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CLINICAL SYMPTOMS
If you think it's arthritis, but it's
not, then it just might be fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS).
FMS mimics arthritis, but differs in that it is not an
inflammation of the joint spaces. read more...... |
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Judith Koch, NCTMB
Nationally Certified
Massage Therapist
(866) 328-9703
Massage Video Sales is approved by the National Certification Board for
Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork as a continuing education provider
under Category A. |
   
FIBROMYALGIA Key Words
Immune response: The reaction
of the immune system against foreign substances. When this
reaction occurs against substances or tissues within the
body, it is called an autoimmune reaction.
Immune system: A complex system
that normally protects the body from infections. It combines
groups of cells, the chemicals that control them, and the
chemicals they release. |
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Who has
fibromyalgia?
In
North America, the estimates are that 5% of the adult population
has fibromyalgia. As many as 90% of the patients are female. While
fibromyalgia can start in childhood, the incidence of fibromyalgia
is found to increase with age. One book estimated that eight
percent of the school population exhibits symptoms of juvenile
fibromyalgia. 
Physiological changes in fibromyalgia patients’ brain chemistry
Measurable changes occur in the brain chemistry of fibromyalgia
patients, including the following:
Substance P, a neurotransmitting hormone that increases the sensitivity of nerves
to pain, is increased.
Serotonin, a
neurotransmitter than reduces sensitivity to pain and affects
sleeping patterns, and is significantly decreased. Lack of
serotonin is also linked to depression
The brain absorbs less
glucose, contributing to “fibrofog” or foggy mental state that a
majority of fibromyalgia patients experience
Parts of the brain that
control both movement and memory have less circulation than in
healthy humans
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