What is Fibromyalgia?

One of the most debilitating and multifaceted conditions to discuss is Fibromyalgia. Clinical studies and doctors alike are still at odds on determining specifically what causes Fibromyalgia (FM) in the human body. According to Web MD, some doctors believe that FM is a problem with how the brain and spinal cord interprets pain signals from nerves.

Many doctors believe that people with a genetic precedence of FM, or those having family members who have the condition are more likely to develop it themselves. Women are also more likely than men to have FM,  statistically speaking. It has also been noted that those with anxiety and depression and those who rarely exercise are more at odds to develop FM.  (Web MD)

What are the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

There are several conditions that patients experience with Fibromyalgia, in general it is an aching and burning pain throughout the body. WebMD narrows the scope of symptoms by explaining specifically the experience of muscle pain, burning, twitching, experiencing lower pain thresholds, having tender points, “pins and needles” sensations in the extremities, extreme fatigue, problems focusing, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Needless to say this is not a fun condition to have and living with FM can be extremely challenging and frustrating. Because the symptoms are so widespread it can be rather difficult to pinpoint FM. Thankfully it can be treated. (WebMD)

Can Fibromyalgia be diagnosed?

There are however new diagnostic testing options physicians are using to confirm this debilitating condition. One of these options is the Intellewave device. This device analyzes the eight most common risk factors in patients and also hones in on certain dysfunctions in the autonomic nervous system, pinpointing certain abnormalities between sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, also known as the body’s fight or flight responses. Another equipment piece that can help confirm FM in patients is the Neurofeedback System. This system uses quantitative EEG or QEEG to analyze neural activity in patients, specifically dysregulated wave patterns within the brain that may provide a “tell” towards confirming FM. This system also diagnoses anxiety, depression, and insomnia, active symptoms in FM as mentioned above.  Overall these equipment platforms help make confirming the diagnosis easier and more accurate for patients. However, confirming a diagnosis and treating the condition are two completely different things.

Resources:

WebMD – What is Fibromyalgia: https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/what-is-fibromyalgia

Healthline FM Treatments 13 ways to alleviate pain: https://www.healthline.com/health/fibromyalgia-treatments-for-pain