Johnston Integrative Therapy LLC

Fibromylagia is a very real and distressing chronic pain disorder shared by millions.The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS, 2014) reports that it has been estimated that Fibromyalgia (FM) affects 5 million Americans age 18 or older, most of whom are women yet it can be seen in children and men as well. Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread and heightened sensitivities to pain and touch, excessive fatigue, non-restorative sleep, morning stiffness, anxiety, with onset being gradual over a period of months or years. Patients also commonly report bowel disorders, increased cardiac awareness, headache, and temporal-mandibular joint dysfunction and depression. Cognitive dysfunction such as forgetfulness and inability to think clearly as well as mood disorders have been listed as among the most distressing symptoms. The exact causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, but in current research a theory exists that FM is caused by Central Sensitization which involves a nervous system that is stuck in a persistent state of heightened reactivity to pain. The course of FM can vary across different individuals. While it can get worse, it is not inevitable that it worsens. Additionally, with treatment, it can improve.