Individuals suffering fibromyalgia complain of pain in many areas all over the body including the joints. "Human Psychopharmacology" describes the creation of fibromyalgia pain from a neuropathic source, or pain originated in the nervous system.
Abnormalities in Fibromyalgia
According to the Fibromyalgia Partnership, aching and burning occurs from "head to toe" in parts of the body used the most, and the joints also exhibit more pain. The pain of fibromyalgia emanates from the soft tissue and skin around the joints. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown.
Body Chemicals Involved
"The American Journal of Medicine" reports that problems in fibromyalgia involve pain processing by the brain and spinal cord using the chemicals of serotonin, norepineprine and dopamine. With this recent discovery, the Food and Drug Administration has approved drugs aimed at altering these chemicals to reduce pain in joints and other sites.
Treatment of Joint Pain
"Current Opinions in Rheumatology" outlines today's treatments for fibromyalgia. The drugs showing improvement in joint function and pain include lyrica, cymbalta, and milnacipran. Exercise regimens of group exercises, pool exercises and strength training produced an improvement in performing activities of daily life and decreased pain. Complementary therapies show conflicting results and remain outside suggested treatment.
References
- "Human Psychopharmacology"; Fibromyalgia-Pathways and Neurotransmitters; Stephen M. Stahl, June 2009
- Fibromyalgia Partnership: Fibromyalgia
- "The American Journal of Medicine"; Fibromyalgia Syndrome; L. M. Arnold and D. J. Clauw; June 2010
