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| Mary Kneiser image credit: medicmagic.net |
More than 6 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread muscle and joint pain and fatigue. Physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, like Dr. Mary Kneiser, note that fibromyalgia is the most common musculoskeletal condition after osteoarthritis. Nonetheless, it is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.
Below are some myths about fibromyalgia and the truth behind them.
Fibromyalgia affects only women and older adults.
Fibromyalgia strikes both sexes and people of all ages. Although it occurs in about 1 in 30 women, it also afflicts men, 1 in 200. Meanwhile, the risk of developing fibromyalgia increases as one gets older.
Fibromyalgia is caused by depression.
Fibromyalgia is not caused by depression. Anxiety and depression are among the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.
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| Mary Kneiser image credit: uvahealth.com |
Among the conditions treated by physiatrists, like Dr. Mary Kneiser, include spinal cord injury and musculoskeletal pain syndromes like fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is not real.
Fibromyalgia is an illness recognized by healthcare professionals. Back in the 1800s, physicians wrote about “muscular rheumatism,” a condition characterized by fatigue, stiffness, aches, pains, and sleep disturbances. The current term was coined in 1976. Fibromyalgia is one of the most common types of chronic widespread pain.
Fibromyalgia is fatal.
Fibromyalgia is not life-threatening, but living with chronic widespread pain can be tough. With proper treatment, people with fibromyalgia can see symptoms improve.
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| Mary Kneiser image credit: abilityassessments.com |
There is hope for people suffering from fibromyalgia. Rehabilitation specialists, like Dr. Mary Kneiser, can help those in pain. Visit www.abilityassessments.com for additional details.
