Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects millions of people, often causing widespread pain, fatigue, and difficulty performing daily activities. Because symptoms can overlap with other conditions, fibromyalgia is frequently misunderstood or misdiagnosed. At Kansas Pain Management, we help patients accurately identify fibromyalgia and develop personalized treatment plans to improve function and quality of life.
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a long-term disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain along with fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory issues, and mood changes. Researchers believe fibromyalgia affects how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, making patients more sensitive to pain.
It is not an inflammatory or autoimmune disease, but it often occurs alongside conditions such as arthritis, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia symptoms can vary from person to person and may fluctuate over time. Common symptoms include:
1. Widespread Pain
- Persistent dull or aching pain lasting more than three months
- Pain affecting both sides of the body and above and below the waist
2. Fatigue
- Feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep
- Low energy that interferes with work and daily activities
3. Sleep Disturbances
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Non-restorative sleep
4. Cognitive Difficulties (“Fibro Fog”)
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory issues
- Mental fatigue
5. Additional Symptoms
- Headaches or migraines
- Depression or anxiety
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
How Is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?
There is no single lab test or imaging study that confirms fibromyalgia. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, symptom history, and ruling out other conditions.
At Kansas Pain Management, diagnosis typically includes:
- Detailed medical history
- Assessment of pain distribution and severity
- Evaluation of fatigue, sleep, and cognitive symptoms
- Excluding conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or thyroid disorders
Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent unnecessary testing and delayed treatment.
Fibromyalgia Management and Treatment Options
Although fibromyalgia has no cure, symptoms can be effectively managed with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.
1. Medications
Depending on symptoms, treatment may include:
- Neuropathic pain medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Antidepressants to improve sleep and pain processing
2. Physical Therapy
Targeted physical therapy can help:
- Improve flexibility and strength
- Reduce stiffness
- Increase endurance
3. Interventional Pain Management
For patients with overlapping conditions such as neck pain, back pain, or nerve-related pain, interventional treatments may help reduce symptom burden and improve function.
4. Lifestyle Modifications
Small changes can make a big difference:
- Regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, stretching)
- Stress management techniques
- Sleep hygiene improvement
5. Behavioral and Psychological Support
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and pain psychology can help patients:
- Develop coping strategies
- Reduce pain-related stress
- Improve overall quality of life
Why Choose Kansas Pain Management for Fibromyalgia Care?
At Kansas Pain Management, we take a personalized, whole-patient approach to fibromyalgia treatment. Our team focuses on identifying pain generators, improving daily function, and helping patients regain control of their lives—without relying solely on medications.
We work closely with patients to create custom treatment plans that address both physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain.
When Should You See a Pain Specialist?
You should consider seeing a pain management specialist if:
- Pain lasts longer than three months
- Symptoms interfere with work or daily activities
- Previous treatments have not provided relief
Early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of fibromyalgia or chronic widespread pain, Kansas Pain Management is here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and begin your journey toward better pain control and improved quality of life.
