When pain seems inexplicable: fibromyalgia under the microscope

The symptoms of fibromyalgia are diverse and affect not only the body, but also the mind. Widespread pain in different areas of the body, often near joints, muscles and tendons, is typical. Often the pain occurs in one part of the body but spreads to other areas.

For most fibromyalgia patients, the pain is accompanied by extreme tiredness and exhaustion, which often develops into chronic fatigue (ME/CFS). Sleep disorders and concentration problems are common complaints. These are often referred to as “fibro fog”. This name is intended to make it clear how restrictive the symptoms can be; those affected feel as if they are in a daze.

Many people affected by fibromyalgia also suffer from co-morbidities such as: Irritable bowel syndrome or other chronic pain diseases such as migraines or Endometriosis, which makes dealing with the disease even more difficult. 

There are usually phases in which the symptoms almost disappear, followed by periods of intense discomfort, so-called flare-ups, which can massively restrict everyday life. But how do these symptoms and, above all, the disease itself arise?

Causes of Fibromyalgia 

People are still in the dark about the exact causes of fibromyalgia, which is what makes the disease so difficult to treat. Scientists believe that various factors work together to trigger the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Genetic predisposition plays an important role, as do disorders in the central nervous system. Stress, trauma or infections could also be triggers. 

It is believed that those affected develop an increased sensitivity to pain because the nervous system reacts to stimuli more strongly than usual. This hypersensitivity means that even harmless touch can cause pain. What happens if these causes are left untreated? The consequences are psychological strain, stress and everyday life that is severely restricted by the symptoms.

Reading tip: A massage can have a positive effect on the nervous system. Find out more about this in our article.

Diagnosis of fibromyalgia - the path to greater clarity

Since no specific tests exist to clearly confirm the disease, diagnosing fibromyalgia often becomes a challenge for doctors and patients. Many sufferers have to go through a long period of suffering before they suspect and subsequently receive a diagnosis of fibromyalgia.

Medical professionals usually diagnose the disease by ruling out diseases similar to fibromyalgia and checking typical pain points (so-called “tender points”). The path to diagnosis can be frustrating for many. The fact that over three million adults in Germany are affected by fibromyalgia shows how important it is that appropriate and timely treatment is provided.

The consequences of fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects the entire life of those affected. Chronic pain, extreme exhaustion and limited physical performance not only affect your professional life, but of course also your private life.

This is followed by a battle against the reduced quality of life and social isolation, as the ongoing symptoms make it difficult to participate in everyday activities. This can often lead to psychological problems such as depression or anxiety, which are common accompaniments of the disease. Everyday life can become a real challenge - and this is exactly where most treatment options target.

Treatment options for fibromyalgia

Since fibromyalgia is a chronic disease, treatment is primarily aimed at relieving pain and improving the quality of life of those affected - there is currently no cure.

An interdisciplinary team of doctors, pain therapists, neurologists, psychologists and physiotherapists is crucial for successful treatment. This team of experts helps to reduce fibromyalgia symptoms and support those affected in their everyday lives. The solutions can be different and depend on the individual complaints of the fibromyalgia patient.

Reading tip: Work together with the team of doctors Fibromyalgia patients on their pain management. You can find out more about this in the article.

Fibromyalgia: Drug treatment

Painkillers or antidepressants are often prescribed for fibromyalgia to relieve pain and stabilize mood. These medications can help reduce pain levels so that those affected can participate more actively in life again.

However, it is important to use the medication under medical supervision and carefully adjust the dosage to minimize side effects. Common painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol are not recommended for fibromyalgia. It is not uncommon for those affected to first try out different medications in consultation with the treating doctors until they find the right one.

Fibromyalgia: treatment without medication

As an alternative, there are also non-drug therapies in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Exercise, warmth, a targeted diet and relaxation methods are among the most effective measures to relieve pain and increase quality of life.

Many sufferers benefit from regular activities such as swimming or yoga, which gently strengthen the muscles and improve mobility. Heat applications, such as hot water bottles or heat patches, help to loosen tense muscles and relieve discomfort. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can also help control symptoms.

Relaxation methods such as meditation or breathing exercises promote inner peace and can reduce stress, which can worsen symptoms. A good combination of these approaches can significantly improve the well-being of those affected. Massages can also be part of a treatment plan.

Massages for fibromyalgia

Massages are a proven method to relieve fibromyalgia pain and relax the muscles. They help to specifically relax tense areas and promote blood circulation.

Particularly gentle massage techniques like this manual lymphatic drainage or even Shiatsu have proven to be helpful. These techniques apply gentle pressure to the affected areas and can help relieve pain without creating additional stress on the body.

Massage chair for relaxation in everyday life

Massage chairs are a wonderful addition to the treatment of fibromyalgia as they provide regular relaxation in everyday life. They enable those affected to treat themselves to a soothing massage on a regular basis without much effort - right in their own four walls.

Massage chairs offer different programs that can be individually adjusted so that they specifically address tension and increase well-being. These regular relaxation sessions are particularly important for fibromyalgia to relieve pain and make everyday life more bearable.

Also interesting: How does a massage chair actually work and what’s behind it? More about this in our article “From 2D and 3D massage technology – what can massage chairs do?“

Fibromyalgia – Keeping everyday life in balance

Fibromyalgia can be a real challenge for those affected. But the good news is that there are ways to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Whether through medication, targeted exercise, heat or relaxing massages - it is important that fibromyalgia patients find out individually, together with a team of doctors, what helps them. Massages, including massage chairs, can be a valuable support in everyday life by offering regular moments of relaxation.

Even if this disease cannot be cured, as a fibromyalgia sufferer you can learn to deal with it and feel good despite everything with targeted, conscious treatment. Take your well-being back into your own hands and find your individual way to alleviate the symptoms.

Cover image: Žygimantas Dukauskas, additional images:  Gizem Nikomedi, Online Marketing, Hans Vivek