Fibromyalgia

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How is Fibromyalgia Treated?

The good news is that there is help and success in the treatment of Fibromyalgia. My philosophy is to utilize a comprehensive approach to the problem. A mind-spirit approach, coupled with sound scientific knowledge, formulates the protocol I use in treating my patients. A customized regimen of nutrition, vitamins, supplements, food allergy testing, stress management and an individualized exercise program are all crucial. Because we are an integrative medicine center, we bring the knowledge of a number of different treatment modalities in our search for success. Massage, Cranio-Sacral Therapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture and psychotherapy are all tools that can be utilized, when necessary, to achieve the desired results. Prescription medications are utilized carefully and only absolutely necessary.

Fibromyalgia is a complicated issue. Each patient is different. We spend a great deal of time getting to know the patient in order to develop a plan that offers the best program for the journey back to good health. We are very encouraged from those people who have found this path to wellness through our efforts.

The Plymouth Integrative Medicine Center is nationally recognized for our efforts in the treatment of Fibromyalgia. Our patients who are living happy and healthy lives are a constant source of satisfaction for the labor we do. For us, this is, indeed, a labor of love.

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Tel: 1 (734) 432-1900

What is Fibromyalgia?

Widespread pain. Fatigue. Tender points. These are just some of the realities that people with Fibromyalgia live with each day. The American College of Rheumatology estimates up to six million Americans are affected by Fibromyalgia. For each male who suffers from FMS, ten females will have it. This disorder is problematic for many physicians because there are no specific tests to definitively diagnose it. A great deal of time is necessary to properly evaluate and correctly identify this multi-symptomatic condition. It is difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms can be mistaken for other problems unrelated to FMS.
Perhaps this is why so many cases are misdiagnosed leaving the patient searching from doctor to doctor trying to find help. The generally accepted criteria for diagnosing Fibromyalgia is widespread pain in combination with tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific tender point sites for more than three months.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

While the cause of Fibromyalgia is not known, there are theories about its cause. Whatever the actual cause, we do know that there are triggers that unleash the symptoms. These triggers may be physical or psychological in nature. Other evidence suggest infectious agents may trigger the syndrome in susceptible people. We already know that half of all female children of a mother with FMS will, most likely, also have it.

What Are The Symptoms of FMS?

Changes in muscle metabolism may be associated with FMS, causing fatigue and decreased strength. When many symptoms are present simultaneously, this can further complicate the issue creating a downward spiral that exacerbates the issue further with anxiety, depression, insomnia and a lower pain threshold. Moreover, everything from memory and concentration difficulties, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, irritable bladder, swelling sensation of hands and cold sensitivity are not uncommon. Also, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ, allergies, leaky gut syndrome, hypothyroidism, amino acid and vitamin deficiencies and low levels of serotonin only add to the myriad of symptoms that commonly are manifested in the patient with FMS. It is critical that the cycle of symptoms be interrupted to facilitate improvement.

Plymouth Integrative Medicine Center · 36650 Five Mile Road, Suite 100 · Livonia, Michigan, 48154