Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia primarily affects women and is characterized by widespread and chronic pain, with the additional symptoms of irritable bowel and bladder, painful menses, visual disturbances, memory difficulties, sleep problems or depression. It is common for symptoms to wax and wane.

Physical therapy can help decrease the pain through hands-on techniques using heat, ultrasound, electric stimulation and gentle massage. Special techniques such as myofascial work to trigger points may also be helpful. In addition it is important to learn how to self-manage symptoms through stretching exercises, aerobic conditioning and warm water pool programs. Regions Hospital has a fibromyalgia class in which people are taught proper body mechanics, posture re-education, simplification strategies and strategies to improve sleep.

Treatment for depression and other emotional/relational problems resulting from the pain and impaired activities may be an important and can be provided by our psychologist.

For more information about this program, please call the Regions Hospital Physical Therapy Clinic at 651-254-2071 or HealthPartners Specialty Center - Physical Therapy at 651-254-7700.