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Fibromyalgia Specialist

Rheumatology of Central Indiana

Rheumatology located in Muncie, IN & Richmond, IN

Fibromyalgia affects over 10 million people in the United States, making it one of the most common causes of chronic pain. To help you find pain relief and improve your overall quality of life, the team at Rheumatology of Central Indiana offers comprehensive fibromyalgia care at six locations in Muncie, Richmond, New Castle, Greensburg, Shelbyville, and Marion, Indiana. The team focuses on custom treatments that ease pain, increase mobility, and prevent complications long-term. To schedule a consultation for fibromyalgia, call Rheumatology of Central Indiana today or book an appointment online.

Fibromyalgia Q & A

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes widespread muscle pain throughout your body. The cause of fibromyalgia isn’t well understood, but it may develop due to dysfunction in the way your brain processes pain signals.

While pain can protect you from danger, those with fibromyalgia experience chronic pain that may be abnormally amplified by your brain. Pain may initially be triggered by one or more factors but become chronic and difficult to treat over time. Events that can trigger fibromyalgia pain include:

  • Injury
  • Infection
  • Surgery

Psychological stress may also trigger or worsen the pain of fibromyalgia.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

The hallmark symptom of fibromyalgia is widespread aches and persistent pain that lasts three months or longer and isn’t resolved with rest and home care. This pain affects both sides of your body and can develop on both the upper and lower half of your body.

Because of the ongoing pain, people with fibromyalgia also experience symptoms like:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Sleeping disruptions
  • Difficulties concentrating

Those with the disease often have other underlying conditions that accompany fibromyalgia, such as irritable bowel syndrome and migraines. Due to the disruption in your life, fibromyalgia can also increase your risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

Generally, the symptoms of ongoing, widespread pain are diagnosed as fibromyalgia. Your provider may request X-rays or blood work to rule out infections and other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Once he understands your diagnosis, your provider creates a treatment plan that focuses on effective pain relief and your ability to stay active and independent.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

Treatments for fibromyalgia vary from person to person based on the severity of pain. The team at Rheumatology of Central Indiana works closely with you to determine which medications can relieve pain and improve your quality of life. Medications may also be necessary to help you get good-quality sleep each night.

To improve your physical strength, your provider may also refer you for physical therapy or recommend an exercise program you can do at home. 

If you’re struggling with depression or anxiety because of your pain, Rheumatology of Central Indiana offers both support and guidance to help you cope. 

To get help with fibromyalgia, call the office or book an appointment online today.