Fibromyalgia Treatment Southampton
Fibromyalgia Treatment at Southampton Physio
At Southampton Physio, we understand how fibromyalgia can affect your daily life, causing widespread pain, fatigue, and emotional distress. Our mission is to empower you to live more comfortably, regain confidence in your movement, and enjoy the activities you love. With a personalised, patient-centred approach, we are here to provide the care and support you need to manage fibromyalgia effectively.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. It is often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and heightened sensitivity to pain. While the exact cause is not fully understood, fibromyalgia is believed to involve changes in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, making even mild stimuli feel painful. Although fibromyalgia can affect anyone, it is more commonly diagnosed in women and often develops during middle age. The condition is not progressive or life-threatening, but its symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
- Widespread musculoskeletal pain
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Sleep disturbances or non-restorative sleep
- Cognitive difficulties, often referred to as “fibro fog”
- Headaches or migraines
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Sensitivity to light, noise, or temperature
What Conditions are Linked to Fibromyalgia?
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME): A condition characterised by severe, persistent fatigue that worsens after physical or mental activity.
- Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders: People with hypermobility may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia due to shared pain sensitivity mechanisms.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Digestive symptoms are frequently reported in those with fibromyalgia.
- Depression and Anxiety: Emotional health challenges are common and can intensify pain perception and fatigue.
Diagnosis and Assessment
- Reviewing your medical history and symptoms
- Identifying tender points and areas of pain
- Evaluating sleep quality, fatigue, and other contributing factors
- Excluding other conditions with similar symptoms, such as arthritis or hypothyroidism
Physiotherapy Treatment Options
- Gentle Exercise Programmes: Designed to improve flexibility, strength, and endurance without exacerbating symptoms.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, reducing pain.
- Education and Lifestyle Advice: Guidance on pacing activities, managing flare-ups, and improving sleep hygiene.
- Group Classes: Supportive sessions focusing on gentle movement, mindfulness, and relaxation.
- Stress Management Techniques: Breathing exercises and relaxation methods to reduce the impact of stress on symptoms.
Who Can Benefit from Our Services in Southampton?
- Experience persistent, widespread pain and fatigue
- Struggle with disrupted sleep and energy levels
- Feel limited in daily activities due to “fibro fog” or discomfort
- Are looking for a tailored, compassionate approach to managing symptoms
Preventive Measures and Self-Care
- Pacing Activities: Balancing activity and rest to prevent overexertion.
- Stress Reduction: Incorporating relaxation techniques into daily routines.
- Regular Movement: Engaging in gentle exercises, such as walking or yoga, to maintain mobility.
- Sleep Hygiene: Developing habits to improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue.
Why Choose Southampton Physio for Fibromyalgia Treatment?
- Patient-Centred Care: We take the time to understand your unique challenges and goals.
- Holistic Approach: Our treatments address physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors to achieve lasting results.
- Experienced Team: Our physiotherapists and osteopaths specialise in managing long-term conditions with empathy and expertise.
- Supportive Environment: We foster a welcoming space where you can feel comfortable and cared for throughout your recovery.
How We Can Help
At Southampton Physio, we are committed to helping you manage fibromyalgia in a way that suits your lifestyle. With a focus on improving your physical health and emotional wellbeing, we aim to provide lasting relief and support. Take the first step towards feeling more in control. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and discover how our personalised fibromyalgia treatments can help you move, rest, and live more comfortably.