we can help or call us at 414-453-7780.

Prolotherapy… You’re Best Option

Your Best Alternative to Surgery and Best Option to Eliminate Your Pain.