Fibromyalgia Management: An Introduction

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, general fatigue, soft tissue tenderness, and sleeping problems. The most affected areas include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvis, and hands. Patients suffering from fibromyalgia also experience a range of symptoms of varying intensities that increase and wane over time.

While the underlying causes of fibromyalgia still remain a mystery, new studies continue to bring information on the basic mechanisms of the disorder. Most researchers agree that fibromyalgia is a disorder of the central nervous system with neuro-endocrine and neurotransmitter dysfunction. Neurotransmitters of pain are in abundance while those that increase pain tolerance become dangerously low to be able to stave off the onset of pain.

Due to the variation of its symptoms, managing fibromyalgia requires a multidisciplinary approach. Physical rehabilitation and therapy, pain medications, and treatment for underlying injuries and illnesses are often prescribed for patients suffering from the disorder. Since chronic pain can also induce depression, psychological counseling and guidance are also recommended. The use of prescription medication, both for the chronic pain and psychological problems must also be strictly supervised since using them without a proper prescription can cause untoward side effects.

TENS Therapy For Pain Management

How does one deal with chronic pain? Aside from taking pain-killers, having a positive outlook in life greatly helps a person cope with chronic pain and manage a life of pain. Studies have shown that those who learn pain management skills were able to reduce the levels of pain they experience.

Pain management experts also offer complementary therapies that provide relief minus the risk of side effects. These include massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Therapy.

Among the complementary therapies mentioned, TENS seems to be the least discussed. It is a passive, non-invasive, and non-addictive treatment that helps to reduce perception of pain without any proven side effects. It comes in a portable, battery-operated unit that can be strapped around the waist. A physical therapist administers the electrode patches in the area to be treated. The painless electrical current runs from the portable stimulator through these patches. The generated heat helps to relieve pain, stiffness, and improve mobility. It is also said to stimulate endorphin production, the body's natural painkillers.

However, TENS is not recommended for patients with pacemaker as the electrical current may interfere with the pacemaker function. Medical Consultation is done real-time through our advanced medical portal which provides clients with electronic medical records and the technology to connect our members to our doctors instantly.

Author: Ramon Bravante