Statement of Purpose - The purpose of this support group is to provide ongoing education and support to those persons suffering from Fibromyalgia ( FMS ), Chronic Pain, and /or Chronic Fatigue or related conditions and their significant others/support system. The meeting provides an opportunity to talk freely about problems, concerns, and frustrations, to share information and encouragement, and to provide education, helpful hints, and support. Through your participation in this group, you can learn more about Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and get ideas about what can be done to ease it's effects on your life.
What Happens at Meetings - Meetings are open to the public and may include lectures given by various medical experts, review of current literature/ research, and general discussions among members. Educational sessions may include films, handouts, seminars, or discussions regarding problems of daily living. Generally the meetings last about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Everyone is encouraged to participate at his or her own comfort level.
Meetings are usually held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. Please check the Calendar of Events on this web site or call Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center at 570-621-9500
What is FMS? - Fibromyalgia Syndrome is a Rheumatic disorder which is characterized by a wide spread Musculoskeletal Point Fatigue Disorder for which the cause is still unknown. It most commonly affects the lower back, the neck, the shoulders, the back of the head, the upper chest, and/or the thighs, although any area or areas of the body may be involved. The pain is usually described as burning, throbbing, shooting and stabbing. More women than men are affected with FMS. Studies reveal that the condition is equally severe in both genders and it shows up in people of all ages.
How FMS is Diagnosed - Although routine laboratory testing is inconclusive, a physical examination will show sensitivity to pressure in certain areas of the body called tender points. To meet the diagnostic criteria, patients must have widespread pain in all four quadrants of their body for a minimal duration of three months and have pain at least 12 of the 18 specified tender points. These sites are found around the neck, shoulders, chest, hip, knee, and elbow regions.
Symptoms And Associated Syndromes -
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Sleep disorders
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Chronic headaches
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome
- Multiple chemical sensitivity
- Other common symptoms
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Painful periods
- Chest pain
- Morning stiffness
- Cognitive or memory impairment
- Numbness and tingling sensations
- Muscle twitching
- Irritable bladder
- Feeling of swollen extremities
- Skin sensitivities
- Dry eyes and mouth
- Frequent changes in eye prescription
- Dizziness
Aggravating Factors -
- Changes in weather
- Cold and/or drafty environment
- Hormonal fluctuations (premenstrual or menopausal)
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety and other exertion
How FMS Is Treated -
Traditional treatments are geared towards improving the quality
of sleep as well as reducing pain. Most patients may need to use
medications and other treatment methods, such as; trigger
trigger point injections, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy,
Acupuncture, Acupressure, Relaxation Technique, Osteopathic Manipulation,
Chiropractic Care, Therapeutic Massage or Gentle Exercise Program.
Results vary among individuals and research continues to improve
treatment and protocols.
Prognosis - Long term follow-up studies on FMS have shown that it is chronic, but the symptoms may wax and wane. The impact that FMS can have on daily living activities, including the ability to work a full time job, differs among patients. Overall studies have shown that FMS can be equally as disabling as Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Strategies - Lifestyle modifications may help you conserve energy and minimize pain. Learn what factors aggravate your symptoms and avoid them. If possible, join your local support group and become informed about your condition to assist your quest to improve the quality of life.
For more information about Fibromyalgia Syndrome link to:
