Find Lasting Fibromyalgia Relief with Physiotherapy
Living with fibromyalgia is a challenge. Both healthcare professionals and the general public often misunderstand this complex chronic pain condition, and it can have lasting impacts on your ability to stay active and maintain functionality. It can also be incredibly difficult to manage. At Evidence Sport and Spine in North Calgary and South Calgary, AB, our results-oriented approach to physiotherapy makes us an excellent choice for fibromyalgia care.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome characterized by several different symptoms, including the following:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain that primarily affects the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs.
- Stiffness, numbness, or tingling in the joints, tendons, or muscles
- Tender spots throughout the body
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
In addition, fibromyalgia often coexists alongside other chronic pain conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, and migraines.
Fibromyalgia is the most common musculoskeletal disorder in Canada, affecting around 4% of the population – mostly women. The onset of fibromyalgia typically occurs between the ages of 30 and 50 but can develop at any age.
Living with fibromyalgia can significantly impair one’s quality of life. The condition’s symptoms can immensely hinder daily activities, from chores to work to spending time with loved ones. Furthermore, fibromyalgia flare ups are often unpredictable, making many with the condition feel frustrated and hopeless.
At Evidence Sport and Spine, we know you’re frustrated. That’s why our team of experts will focus on helping you see results from your physiotherapy treatments. Fibromyalgia might not have a cure, but you can manage your symptoms to live a full, healthy life. Our physiotherapists will show you how.
With customized treatment plans pulled from the latest research, we’ll help you identify triggers, improve your physical function, and take control of your condition.
Call our North Calgary or South Calgary, AB clinic today at (403) 455-0025 to schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians!
What Causes Fibromyalgia?
One of the most frustrating aspects of fibromyalgia is that it often feels like an unsolvable puzzle. Furthermore, researchers currently don’t have a clear-cut answer for the source of the condition. However, studies have shown some potential causes, including the following:
Genetics
Genetics likely play a significant role in the development of fibromyalgia, as it often runs in families. Specific gene mutations may make individuals more susceptible to the condition, affecting how their nervous system processes pain.
Infections and illnesses
Certain viral or bacterial infections can trigger fibromyalgia or worsen symptoms. The immune system’s response to infection may increase inflammation and widespread pain.
Physical or emotional trauma
Traumatic events, such as accidents or emotional upheavals, can contribute to the onset of fibromyalgia. These events may cause long-lasting changes in the brain’s pain-processing pathways, leading to heightened sensitivity and chronic pain.
Hormonal imbalances
Abnormal levels of hormones, such as cortisol and serotonin, may contribute to fibromyalgia symptoms. These imbalances can affect mood, sleep, and the body’s ability to cope with stress.
Sleep disturbances
Poor sleep quality or sleep disorders like sleep apnea can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms. Restorative sleep is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Regardless of what may be causing your fibromyalgia, our physiotherapists will help you find the right combination of approaches to manage your symptoms. We’ll consider possible causes of your condition as we develop your personalized treatment, along with other factors like your ability levels, medical history, and interests.
Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are powerful tools in managing fibromyalgia.
Book an appointment at Evidence Sport and Spine in North Calgary or South Calgary, AB today to get started!
How our physiotherapists will help you find relief
We’ll begin your treatment with a comprehensive review of your exact symptoms and medical history. This is not a quick overview but an extensive examination of your condition. You can expect it to take approximately one hour.
Why? Because treating fibromyalgia requires a whole-picture approach. In addition to medical basics, we’ll consider diet, activity level, and history of injuries, ensuring we have a complete picture of your overall health and any contributing factors.
We’ll also perform a hands-on physical assessment focused on gentle testing of muscle strength, joint mobility, and tender areas. This physical assessment allows us to identify any imbalances or restrictions that may exacerbate your fibromyalgia symptoms.
Once we completely understand symptoms, medical history, and other potential factors, our team will develop a customized fibromyalgia treatment plan built around your needs. Plans will vary from person to person, but you can expect us to use one or more of the following techniques:
- Targeted mobility work: One of the main components of your program will include gentle exercises and stretches designed to improve tissue flexibility and overall mobility. Gentle movement can alleviate fibromyalgia pain and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release address tender points, reduce muscle tension, and improve joint mobility, contributing to overall pain relief.
- Soft Tissue Massage: Techniques such as myofascial release, active release, petrissage, effleurage, and trigger point release target tight muscles and fascia, promoting relaxation, improved range of motion, and circulation.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy can help patients manage their symptoms by altering their thought patterns and behaviours related to pain and stress. Our Psychologists can provide this treatment in conjunction with our physiotherapists and physicians.
- Patient education and other lifestyle recommendations: Besides your in-clinic treatment, we’ll help you develop a plan for managing your condition in the real world. We can provide information on proper body mechanics, nutrition, rest and recovery strategies, and stress management techniques.
- Dry needling IMS: This technique involves the insertion of fine acupuncture needles into taut bands of muscle that contain a knot or trigger point, which works on several levels within the body to assist in releasing tight and sore muscles.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Gentle and precise spinal adjustments can help restore proper alignment and function, alleviating fibromyalgia-related pain and discomfort.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy can target tender areas, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall mobility and function.
Lifestyle Recommendations
We’ll provide guidance on nutrition, stress management, and exercises that can complement your chiropractic care and help manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Our physiotherapists want to help you find a fibromyalgia management plan that works. If one treatment isn’t proving effective, we’ll try another. Our results-based approach to physiotherapy will help you find the relief you need.
Your Next Steps…
Book An Appointment
Determine Coverage
Get An Assessment
Start Treatment