Fibromyalgia

Question 1

characterized by

Answer 1

widespread MSK pain and fatigue

Question 2

etiology

Answer 2

• unknown
• abnormal changes in brains processing of painful sensation, including abnormal increases in NTs and and brain pain receptors
• tends to run in families
• 80-90% female

Question 3

symptoms may begin..

Answer 3

after physical trauma, surgery, infection, or significant psychological stress

Question 4

who is more likely to develop FMS

Answer 4

people with RA, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis

Question 5

signs and symptoms

Answer 5

• widespread pain described as constant dull ache > 3 months
• multiple trigger points on head, chest, elbows, hips or knees that are TTP
• persistent fatigue
• sleep disturbances
• cognitive difficulties: “fibro fog”
• atypical patterns of numbness and tingling

Question 6

what can make symptoms worse?

Answer 6

stress

Question 7

often co-exists with…

Answer 7

other conditions such as irritable bowel or bladder syndrome, migraine and other types of headaches, interstitial cystitis, and TMJ

Question 8

diagnosis

Answer 8

• widespread pain for more than 3 mo with no underlying medical condition
• • TTP exam: 11/18 must be positive

Question 9

medical treatment

Answer 9

• analgesics
• antidepressants and antiseizure drugs
• nutritional support
• psychological support and counseling

Question 10

PT intervention - regular exercise

Answer 10

• typically demonstrate exercise intolerance
• daily exercise important
• mild to mod intensity, 30 min duration, 2-3 x/week, slow progression
• aquatic exercise
• stretching
• strengthening
• manual therapy including massage
• deep breathing, yoga, tai chi

Question 11

PT intervention - techniques for managing pain

Answer 11

• teach technique for taking control, reducing fatigue, improving function, and QOL
• promote self responsibility
• promote energy conservation
• refer to support group