Physical therapists help people move through fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive issues. It can be difficult to manage and can severely impact quality of life.

Nearly 5 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with this chronic condition. It usually shows up between the ages of 30 and 50, and 80% to 90% of the people affected are women. There is no cure, but a combination of exercise, modalities and education can help manage symptoms.

Physical therapists are well known as experts in exercise, so they’re an obvious choice when it comes to helping people with fibromyalgia

The right exercise routine can help these patients with pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, depression, and more.

A combination of strengthening, stretching and aerobic exercise is the most effective. Patients and therapists work together to find the right type and intensity of exercise to best manage symptoms.

Therapists also have a large choice of other treatments to help people with fibromyalgia. Gentle manual therapy and massage have been shown to help reduce pain and muscle stiffness. Physical therapists also use modalities such as electrical stimulation, laser, biofeedback, and dry needling in states where it is allowed.

In addition to land-based exercise, some clinics also have the option of aquatic therapy. This combines the benefits of exercise with the warmth of a therapeutic pool.

Because physical therapists spend so much time with their patients, they can handle the education component, too. They help people with fibromyalgia understand what’s going on, and what they can do about it.

Research shows that people with more knowledge about their condition have better outcomes, more confidence, and cope better.

Physical therapists help people with pain management, strength, mobility, fatigue and function to relieve their symptoms and improve the quality of their lives.

While there’s no cure for fibromyalgia, people can move through it with the right help.

For more information call Physical Therapy Today at 806-771-8008.

Christian Women to meet April 11

Lubbock Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon, “Bloom Where You Are Planted,” is set for April 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lubbock Country Club, 3400 Mesa Drive.

Barb Mulvey of Albuquerque, New Mexico, will speak on Beauty for Ashes. Special music will be by Stephen Sanders.

Cost for the luncheon, program and door prizes is $20.

It is important to RSVP by noon, April 7, to LubbockCWC@gmail.com or Sharen at 806-392-0264.

Reservations not used should be shared or paid for at the next luncheon.

The state-wide mobile tour consisted of a Texas Techbranded trailer displaying a 22-foot-long version of the Centennial logo. It made stops at Centennial events, high schools across the state, and designated alumni association chapter gatherings. The tour ran for one month from Feb. 28 to March 28.