Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain – we can help!

Fibromyalgia is a neurological condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain that can be triggered by physical trauma to the body from an accident or from the mental stress of dealing with an injury. 

For years, Fibromyalgia was often misdiagnosed. Today, medical professionals recognize Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain as a chronic medical condition that can cause extreme pain for both men and women. According to the Arthritis Society, Fibromyalgia affects 2% of Canadians with 80 to 90% of patients with Fibromyalgia being women. 

Fibromyalgia is not life-threatening; nor is it damaging to muscles, joints or organs. However, it does impact one’s quality of life. Living with chronic pain can prevent patients from working, socializing and even completing day-to-day tasks. 

If you or a loved one is suffering from Fibromyalgia resulting from an accident, contact our trusted and experienced team at Tim Louis & Associates.

Fibromyalgia Symptoms 

Pain is the most common symptom of Fibromyalgia. Patients may experience widespread or specific pain in certain areas of the body, which may include the neck, back, chest, arms and/or legs. Often the pain is felt when firm pressure is applied to muscles, tendons and or soft tissue. 

Other symptoms may include: 

• Headaches 
• Extreme sensitivity to touch 
• Stiff muscles 
• Irritability 
• Widespread pain all over the body, with some areas worse than others 
• Fatigue 
• Cognitive issues also known as ‘brain fog’ 
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Disturbed sleep 
• Abnormal temperature regulation 

Other Symptoms 

• Restless leg syndrome 
• Depression and or anxiety 
• Painful periods 
• Occasional dizziness 
• Extreme sensitivity to temperature and scents 

Fibromyalgia Causes 

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. For certain people, FM can be the result of a stressful, traumatic event such as a vehicle collision or can be triggered as a result of repetitive injuries, certain diseases, or illness. Research studies have also found that there is a genetic component to Fibromyalgia. 

Diagnosis 

While there are no lab tests to confirm a Fibromyalgia diagnosis, there may be other illnesses that present the same symptoms. A doctor may want to order blood tests to rule out other conditions that may include:

• Cyclic sedimentation rate test 
• Complete blood count test 
• Rheumatoid factor test 
• Thyroid function test 
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 

Additional tests may be ordered depending on symptoms, which may include X-rays or an EMG to test the muscle’s electrical activity.

Treatment 

Although there is no cure for Fibromyalgia, certain medications that can help reduce and manage pain or other symptoms associated with FM. Your doctor will recommend the best options for your unique needs. These medications may include: 

• Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription) 
• Anti-seizure medication 
• Anti-depressants 

Research has shown that Fibromyalgia patients can reduce symptoms with proper self-care and lifestyle changes. Adequate sleep, managing stress and practicing low impact exercises such as water therapy and aerobics can help reduce symptoms over time. It’s important to consult with a medical professional that can recommend the right treatment to benefit a Fibromyalgia patient’s unique needs. 

We Will Help Get You Compensation for Your Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain 

Fibromyalgia is a painful illness that can affect one’s quality of life and cause chronic pain. If you or a loved one is suffering from Fibromyalgia resulting from an accident, contact our trusted and experienced team at Tim Louis & Associates. Our goal is to help you get the compensation you deserve. Book a free consultation with us today by contacting us at 604-732-7678 or email: timlouis@timlouislaw.com 

Sources: 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354785 

https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/fibromyalgia