May is Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month and seniors can find themselves diagnosed with fibromyalgia after years of trying to determine what is causing the pain they’ve been experiencing. Fibromyalgia is a complicated condition that includes muscular pain, fatigue, sleep issues, and other symptoms. There isn’t a cure for fibromyalgia, but solutions like physical therapy through in-home rehabilitation services can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Fibromyalgia symptoms can vary significantly from one person to another. Usually, people with fibromyalgia experience pain throughout their bodies, fatigue, stiffness, cognitive difficulties referred to as “fibro fog,” mood changes, and more. Very often these symptoms make it difficult for seniors to live their lives to the fullest, especially when they experience some of the same symptoms as a result of aging. Fibromyalgia flares, or periods of worsening symptoms, are common when people overdo physical activity.
Alleviating Pain and Fatigue
Pain and fatigue are some of the most common symptoms fibromyalgia sufferers experience. These symptoms can be so severe that sufferers can’t engage in any activities that they enjoy. Physical therapists can help patients manage these symptoms by first assessing functional limitations and pain levels and then using targeted interventions. These typically include low-impact exercises that help to promote circulation and release endorphins.
Stretching and Flexibility
Gentle stretching exercises can help to improve joint mobility, which also helps to reduce muscle tension and stiffness. Because these are common issues with fibromyalgia, it’s important to address them carefully. Yoga, tai chi, and Pilates might be some of the recommendations from physical therapists. Physical therapists can also help seniors with fibromyalgia to learn how to stretch properly so that they loosen muscles and joints without causing further pain.
Manual Therapy
Another aspect of physical therapy that can help with fibromyalgia symptoms is manual therapy. This type of therapy includes techniques like massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy. These types of treatments often improve mobility and also enhance relaxation. Manual therapy can help to loosen muscle knots, target tension, and promote overall well-being. Engaging in these types of therapies regularly can offer results over a longer period.
Trying Different Approaches
Because every patient with fibromyalgia has different symptoms and different needs, they may need to try a combination of various treatments and in-home rehabilitation services. Physical therapy can use exercises along with other treatments to help patients experience reduced symptoms. Other in-home rehabilitation services in combination with other healthcare providers may also help. Some fibromyalgia patients use CBT therapy, stress management techniques, medication, acupuncture, and more to manage their fibromyalgia.
Understanding as much as possible about fibromyalgia helps seniors to cope with a sometimes difficult diagnosis. Treatments like physical therapy help address some of the symptoms they deal with daily and can help to greatly improve the quality of life over time. Patients may not find a cure for their fibromyalgia, but they can experience reduced symptoms and find it easier to manage their pain and stiffness with the techniques they learn and use.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Rehabilitation Services in Willard OH, please get in touch with the caring staff at Central Star Home Health today. Call 419-756-9449
Central Star Home Health is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Ohio including Ashland, Bellville, Bucyrus, Crestline, Galion, Lexington, Mansfield, Marion, Mt. Vernon, Ontario, Shelby, and Willard.
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