Fibromyalgia (FM) is a rheumatic autoimmune syndrome that is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, and an array of other symptoms. The symptoms may vary from day to day, ranging from moderate discomfort to severe disability.
The symptoms can include, but are not limited to:
- Cognitive and memory problems (sometimes referred to as “fibro fog”)
- Sleep disturbances
- Morning stiffness
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Painful menstrual periods
- Numbness or tingling of the extremities
- Restless legs syndrome
- Temperature sensitivity
- Sensitivity to loud noises or bright lights
It is not uncommon for a person to have two or more coexisting chronic health conditions. Such conditions can include chronic fatigue syndrome, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease, eczema, rosacea, interstitial cystitis, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, vulvodynia, among others. It is now understood that these disorders often share a common root cause.
We at Palmetto Physical Medicine believe that the treatment of Fibromyalgia is not a “disease specific”, but a “patient specific” issue. Although two individuals may present with exactly the same symptoms, there may be two completely different causes. So our goal is not to find a magic bullet to treat the condition, but to examine the individual, find out what exactly is driving their symptoms, and treat them with a personalized solution.
The most important thing to consider when searching for the solution to Fibromyalgia or any other chronic illness, is the fact that there are a variety of influences that are most likely contributing to the condition. Searching for the cause is of primary importance in determining the course of action that each person must to take to get well. Diet, food selection, gut integrity, adrenal function, and metabolic support are the first areas to consider.
Heavy metals, thyroid, bacterial/parasitic infection and hormonal imbalances as well as intestnal integrity are significant clues that could be disrupting the whole process of cellular metabolism as it relates to lactate build up, energy production, and fatigue.
In order to truly find the cause of someone’s Fibromyalgia condition, a thorough investigation must take place. This begins with a comprehensive history and physical examination. A review of medical records can also be extremely helpful. Proper lab testing will help to determine which interventions are likely to be most effective for each patient. The following are lab tests that we strongly recommend:
- Comprehensive Blood Profile
- Intestinal Barrier Function Test
- Adrenal Stress Profile
- Comprehensive Thyroid Profile
- Comprehensive Stool Analysis
Solution to Fibromyalgia
Finding the solution to your Fibromyalgia problem may not be easy, but it is possible. We at Palmetto Physical Medicine can help you identify the root cause of your issue and develop a plan achieve optimal health. Every day, people like you find the true cause of their condition, and make the necessary changes to heal.
Call Palmetto Physical Medicine today at 864-437-8930 to schedule an appointment.