Fibromyalgia

We all have experienced various kinds of pain in our bodies without any definite cause. The generalized term for such pains is ‘Fibromyalgia’. It is characterized by widespread and persistent musculoskeletal pain for more than 3 months, along with other symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, morning stiffness, anxiety, blues, etc. Local areas of tenderness are referred to as ‘trigger points’. The cervical and thoracic areas are affected most often. It is more prevalent amongst women as compared to men. Studies have shown a well-established link between Fibromyalgia and various mental health conditions, but its actual cause remains unknown.

One theory says that all the suppressed emotions are reflected or finds a way out in one way or the other, and Fibromyalgia is one such way. It is your body’s way to release all the stress and tension which was suppressed for a long time. Suppressed anger for a long time can also cause unexplained body pains causing significant distress and discomfort.

There is evidence of prevalence of many mental health issues like depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorders, OCD, PTSD, etc. which sometimes present themselves as unexplainable pains in the body. Studies also show that such frequent Fibromyalgia are associated with negative thought processes or negative self and body image perception and low self-esteem. However, the onset of the psychiatric disorders occurs most often over a year before the onset of Fibromyalgia

Poor sleep cycle also seems to contribute to increased pain sensitivity of the body and also worsens the anxiety, depression or other mental health issues.

On the contrary such long standing, chronic, pains with no apparent cause can lead to anxiety, stress, overthinking and illness related anxiety.

Such persistent Fibromyalgia physical, mental and social well being, affects personal relationship, work and social circles. It also affects the cognitive functions causing ‘Fibro Fog’ which causes difficulty in concentrating, memory and thinking capacity.

Fibromyalgia can be managed by working on the cause (i.e. Mental Health Issue), various therapies, Exercises, stress reduction techniques, medication (like anti-depressants, anti-anxiety, anti-seizure medications), GET Regime, Rehabilitation Programs, Counseling, sleep hygiene, etc.