Fibromyalgia is a condition that is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain along with other symptoms like memory problems, mood swings, fatigue and insomnia. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but researchers believe that people with the disorder do not process pain signals correctly. Chronic pain treatment in Agoura Hills is symptom-based and includes counseling and stress reduction.

Is it Fibromyalgia?

When diagnosing fibromyalgia, doctors review the person’s presentation and pain along 18 trigger points on the body. Often times, people with fibromyalgia also suffer from mental illness and have psychosomatic symptoms like chronic fatigue, lack of motivation, extreme emotional reactions and trauma- and stress-related issues.

Because fibromyalgia has no direct cause, no cure and is often linked with other mental health disorders, it’s no surprise that some people with this condition self-medicate. Sadly, abusing drugs and alcohol not only puts a person at risk for addiction but also worsens the symptoms of mental illness and fibromyalgia.

Alternative Ways to Treat Fibromyalgia

Medication can be helpful in treating fibromyalgia pain, but realize that opioids are not effective and can actually make things worse. Instead, antidepressants, anticonvulsants and over-the-counter pain relievers are recommended for treating fibromyalgia pain.

Awakenings Treatment Center is a dual diagnosis rehab in California that works with people who have fibromyalgia and substance abuse. Below are the treatments and therapies we recommend to our clients, and all are offered at our trauma treatment center.

• Researchers have found that people with fibromyalgia who participate in yoga have better moods and less pain. Yoga is believed to be helpful because of the gentle poses, meditation and deep breathing exercises.
• Acupuncture involves inserting needles into certain points along the body to promote self-healing, encourage more blood flow and increase neurotransmitters. If you cannot tolerate needles, acupressure may be an option.
• Neurofeedback treatment helps people learn about body functions and how to control them. This therapy is commonly used for chronic pain patients because it incorporates relaxation exercises like deep breathing, meditation, guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation.
• Massage therapy. Fibromyalgia pain responds well to massage therapy. By kneading the muscles and joints, circulation is improved, the flow of nutrients is increased and waste products are released.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT helps people set realistic goals. Clients work on identifying harmful thought patterns and developing techniques to manage them.
• Art therapy. Art therapy helps people find comfort, relaxation and healing from emotional challenges. It’s also an excellent outlet for releasing anger and frustration.

Fibromyalgia and Substance Abuse: You are Not Alone

Fibromyalgia can be an isolating and frustrating condition. But, you are not alone. Whether you have had struggled with substance abuse in the past, or you have developed an addiction from being misdiagnosed or mistreated, Awakenings Treatment Center can help. Our chronic pain treatment center serves people who need extra support while transitioning to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.