How Physiotherapy Can Help Manage Arm Pain in Fibromyalgia Patients
Arm pain is a common symptom of fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep disruptions. Fibromyalgia affects 2-4% of the population and has a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. In this article from London physio clinic One Body LDN, we’ll look at the causes of arm pain in fibromyalgia and how physiotherapy can help.
Causes of Arm Pain In Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition for which there is no known cure. Fibromyalgia’s exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain and tenderness all over the body, including the arms. Individuals suffering from fibromyalgia may experience arm pain due to a variety of factors, including:
Tender points or trigger points are localised areas of tenderness and pain that can develop as a result of fibromyalgia. These trigger points, which can be found in the arms, neck, shoulders, and other parts of the body, can cause severe pain and discomfort.
Individuals with fibromyalgia have an increased sensitivity to pain due to a phenomenon known as central sensitisation. The nervous system becomes more sensitive to pain signals, amplifying the pain response.
Muscle Fatigue: Fibromyalgia can cause muscle fatigue, which can result in arm weakness and pain. Muscle fatigue is caused by a decreased capacity for exercise and physical activity, which can lead to muscle deconditioning and weakness.
How Physiotherapy Can Help Arm Pain In Fibromyalgia Patients
Physiotherapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option that can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms such as arm pain. Fibromyalgia physiotherapy typically consists of a combination of exercise, manual therapy, and education to improve physical function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
Physiotherapists can create an exercise programme that is specifically tailored to the needs of fibromyalgia patients. Exercise can help improve muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility while also lowering the risk of muscle fatigue and weakness. Exercise can also improve cardiovascular health, lowering the risk of heart disease and other fibromyalgia comorbidities.
Massage and trigger point release are two manual therapy techniques that can be used to relieve pain and reduce muscle tension. These techniques can aid in the management of trigger points and the reduction of pain sensitivity, thereby improving the patient’s overall quality of life. Education is an essential component of fibromyalgia physiotherapy treatment. Physiotherapists can educate patients on pain management techniques, stress reduction techniques, and lifestyle changes that can help improve their symptoms.
Conclusion
Arm pain is a common complaint among people suffering from fibromyalgia. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, physiotherapy can help manage symptoms such as arm pain. Exercise, manual therapy, and education are all effective fibromyalgia physiotherapy treatments that help to improve physical function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. If you have fibromyalgia and are experiencing arm pain, consider seeking physiotherapy near you in London to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
