Conditions That PM&R Physicians Treat
Fibromyalgia / Myofascial Pain / Chronic Pain
Fibromyalgia, affecting some 5–10 percent of the
population, is characterized by tight, tender muscles, usually sore points in
the neck, shoulders, chest, back, knees and hips. Insomnia and depression
often are associated with the condition. While it is benign and
non-progressive, fibromyalgia is chronic. No specific cause is known, although
it sometimes appears following trauma. Chronic pain affects some 80 million
Americans and, following cancer and heart disease, is the third leading cause
of physical impairment in the United States.
Diagnosis of fibromyalgia often involves ruling out
other illnesses. Treatment is primarily exercise and may include some kind of
medication. From low back pain and herniated discs to carpal tunnel syndrome
and tendinitis, physiatrists seek to not only reduce and eliminate chronic
pain, but also to prevent its recurrence.
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