Reduce Fibromyalgia Pain With PT YES, YOUR HOME EXERCISE PLAN MATTERS!
Though fibromyalgia affects roughly 4 million American adults, experts still have many unanswered questions about the condition. But while there is no cure for fibromyalgia, people who suffer from it are not helpless and can find some relief from their symptoms. In honor of National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day on May 12, we want to share physical therapy’s benefits for many patients. Researchers do not know the cause of fibromyalgia, though studies suggest that the condition reflects a change in how a person’s nervous system processes pain. Risk factors include rheumatoid arthritis, infection, obesity, and physical or emotional trauma. But the most predictive factor is sex — approximately 80%–90% of fibromyalgia patients are women. Fibromyalgia can develop suddenly or slowly over time. The primary sign of the condition is widespread pain across the body with multiple “tender points.” But fibromyalgia produces many other symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and memory problems. People with fibromyalgia are more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety, and many experience stomach or jaw pain. Various symptoms may come and go over time. Fortunately, multiple studies have shown that exercise significantly benefits people with fibromyalgia. But many sufferers are afraid to start because they worry about worsening their pain. Working with an experienced physical therapist can provide comfort and reassurance that the activity will not harm them. Physical therapists help fibromyalgia patients begin exercising slowly and safely, building their strength and endurance with time. A physical therapist will assess the
patient’s current level of fitness and pain and design a customized program with realistic goals. With consistent treatment, patients can reduce pain and fatigue while improving their mood and sleep. Unfortunately, a body not used to physical movement often feels pain after beginning a new exercise routine.
But a physical therapist can guide patients through the process so they know what to expect and how treatment will benefit them over time. Physical therapists can also provide pain reduction techniques, perform deep tissue massage, or provide hot or cold therapy. Physical therapy will not cure fibromyalgia or eliminate the disease’s symptoms, but it is among the most promising treatments currently available. Many people with fibromyalgia report feeling more energetic and experiencing less pain after treatment. If you’re curious about how physical therapy might be able to help you or a loved one, call Horizon Physical Therapy today to schedule a consultation!
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Ginger Pork Stir-Fry
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
Looking for a healthy stir-fry that has all of the delicious flavors and none of the heavy ingredients? This one might be perfect for you!
Ingredients
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1 tbsp cornstarch 1 cup orange juice 2 tbsp soy sauce
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2 tbsp canola oil
1 small onion, sliced 1/4 lb fresh snow peas
2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 sweet red pepper, julienned
Cooked rice
1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into thin strips
Green onion, chopped (optional)
Sesame seeds (optional)
Directions 1. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch, orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until smooth; set aside. 2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, stir-fry pork in oil until lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove pork and add onion, peas, and red pepper. Cook until crisp-tender, about 3–5 minutes. 3. Stir in orange juice mixture and pork. Bring to a boil, and then cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Serve over rice. Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds, if desired.
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