Doctor, Tell Me the Truth… Please!

Fibromyalgia is a common form of arthritis that is characterized by generalized aches and pains, chronic fatigue, non-restorative sleep, and often other symptoms that suggest multi-system disease. Nowadays, more people than ever are looking for a natural way to improve their health and eliminate their symptoms.  People are also warming up to the notion that the body must be cared for as a highly integrated system, and not just independently functioning pieces and parts.  The face of health care is changing, and so is the treatment of fibromyalgia. 

Those who suffer from fibromyalgia stand at a cross roads… to get better or not.  And, it all seems to depend on how well trained their health care providers REALLY ARE.  Despite new and exciting discoveries, a number of myths still surround this condition:

Myth# 1: “Only women get FM.” Actually more than 5% of patients are men and that number appears to be increasing.

Myth#2: “Only adults get FM.” Actually, FM probably begins in childhood. “Growing pains” may actually be a form of fibromyalgia. Approximately, 2.5% of children seen in a pediatric rheumatology clinic setting have FM.

Myth# 3: “FM is only a form of arthritis.” FM, while often presenting as a musculoskeletal syndrome, is a disorder that has its roots in central nervous system neurotransmitter dysfunction. This dysfunction leads to multi-system complaints. That is why FM patients often have breathlessness, palpitations, bowel and bladder symptoms along with aches and pains.

Myth #4: “FM is a wastebasket term for when a doctor doesn’t know what to call it.” This is the most damaging of myths. Patients with FM have a real disorder. While the science is lagging behind as far as providing specific commonly used tests that may assist in diagnosis, there are multiple stereotypical signs and symptoms that demonstrate true objective abnormalities and can help trained physicians identify patients who have FM easily.

Myth#5: “There is no treatment for FM.” Nothing could be farther from the truth. While there is no one individual treatment that works well for everyone, there are multiple treatments that are usually effective. Most people respond to a combination of therapies, which is best prescribed by a health care provider well versed in FM management.

Myth# 6: “Patients with FM should avoid exercise.” False! If done too quickly or vigorously, exercise can be painful. However, if a graduated program that allows the patient to ease into exercise and allows them to progress at an acceptable pace is instituted, exercise is actually a cornerstone of proper FM treatment. The key is proper technique and pace. 

FM is a common problem.  Patients should have hope because FM can be managed successfully.  People who suspect they might have FM would be wise to seek out a health care provider that will not simply prescribe medication as the first and only option!  There is a CAUSE to fibromyalgia, and a lack of medication is NOT it!

Chances are you know one if not several people who suffer from FM.  Our new Fibromyalgia Seminar could change their life!  I am asking you to forward this email to anyone that might be interested in attending this Life Changing seminar.  We need your help in offering these people hope.  Be a hero and forward this on!

Read the 2nd Page of this newsletter RE: Antibacterial Soaps HERE

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

NEW Fibromyalgia Seminar July 23rd @ 6:30 pm

Guests welcomed & RSVP required.

You get 5 FREE massages for every person you get to the seminar!!!