SpineSix Therapy Gentle Enough For Fibromylgia Patients

In the United States alone, 10 million people suffer from Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS), which is characterized by chronic widespread muscle pain and abnormal pain processing. Women are more apt to suffer from FMS, 75-90% of the cases are women; FMS is often seen in family histories. Some people will have genetic factors that may predispose them to FMS, they will then have an illness or injury that will trigger the Syndrome.

Recent research has shown that Fibromyalgia patients process pain differently that others without the Syndrome. One cause may be, Substance P, a neuropeptide contained in the cerebral spinal fluid, is 3 times the level of patients without FMS, this in turn causes the FMS patients to experience pain more intensely. Some of the other symptoms of FMS are sleep disturbances, depression , “fibrofog” (inability to think clearly) and chronic fatique. Some Physicians believe FMS and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are the same disorder, as the fatigue suffered by FMS patients can become quite disabling.

There is no test to diagnose Fibromyalgia, the patient must have chronic widespread pain for greater than 3 months and be sensitive in 11 out of 18 tender points located throughout the four quadrants of their body. (See National Fibromyalgia Association website for more specific details.) Many fibromyagia patients suffer from chronic back pain and neck pain, and many can not tolerate traditional treatment methods. For some discouraged patients it takes an average of five years to reach a diagnosis, as symptoms of FMS overlap other disorders.

At this time, there is no cure for FMS, therefore the treatment is tailored to adaptation of the patient’s lifestyle. Pain management techniques may include drugs specific for FMS, non-narcotic pain relievers, antidepressants and psychological support. Sleep management is important for the fatigue symptoms. Alternative treatments may include massage, acupuncture, yoga, osteopathic or chiropractic manipulation. Physical Therapy modalities may also be very helpful in treatment. Exercise is beneficial, but must be gentle and to the patient’s tolerance. Pool therapy is a treatment option for FMS patients, allows for gentle exercising in a soothing setting.

SpineSix BioMotion Spinal System® would also be a great therapy adjunct. SpineSix allows for computer controlled motion therapy in a non-weight bearing environment. The patient’s cervical and lumbar spine is treated to motion therapy in clinician prescribed range-of-motion “figure 8” movements. The SpineSix’s patient pause switch allows the patient to be in full control of their treatment, if they become uncomfortable or distressed they simply push the switch and the SpineSix stops all movements. This gentle therapy increases blood flow, range-of-motion, flexibility and may in turn allow the patient to increase their daily activities with decreased levels of pain.

This Blog is maintained by MediCepts, Inc, manufacturer of the SpineSix.All content has been provided by employees of MediCepts, Inc.

SpineSix BioMotion Spinal System® is an FDA Class 1 medical device. For more information visit www.spinesix.com or call 1-772-781-1184.