Fibromyalgia comes from term fibro- meaning muscles and connective tissue, and -algia meaning pain. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition due to unknown origin. Patient’s suffering with fibromyalgia offer use prescription pain reliever and muscle relaxers to manage their condition. This can lead to substance abuse and dependence on these medications for pain relief. HealthSource Chiropractic and Progressive Rehab of Portland want to help provide you with pain relief without the side effects of drugs and medications.

Causes:
The cause of fibromylagia is uknown. Different theories including genetic predisposition, psychosomatic (physical pain due to mental distress), abnormal serotonin release (control of sleep pattern, mood, and pain), and abnormal dopaminergic system (control of movement and muscles) exist to explain the disease. No specific cause has been confirmed.

Risk Factors:
Risk factors include repetitive wrist activities such as typing, guitar playing, etc. Causes of increased fluid in the carpel tunnel can be due to pregnancy, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and menopause

Signs and Symptoms:
~ Please see the above diagram

Tests:
Diagnosis is based on palpation of 11/ 18 point on the body.

Treatment:
Treatment ALWAYS begins with conservative pain management at HealthSource of Portland through chiropractic and progressive rehab. Co-treatment is often needed to relieve pain and discomfort. The combination of chiropractic, accupuncture, and other atlernative methods often can help control the pain. Allopathic medications for treatment of pain, muscle tension, serotonin, and dopamenergic abnormalities can also be used.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia. However, patients that maintain a positive attitude and use medications sparingly are able to maintain pain levels at a point where they are not restricted in their lives.