Hello Doctor,
I’m in my 40s with chronic muscle pain, mainly in my neck and shoulders, but also in other muscles when used more. I experience stiffness and feel the urge to stretch. Despite seeing specialists, undergoing tests, and following physical therapy for six months, I’ve only been told it’s muscle weakness and that strengthening is the solution. I’ve also improved my posture and replaced my chair and mattress. Is strengthening the only answer? Why do I have this issue when others seem unaffected?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
1. Based on the symptoms you're describing, including chronic muscle pain, stiffness, and a lack of improvement despite strength exercises and lifestyle adjustments, it’s possible you may have fibromyalgia. This is a chronic condition that affects the entire body, often causing widespread pain, tenderness, and fatigue.
2. It can also result in muscle stiffness and discomfort in various areas, including the neck, shoulders, and other skeletal muscles. The exact cause of fibromyalgia isn't fully understood, but it’s believed to involve abnormal pain processing in the brain and nervous system.
3. While strengthening exercises are generally recommended, fibromyalgia requires a multifaceted approach, including pain management, stress reduction techniques, and sometimes medication. I would suggest discussing this possibility with your doctor for further evaluation and to explore a treatment plan tailored to your condition.
Thanks
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