Fibromyalgia Specialist
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From Pain To Wellness, LLC
Pain Treatment Centers located in Oakbrook Terrace, IL
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects up to 4 million American adults. Without diagnosis and treatment, the symptoms can become debilitating, making it difficult to work, exercise, or spend time with family and friends. At From Pain To Wellness LLC, James Gruft, MD, FAAPMR, DABPM, Stacie Wharton, PA, and the team take a medical and holistic approach in treating fibromyalgia. To schedule an appointment at the practice in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, call to speak with a member of the administrative staff or book online.
Fibromyalgia Q & A
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder characterized by widespread chronic pain, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. Many experts aren’t even entirely sure what causes fibromyalgia, but it’s thought the condition affects the way your brain and spinal cord process nerve signals. We have a deep understanding of the condition and its variants.
Anyone can experience fibromyalgia, but it’s especially common in women who are middle-aged. Certain underlying health problems might also increase your risk, including temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ or TMD), irritable bowel syndrome, and tension headaches.
What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
The symptoms of fibromyalgia fall into three categories:
Chronic pain
People with fibromyalgia often describe the pain as a dull, persistent ache. In addition, the pain affects both sides of the body, including areas above and below the waist.
Fatigue and Insomnia
Many individuals with fibromyalgia struggle to get restful, rejuvenating sleep. Chronic pain can make it difficult to get comfortable, and it increases the risk of other sleep disorders like restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.
Cognitive difficulties
One of the most common side effects of fibromyalgia is “fibro fog.” Though difficult to describe, the sensation impairs your ability to focus, pay attention, or remember.
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
To diagnose fibromyalgia, the team at From Pain To Wellness LLC reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms. Afterward, they conduct a comprehensive physical exam.
To have a fibromyalgia diagnosis, you must experience musculoskeletal pain for three months or longer in four of the following five regions:
Left upper region: Shoulder, arm, or jaw
Right upper region: Shoulder, arm, or jaw
Left lower region: Hip, buttock, leg
Right lower region: Hip, buttock, leg
Axial region: Neck, chest, or abdomen
Depending on your age and symptoms, the team might also order laboratory tests like a complete blood count (CBC), rheumatoid factor, or thyroid function test.
How is fibromyalgia treated?
Treatment of fibromyalgia depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your daily life. Typically, the team at From Pain To Wellness LLC recommends a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, self-care, and comprehensive medication management.
For example, you might benefit from eating a more nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and taking steps to manage your stress.
Some of the medications used to manage fibromyalgia include pain relievers, antidepressants, and antiseizure drugs. The type of medicine that will most benefit you depends on your age, health history, and symptoms. Following a comprehensive exam, the team can make recommendations that align with your needs.
Don’t wait to receive treatment for fibromyalgia at From Pain To Wellness LLC. Call to speak with an administrative staff member or click the online booking tool.
