Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain which is often accompanied by fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and cognitive function. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia increases painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals. Repeated nerve stimulation may cause abnormal increase in the levels of certain chemicals in your brain that signal pain (neurotransmitters). Your brain’s pain receptors may then develop a memory of the pain and become more sensitive, overreacting to pain signals.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia may begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or increased psychological stress, with autoimmune disorders; or may begin gradually over time with no single triggering event. Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than are men. Many people who have fibromyalgia also have tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression.

The pain associated with fibromyalgia is often described as a constant dull ache that lasts for at least three months. Pain is widespread and occurs on both sides of your body both above and below your waist. Fibromyalgia often results in fatigue and sleep may or may not be disrupted by pain.  Many people with fibromyalgia have other sleep disorders, such as restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea.  Another symptom commonly referred to as “fibro fog” impairs your ability to stayed focused, pay attention or concentrate on mental tasks.

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia; exercise, manual therapy, myofascial release and stress reduction can help control your symptoms.  At Balance Solutions you will be evaluated by a skilled licensed physical therapist to determine factors contributing to your condition such as; range of motion, muscle strength, joint mechanics & mobility, soft tissue mobility, postural alignment, abnormalities in movement patterns, and body mechanics.  Following a thorough evaluation, a personalized plan of care with goals will be constructed specifically to meet your individual needs.

Our therapists specialize in many different aspects of physical therapy; working together to maximize functional gains for our patients. Balance Solutions believes in providing continual opportunities for professional growth and educational advancement.

Our therapists are trained in-house and participate in regularly scheduled in-services training as well as hands-on continuing educational courses to advance their knowledge and skills. Our staff trains as a team, all therapists can perform similar techniques with slightly different styles to accommodate the many types of patients seen at Balance Solutions. We practice what we teach, several of our therapists travel the country teaching these methods to other therapists and facilities.