Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), is a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body, along with a host of other symptoms. Research suggests that an estimated 1 in 20 people may be affected by FMS to some degree and it typically affects women more than men.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia:

· Widespread pain

· Increased sensitivity to pain

· Extreme tiredness (fatigue)

· Brain fog / Fibro fog - memory and concentration problems

· Muscle stiffness

· Sleeping difficulties

· Headaches

· Digestive issues (such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS))

Everyone who suffers from FMS experiences it differently, and may have different triggers and symptoms of varying severity. There can be so much uncertainty that comes with FMS, and you might not know when you might ‘flare’ or have a ‘good’ day.

The important thing to understand is that the symptoms and pain are very real. All pain is created in the brain as a response to a perceived threat. The exact cause of FMS is still not yet known. However, there are theories that this may be an overactive nervous system responding to a benign stimuli as if it were dangerous, in an attempt to protect you.

Osteopathy is proven to be an effective addition to ‘standard medical care’ in the management of Fibromyalgia. As every person experiences FMS differently, their treatment will be tailored to their individual needs. For more information on Osteopathic treatment please see Osteopathy and for a more a gentle approach please see Cranial Osteopathy.