Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can be difficult to navigate. The experience of fibromyalgia is characterized by pain and weakness throughout the body. When you have fibromyalgia, you may experience these symptoms without any apparent cause. Occasional weakness or pain is normal. Many people experience sporadic aches that come and go without any major impact. Fatigue and weakness are also common, especially after a heavy workout. However, experiencing these symptoms constantly could be a sign of a larger issue.
The persistent symptoms of fibromyalgia lead some to consider it a disability. Symptoms ranging from widespread pain to sleep disturbances can make your daily activities more difficult. While the symptoms of fibromyalgia present a unique challenge, it is not typically designated as a disability. There are many reasons for this, including the invisible nature of the symptoms. Fibromyalgia is often referred to as a cluster of symptoms rather than a disease or disability. This is because there is no known cause behind the symptoms. Due to the more subjective nature of the symptoms, health care providers must rely on each patient’s report of their own condition to develop personalized treatment. For people with fibromyalgia, traditional physical assessments might be less productive. Fortunately, there is hope. While there is no known cure, the individual symptoms of fibromyalgia can still be addressed. Physical therapy can be an excellent option for effective fibromyalgia treatment.
How physical therapy can help treat fibromyalgia
- Pain management — Pain is one of the core symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. For some people the pain is persistent. For others, painful sensations come in waves. When looking to manage fibromyalgia pain, many people try to avoid medication. Because of the condition’s unique status, pain medications may not always show results. Medications can also come with potentially harmful side effects. With physical therapy, you can work to manage your pain without medication. One of the top physical therapy methods for pain relief is manual therapy. By applying specialized manual therapy techniques, your physical therapist can help alleviate pain and muscle tension. Targeted exercises are another way you can work toward lasting pain relief.
- Better rest — Fibromyalgia often causes a loss or disturbance of sleep. The discomfort associated with this condition can make it more difficult to get the rest you need. Many people with fibromyalgia experience insomnia and disruptions while sleeping. Losing sleep can contribute to the fatigue, weakness and mental fog that can be symptoms of fibromyalgia. These symptoms can reduce your ability to complete regular daily tasks. This is part of why some people refer to fibromyalgia as a disability. Your physical therapist can help educate you on new relaxation techniques. By keeping your body relaxed, you can stay more well rested. Pain management techniques can also play a crucial role in helping you get enough sleep. Staying rested is key to building energy as you work to manage your symptoms.
- Improved physical function — Many people with fibromyalgia find it difficult to participate in daily activities. These can range from work responsibilities to social outings. In severe cases, fibromyalgia can lower your body’s capacity to function. You may feel unable to engage your muscles due to fatigue, aching and stiffness. The loss of physical capabilities is another reason some consider fibromyalgia to be a disability. Though fibromyalgia is not necessarily a disability in the traditional sense, it can have a major impact on your physical abilities. Physical therapy treatment plans are designed to increase functional capacity. With the right care, you can work to make your daily activities easier to perform. Gait and posture training can be highly beneficial for this purpose. Improving your functional capacity through various means can help you stay active as you manage your condition.
- Increased energy — Energy levels feeling low? Physical therapy can be helpful. Your physical therapist can guide you through energy conservation techniques. Learning to manage your energy more effectively can help you save stamina for important activities. Conditioning exercises can also be helpful by improving your cardiovascular health. Empowering your cardiovascular system can raise your energy levels, reducing the fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
- Cognitive support — Fibromyalgia symptoms are not all purely physical. For many people, fibromyalgia causes mental stress and makes concentrating difficult. You may even have trouble remembering things. Some consider fibromyalgia to be a disability that affects an individual’s mental and physical condition. The holistic approach of physical therapy is meant to improve both mind and body. Concentration and relaxation techniques can be tailored to your specific situation. Your physical therapist can offer support and help empower you to more effectively manage your mental stress levels.
Border Therapy Services can help address your fibromyalgia
While fibromyalgia may not always be categorized as a disability, it can significantly affect an individual’s life. If you are experiencing the symptoms of fibromyalgia, seeking care is important. Border Therapy Services can help. With a wide variety of physical therapy techniques available, we can work to alleviate your symptoms and help you find comfort.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.