Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by pain, tenderness and stiffness in various “pressure points” of the body, most frequently the neck, shoulders, chest, legs and lower back.
Other associated symptoms include sleep disorders, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems and depression. About 80% affected are women, the highest incidence between the ages of 20-40 years. Pain tends to be worse in the morning, improving throughout the day and then worsening again at night. Those with Fibromyalgia suffer from moderate to severe pain and loss of day-to-day functioning. The role of Pedorthics is to help make ambulating and by extension, exercising, as comfortable as possible.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness in affected “pressure point” areas
- Heightened sensitivity to sound, smell, light, etc.
- Sensation of swelling in hands and feet, even though swelling may not be present
- Numbness and tingling
Signs to look for:
- Pain and tenderness in affected “pressure point” areas
- Sleep disorder
- Muscle tightness, soreness and spasms
- Pattern of pain in the morning that improves during the day and worsens again at night
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- TMJ syndrome (jaw pain)
Possible Causes:
- No known specific cause, although research indicates causation could be from an autonomic nervous system disorder, chronic sleep disorder, immune or endocrine system dysfunction, infection, or emotional stress
- May run in families
- May be associated with diminished blood flow to certain parts of the brain and increased amounts of a neurotransmitter which affects pain and touch
Goals:
- Address exercise components, (exercise is key to reducing pain, aiding sleep, increasing blood circulation, reducing depressive symptoms)
- Address posture and balance issues
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
- Lyncos orthotic if the above supports can’t be tolerated
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Shoes with stretchable uppers if top of feet tender
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Only wear pumps and high heels as absolutely necessary
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
Activities:
- Regular exercise program that promotes increased strength and circulation in lower extremities
- Regular stretching program for entire body
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: PodiatryChannel.com, FMNetNews.com