Fibromyalgia: Is There Help?

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is often described as a chronic condition where the body experiences widespread pain, stiffness, and fatigue. It can affect muscles, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues, leading to discomfort in specific “trigger points.” These areas include the neck, back, shoulders, hips, and knees, but the pain can spread across the entire body.

What causes this condition?

While the exact cause remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to the development of fibromyalgia:

• Genetics: A family history increases the risk
• Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections can trigger fibromyalgia
• Physical trauma: Injury or trauma, such as a car accident, may also lead to the condition
• Stress and emotional trauma: High levels of stress or trauma may act as triggers for fibromyalgia symptoms

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

• Widespread pain: A common feature of fibromyalgia is persistent muscle, ligament, and tendon pain throughout the body. Oftentimes, the pain is described as aching or burning
• Fatigue: People with fibromyalgia frequently report feeling excessively tired, even after a full night’s sleep
• Sleep disturbances: Sleep quality is often poor due to discomfort or difficulty falling and staying asleep
• Cognitive issues: “Fibro fog” is a term used to describe the cognitive impairments, such as memory problems, trouble concentrating, and mental fatigue
• Sensitivity: People with fibromyalgia often have increased sensitivity to touch, light, sound, and temperature

Is there a solution?

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective and non-invasive treatment options for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Unlike other forms of treatment, physiotherapy doesn’t just focus on alleviating symptoms—it also helps individuals develop long-term strategies to better manage their condition.

Fibromyalgia rehabilitation through Physiotherapy focuses on:

1. Pain management strategies

A key component of physiotherapy for fibromyalgia is the reduction of pain through a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities. Physiotherapists often use techniques such as:

• Soft tissue release: Gentle soft-tissue techniques can help release muscle tension and reduce discomfort
• Stretching: Stretching exercises can improve flexibility and prevent muscles from becoming tight and stiff
• Heat therapy: Heat can have a soothing effect, helping the muscles to relax, decrease pain and improving circulation
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): This method uses electrical currents to stimulate the nerves and block pain signals from reaching the brain

Your therapist will teach you strategies that you can use at home and suggest equipment that may help you manage your condition.

2. Improving physical function and mobility

People with fibromyalgia often experience stiffness and limited range of motion due to muscle tightness and pain. Physiotherapists can prescribe specific exercises that target areas of muscle weakness and joint stiffness. Over time, these exercises help improve strength, mobility, and flexibility, leading to better overall function.

• Strengthening exercises: Low-impact strengthening exercises, such as resistance bands or light weights, help increase muscle strength without overloading the body and triggering a flare-up
• Posture correction: Fibromyalgia can cause postural imbalances, which can exacerbate pain. Physiotherapists work on posture and body alignment to help prevent discomfort
• Gentle range of motion: Motion is lotion as physiotherapists like to say! Even without weights, just moving the joints helps to keep them healthy and prevent a loss of mobility

3. Reducing or managing fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most frustrating symptoms of fibromyalgia. A physiotherapist can guide individuals through exercises designed to increase endurance and stamina. Gradual, low-impact aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling can help improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce fatigue, and enhance energy levels.

• Energy conservation techniques: Physiotherapists can teach patients how to pace their activities, break tasks into smaller steps, and take rest breaks to avoid overexertion
• Breathing exercises: Stress and anxiety often accompany fibromyalgia, which can worsen fatigue. As a result, breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing or relaxation exercises can help lower stress and conserve energy

4. Addressing stress and mental health

Mental health plays a significant role in managing fibromyalgia. Chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression, which in turn can exacerbate physical symptoms. Physiotherapists often incorporate mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and guided imagery to reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being. Additionally, many physiotherapists collaborate with psychologists or counselors to provide holistic care for fibromyalgia patients

5. Education and lifestyle modifications

A physiotherapist can provide valuable education on lifestyle modifications that can improve the management of fibromyalgia. This may include:

• Ergonomic advice: Recommendations on setting up your workspace, sleeping position, and everyday movements can reduce strain and minimize flare-ups
• Activity modification: Physiotherapists help patients balance activity with rest to avoid overexertion. They may suggest lighter forms of exercise, such as yoga or tai chi, which can improve flexibility and calm the nervous system
• Self-management tools: Patients can learn how to track their symptoms, manage flare-ups, and identify activities that trigger pain, so they can proactively manage their condition

Looking for help?

Look for PhysioNow! We have an expert care team consisting of Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists, Manual Osteopaths, and Athletic Therapists who are all dedicated to bringing out the best in our patients! We have 10 clinics across the GTA from Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, to Etobicoke to help you get started. Book with PhysioNow today for your first assessment and treatment! If you have any questions, please reach out to us at 289-724-0528.