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Post by SAR01 on Aug 18, 2019 16:28:41 GMT -5
link3 Effective Pain Medications for Fibromyalgia
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Post by SAR01 on Sept 18, 2019 12:59:31 GMT -5
healthiculture.com/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-for-fibromyalgia/rauma is the main trigger of fibromyalgia in many sufferers. Hence, psychological treatments may benefit fibromyalgia more than physical treatments. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective psychological treatment for people suffering from fibromyalgia and other chronic pain illnesses. What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is based on the theory that our thoughts can be influenced by our behavior and feelings and vice versa. It is a short term psychological treatment which asserts that as we learn to manipulate our thinking we can change our actions and feelings. CBT as a therapy is not one singular strategy but rather a combination of several therapeutic techniques that include mindfulness, journaling, relaxation training, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). ACT helps patients acknowledge their emotions for what they are and, by doing so, make a commitment to act according to what they deem to be their deeply held personal values. CBT solves problems through a goal-oriented framework that has been evidenced to be effective for improving quality of life for persons with protracted illness. It has been found to be particularly effective for people suffering from fibromyalgia.
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Post by SAR01 on Sept 23, 2019 12:19:52 GMT -5
linkMassage therapy for fibromyalgia can be really effective for pain relief. The right massage can help to reduce muscle pain, spasm and stiffness. It induces relaxation which helps to relieve stress. Furthermore, massage can stimulate the production of endorphins, our body’s natural painkiller. However, it is important to go for the right type of massage to achieve both physical and psychological benefits for fibromyalgia. Not all types of massage are suitable for fibromyalgia. A 2013 study made a comparison between the effects of myofascial release therapy and Swedish massage therapy on fibromyalgia and found that pain reductions were more significant participants who went through the course of myofascial release therapy. Therefore, going for the appropriate massage therapy is paramount to fibromyalgia symptoms relief. Here are 3 fibromyalgia massage therapy that really helps: Trigger point therapy Trigger point therapy is a massage therapy used to treat trigger points, also referred to as muscle knots, a symptom which characterize Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS). Fibromyalgia and MPS often co-exist in patients which explains why many fibromyalgia sufferers can get pain relief with trigger point therapy. Trigger point therapy involves applying sustained pressure on trigger points for at least 10 seconds. After which, the pressure is applied with pumping technique for 30 seconds. This treatment helps to deactivate trigger points in the muscles hence reducing pain, tension and stiffness. Myofascial Release therapy Myofascial release is a massage therapy which targets the fascia, the connective which encases our muscles. Like trigger point therapy, it is also a treatment for MPS. However, unlike trigger point therapy where pressure is applied only on the specific points, myofascial release applies pressure over a wider area of muscle and . This type of massage uses a gentle sustained pressure to fascia restrictions to lengthen and release the fascia. It helps to relieve pain and stiffness in the muscle. Furthermore, what is good about this massage is that it is possible to learn to do-it-yourself at home. Craniosacral therapy Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a massage treatment applied to the bones of the head, spinal column and sacrum. This massage is suitable for fibromyalgia because it is non-invasive and adopts gentle pressure on key cranial points on the head, neck, and back. It aims to release compression in these areas to reduce pain and tension by regulating the pressure and flow of spinal fluid. Studies found evidence that CST can help improve anxiety, sleep and quality of life in fibromyalgia patients. According to an article found in Rheumatology International, to achieve ideal relief of fibromyalgia symptoms, the massage should not be painful and the intensity of the touches should be increased gradually. The article also recommend that fibromyalgia patients to go for massage sessions at least 1 to 2 times a week. The frequency can be gradually reduced when patients get improvement from their symptoms.
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Post by SAR01 on Oct 8, 2019 16:38:09 GMT -5
healthiculture.com/fibromyalgia/5knows/1.phpWe asked Fibromyalgia experts and acclaimed authors to tell us what most people don't know about fibromyalgia. Surely you would not at least 1 of them. This is what they told us...
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Post by SAR01 on Oct 13, 2019 13:27:53 GMT -5
foot reflexologyFoot reflexology can help to relieve pain in a wide variety of illnesses. It is a form of alternative therapy that relies on the application of pressure to zones in the foot. It may even help alleviate some of your fibromyalgia pain. What Is Foot Reflexology? The idea of applying pressure to specific parts of the body to promote better health dates back over 5000 years. However, reflexology is a relatively new technique in western medicine. Hand and foot reflexology gained mainstream attention in the early 1900s after a physician created the zone therapy concept. Zone therapy involved the application of stimuli to areas of the body to improve the flow of energy. With foot reflexology, the foot is separated into 12 separate zones. Reflexologists believe that these 12 points are connected to an energy channel or nerve pathway that travels to the top of the head. Hence, stimulating the 12 points in the foot may stimulate nerves and promote blood flow. Improving circulation through these channels may help reduce pain, stress, and tensed muscles. Hence, it is commonly used by those who suffer from stress, digestive issues, muscle pains, and fibromyalgia. It is now a form of alternative therapy but it still has a place in Western medicine. Many chiropractors and physical therapists use foot reflexology as part of their treatment plans for dealing with a wide range of issues. How Does Foot Reflexology Help Relieve Fibromyalgia Pain The effectiveness of reflexology has not been thoroughly evaluated through clinical studies. However, many fibromyalgia sufferers use foot reflexology as part of their pain management plans. Only one major study has explored the benefits of reflexology for treating fibromyalgia pain. In 2010, Gunnarsdottir and Peden-McAlpine published the results of a study involving six women suffering from fibromyalgia. Four of the six women experienced reduced pain after ten weekly foot reflexology sessions. These patients also experienced fewer migraines and headaches after their reflexology sessions. Besides fibromyalgia, researchers have examined the therapeutic benefits of foot reflexology for treating various health issues. One study found that reflexology may help reduce fatigue and alleviate pain in cancer patients and multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferers. Other Benefits of Foot Reflexology for Fibromyalgia Besides helping to relieve pain, foot reflexology may offer other benefits for fibromyalgia sufferers. By relieving additional fibromyalgia symptoms, patients may find it easier to cope with the pain. Some of the possible benefits of foot reflexology for fibromyalgia include: Relieving muscle tension – Applying pressure to specific points on the foot may help relieve muscle tension through the body. Releasing this tension can therefore lead to reduced pain in the areas of the body targeted by the pressure points. Improving blood circulation – Reflexology can also help to improve blood circulation. Increasing circulation through key areas of the body may help decrease the intensity of pain. Reducing fatigue – Several studies have found that reflexology may help fight fatigue in cancer and MS patients. Fibromyalgia patients also gain the same benefits. Fatigue and overall exhaustion are common symptoms of fibromyalgia In conclusion, foot reflexology is a type of alternative therapy. While it is rarely used in place of the treatments offered by your doctors, foot reflexology may be combined with your existing treatments to provide additional pain relief.
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Post by SAR01 on Oct 17, 2019 21:05:23 GMT -5
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Post by SAR01 on Oct 18, 2019 22:32:06 GMT -5
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Post by SAR01 on Nov 15, 2019 21:24:09 GMT -5
healthiculture.com/dysphagia-in-fibromyalgia/ysphagia refers to a condition characterized by a difficulty in swallowing. There are various conditions that can trigger dysphagia. Someone who suffers from it often finds it difficult to live a normal life. Depending on the condition, the manner of swallowing can become extremely painful. Thus, eating and getting enough nutrients for the body can be a challenge. Fibromyalgia patients often complain about having dysphagia. What Causes Dysphagia? There are various reasons why one would suffer from dysphagia. Anything that interrupts with the nerves and muscles responsible for controlling the esophagus can lead to this condition. However, some of the most reported causes are: • Achalasia– this condition triggers constriction of the muscles of the esophagus. • Diffuse spasm – a condition involving uncontrollable muscle spasms, usually right after swallowing food. • GERD or Gastro Intestinal Reflux Disease – this refers to the destruction of the tissues in the esophagus. It is often due to stomach acid flowing into the esophagus. • Esophageal stricture – narrowing of the esophagus opening as a result of the scar tissues or tumor.
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Post by SAR01 on Nov 19, 2019 17:13:53 GMT -5
A study threw out an interesting theory on the root of fibromyalgia. The study suggests that fibromyalgia could be caused by malfunctions in two main body systems. These sytems are key in regulating the production of important hormones therefore.. Fibromyalgia Caused By Malfunctions In Two Key Body Systems - Autonomic Nervous System and Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis A recent study threw up an interesting notion on the root of fibromyalgia. The study suggests that fibromyalgia could be caused by malfunctions in two chief body systems - the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis (HPA). These two body systems are key in regulating the production of important hormones and managing stress responses by the body. Imbalance in the two body systems can lead to sleeplessness, lack of energy, higher pain sensitivity, mood changes, digestive problems etc... healthiculture.com/fibromyalgia/newsletter/2malfunctions/2mal-1.phpAutonomic Nervous System (ANS) The Autonomic Nervous System is a large network of multifaceted neurons that maintain homeostasis in the body. This network includes cardiovascular, ophthalmologic, thermoregulatory, genitourinary and gastrointestinal systems in the body. The ANS contains both the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nervous systems. The former controls the response called “fight or flight” when one gets into seemingly dangerous situations, whereas the Parasympathetic nervous system lowers the rate and slows down the muscles to save energy. Fibromyalgia is linked to a malfunction in the ANS. Patients of fibromyalgia find that their Sympathetic Nervous System functions at an elevated pace and that their Parasympathetic Nervous System works at a much lower rate. Such individuals always face this inevitable “fight or flight” response. When such individuals are in a hyperactive state, they have an escalated rate. Women with this problem suffer with a dysfunctional ANS. Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis (HPA) The HPA axis is a network of stress responses by the brain, pituitary and adrenal glands. The main function of the hypothalamus is to maintain the body's balance. It receives and sends messages from the nervous system via hormones through the circulatory system. The hypothalamus regulates and controls blood pressure, digestion, sleep cycles, sex drive, body temperature, coordination, rate and sweating. The pituitary gland is responsible for the secretion of certain important hormones for the body while the Adrenal Gland produces hormones for the entire body and controls chemical reactions and the "fight or flight" response to stress. How ANS and HPA Lead To Fibromyalgia Pain Together, the ANS and the HPA axis are major paths for body responses during stressful conditions. These responses include pain, trauma, infection, low blood sugar and low blood pressure. Due to certain malfunctions in the ANS and HPA, the body can struggle to maintain homeostasis. External factors such as persistent daily stress, injury or other stressors can further knock the body's equilibirum off-balance. The body systems and stress response regulated by the ANS ans HPA respectively can go haywire. Studies conducted have shown that fibromyalgia patients are prone to either inactivity or overactivity in the HPA, causing abonormal levels of important hormones and hence leading to various symptoms of fibromyalgia.
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Post by SAR01 on Nov 27, 2019 16:33:03 GMT -5
healthiculture.com/fibromyalgia/newsletter/triggerpointtherapy/tptherapy-1.phpTrigger Point Therapy for Fibromyalgia Pain An individual can accumulate up to 300 trigger points or muscle knots across the entire body. These points are spots where muscle fibre are contracted, thereby causing pain and stiffness in adjacent areas. Trigger point therapy aims to release these persistant muscles knots to relieve the sore and stiffness experienced by a person. This treatment has gained popularity in sports physiotherapy and chronic pain conditions due to its effectiveness. Fibromyalgia patients have seen considerable pain relief and overall improvement due to this treatment. What is Trigger Point Therapy? Trigger point therapy is a massage technique directed towards trigger points in the body. There are two types – active and passive. The former causes pain only in the part that is pressed, while the latter leads to pain in other areas of the body as well. These are extremely sensitive spots and feel like tight bands or knots in the soft underneath the skin. The touch therapy removes these trigger points with several massage techniques that help to enhance muscular flexibility and alleviate pain, soreness and stiffness. How is Trigger Point Therapy Done? Pressure is applied with the fingers, knuckles, or elbows for about 10 seconds on the muscle knots. The pressure is released, and reapplied for half a minute using a pumping motion. During the treatment, your muscles slowly stretch and lengthen, thereby reducing tension and improving mobility. How Does Trigger Point Therapy Relieve Pain? This method is extremely effective when it comes to decreasing muscles and joint pain. The application of pressure boosts blood flow to the particular area. It facilitates the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the site and heals the tensed muscle. Your body also generates endorphins during this therapy, which helps to reduce pain. What Are The Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy for Fibromyalgia Patients? On top of muscular pain, stiffness, and fatigue, fibromyalgia also characterized by tender points located at 18 specific spots in the body. Trigger point therapy can eliminate tender points and subsequent symptoms. Other benefits also include: Range of motion improves Flexibility is enhanced Muscle stiffness is lessened Depression and anxiety is eased Healing due to better circulation What to Expect During Trigger Point Therapy Sessions? Although the timing could vary, these sessions go on for an hour. The first session usually takes slightly longer as the practitioner would do through general questions about your health and related issues. Trigger points are also identified during then. During the therapy, the practioner would exert pressure on the trigger points with their hands. Although the fingers and knuckles are adequate to exert pressure, special trigger point therapy tools are also utilized at times. Do not hesitate to speak out on how much discomfort you feel when pressure is applied on a specific trigger point, so the therapist can massage that area accordingly. After applying pressure, the practioner would help you stretch your muscles to prevent them from tightening up again. The pain decreases in intensity as the session goes on. After multiple sessions, you will feel a significant difference. Always go to a trusted medical facility with a certified trigger point therapists or myotherapists, or get a referral from your doctor
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Post by SAR01 on Dec 9, 2019 20:27:03 GMT -5
linkFibromyalgia has been to linked to autoimmune diseases like Lupus and Rheumatoid arthritis. Although fibromyalgia is not yet classified as an autoimmune disease, we cannot conclude that it is not one. Is fibromyalgia an autoimmune disease? Is Fibromyalgia An Autoimmune Disease? Fibromyalgia is a condition that is not yet classified as autoimmune disease. But we cannot conclude that it is not one, because the underlying causes of this condition has not yet been known. It is certainly possible that autoimmunity could play a part in all cases. Sponsored Links Fibromyalgia currently affects almost 5 million adults all over the United States. Autoimmune disease can, and usually does, occur alongside with this condition. In addition, some of the autoimmune diseases, like lupus, come with symptoms that are almost similar to fibromyalgia. Since fibromyalgia has been believed to be a condition that's related to arthritis, and most types of arthritis, like the rheumatoid arthritis are categorized as autoimmune diseases, which is why many believe that fibromyalgia also belongs under this category. Unfortunately, some researches pointed on different directions. Why Fibromyalgia Is Not An Autoimmune Disease? There are some researches that would suggest that the immune system on fibromyalgia may come with some irregularities, like it is being chronically overactive. Others also believe that this means autoimmune, but these are actually two different kinds of immune dysfunction. In an autoimmune disorder, the immune system will basically mistake a certain or structure in the body as being dangerous for invader, like bacteria or virus. It will then attack such or structure, in order to destroy it. The process will usually lead to damages or inflammation in that site.
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Post by SAR01 on Dec 14, 2019 15:24:54 GMT -5
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Post by SAR01 on Dec 16, 2019 21:35:19 GMT -5
healthiculture.com/fibromyalgia/newsletter/5taboos/5taboos-1.phpDiet is often overlooked when it comes to fibromyalgia. Conversely, the food you eat can contribute to the pain you experience. Certain foods can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms or ignite fibromyalgia flares. It is therefore important be aware of the foods that aggravate pain and make the appropriate changes in your diet. Read on to find out the 5 food taboos.. Food Taboo: Monosodium Glutamate MSG MSG is a food enhancer that is commonly used in asian, especially chinese, cuisine. Although it makes food tasty and some may even argue that it gives them short lived happiness when they indulge in flavorful foods, it causes more pain than it induces comfort. MSG belongs to a group of excitotoxins which in known to heighten pain sensitivity in chronic pain patients. MSG can also be found in many instant package processed food like instant noodles, frozen meals, canned soup and packaged chips etc. Food Taboo: Caffeine Insomia is a common symptom of fibromyalgia. This can tigger other pain symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, body aches and mood swings. Caffeine, one the other hand, is the kryptonite of sleep. Caffeine is a stimulant known to help a person stay awake. Hence, patients suffering from the chronic pain should refrain from caffeine to prevent sleeplessness in the night. Caffeine when taken in excess may also cause increased heartrate and breathlessness hence worsening pain. Food Taboo: Aspartame Another member of the excitotoxin group, aspartame affects fibromyalgia pain in the same way as MSG does. It can increase pain sensitivity but sending pain signals to the brain at abnormally high intervals thus worsening pain in fibromyalgia patients. Aspartame can be found in most sugar-free candies, sweets and drinks. Food Taboo: Nightshade Vegetables Nightshade vegetables are known to aggravate joint pain especially for people who suffer from arthritis and fibromyalgia. The high amount of alkaloids present in nightshades is associated to inflammation and pain. Although nightshades are well tolerated by the masses, fibromyalgia patients who are highly sensitive to pain stimuli can respond to it negatively. Some nightshades include tomatoes, bell peppers, potatoes and eggplant. Food Taboo: Yeast Consuming yeast promotes the growth of yeast within the body. When combined with excess sugar, the growth of yeast proliferates resulting in yeast infections. Yeast infection can cause discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract and genitals hence worsening the chronic pain. Yeast can be found in most baked goods and noodles.
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Post by SAR01 on Jan 4, 2020 20:41:33 GMT -5
healthiculture.com/fibromyalgia/newsletter/fibrofog/fibrofog-1.php8 Ways To Beat Fibro Fog Fibro fog, fibromyalgia fog or brain fog are commonly used expressions for the mental difficulties fibromyalgia patients face. In fact, it was found that fibromyalgia can affect your mental clarity more detrimentally than it can cause pain and exhaustion. Although, there is no specific medication that tackles this brain handicapping symptom of fibromyalgia, experts recommend patients to inculcate these 8 habits to help reduce fibro fog and improve daily functioning. Here are 8 ways to help you beat fibro fog... #1 Stop the caffeine habit Many people resort to caffeine to clear their mental fog. While it may serve them well temporarily, it can also be the one of the reasons that contributes to mental fog. Caffeine disturbs sleep. This leads to fatigue, irritability, lack of concentration and other cognitve issues. #2 Note down all appointments, errands and things to-do Use a diary, planner or even post-sticks to remind yourself of all important appointments and things to-do. This way you can then keep track of all events and prevent yourself from missing any. #3 Set routines Set a daily routine for all your everyday tasks. For example, plan your route out step by step from the moment you get up to the moment you leave your house for work. Follow the same routine and replay them in your mind each morning to prevent yourself from forgeting to do or bring anything. #4 Clear the junk Tidy up your space and have everything in its place. Small efforts like this can help organize your mind and keep you focused. Remove any unnecessary clutter--yet another way of getting rid of mental fog. #5 One task at a time You may want to save time by doing multiple tasks together. If you do, you'll find it difficult to concentrate on doing your best. If you're harassed by too many people at the same time, tell them they'll have to wait till you're done. #6 Be stress-free Stress could be a factor that worsens fibro fog in some fibromyalgia patients. However, this can be relieved by practicing meditation or yoga. #7 Take deep breaths Fibromyalgia patients find that taking deep breaths can help them relax and be stress-free. It also helps to give them mental clarity. #8 Try to sleep better You need to get deep sleep each night. To improve the quality of your sleep, go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Stop using your laptop, smartphone or tablets 30 minutes before bedtime. Instead, read a book to help you get into sleeping mode. Though cognitive problems are common with fibromyalgia. However, with more care and organization, you can cope with your mental fog and lead a life normally.
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