Muscle Pain

Article from AG news

March 06, 2009
Writer(s): Kay Ledbetter, 806-677-5600,SKledbetter@ag.tamu.edu
Contact(s): Andrew Crocker, 806-677-5600, abcrocker@ag.tamu.edu

AMARILLO – An estimated five million Americans age 18 or older are affected by fibromyalgia – a chronic condition causing pain in muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points, said a Texas AgriLife Extension Service specialist.

Although fibromyalgia is often considered an arthritis-related condition, it is not truly a form of arthritis because it does not cause inflammation or damage to joints or muscles, said Andrew Crocker, AgriLife Extension gerontology specialist.

The tender points are places on the body where people with fibromyalgia feel pain from even the slightest pressure, Crocker said. These places include the neck, shoulders, back and hips.

Between 80 percent and 90 percent of those diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women, he said, and most are diagnosed during middle age.

Signs and symptoms can vary, depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day, Crocker said. The pain associated with fibromyalgia is described as a constant dull ache, typically arising from muscles.

Scientists do not know what causes fibromyalgia, he said. It is not progressive and does not lead to other conditions or diseases. It can, however, lead to pain, depression and lack of sleep.

“These problems can then interfere with your ability to function at home or at work as well as maintain close family or personal relationships,” Crocker said. “Because many of the signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to other disorders, you may see several health providers before receiving a diagnosis.”

The American College of Rheumatology has established two criteria for diagnosis: widespread pain lasting at least three months and at least 11 of 18 tender points positive for pain..

People at risk of developing fibromyalgia include those who have leg muscle spasms at night, restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea; those with a relative with fibromyalgia; and those with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or other similar disorders.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved a medication to treat fibromyalgia, and it may help reduce the pain and improve sleep, Crocker said.

“Your health provider may also treat you with other forms of medications, such as pain relievers,” he said. “Exercise may help restore muscle balance and may reduce pain. Stretching techniques and the application of hot or cold also may help. Ask your health provider about his or her recommendation for physical therapy to help with your fibromyalgia.”

Several alternative treatments may help relieve stress and reduce pain; however, these treatments are somewhat unproven because they have not been studied thoroughly, Crocker said. Consult a health provider about the risks and benefits of treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic therapy and massage therapy.

“Behavioral therapy also may help strengthen your belief in your abilities and teach methods for dealing with stressful situations,” he said. “Self-care is critical in the management of fibromyalgia.”

Some key factors in self-care may include:

-- Stress reduction. Take time each day to relax. Try stress management techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises or meditation.

-- Sleep. In addition to getting enough sleep, try going to bed and getting up at the same time each day and limit napping.

-- Exercise. Consult a health provider or physical therapist about an exercise program. Exercises may include walking, biking and water aerobics.

-- Take time. Keep activity on an even level. Don’t do too much, however; those that drop all activity tend to do worse than those who remain active. -- Healthy lifestyle. Eat a diet varied with lean meats, fish, fruits and vegetables. Also, limit caffeine intake as it may cause sleep problems.

“In addition to having to deal with pain and fatigue, you may have to deal with the frustration of having a condition that is often misunderstood,” Crocker said. “Educate yourself, your family, friends and co-workers about your condition.”

Several groups, including The Arthritis Foundation and the American Chronic Pain Association, provide educational classes and support groups.

“Support groups may provide help and advice that you might not find anywhere else,” he said. “They may also be able to put you in touch with others who have had similar experiences and understand what you are experiencing.”

For more information, go to Web site of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, a division of the National Institutes of Health: http://www.niams.nih.gov .
Hope this is of interest. More about back pain at www.backpainloss.com

Paul