Fibromyalgia vs. Multiple Sclerosis: What’s the Difference?

Chronic pain is one of the most pressing issues facing the medical system today. Two of the most common causes of chronic pain include multiple sclerosis, usually shortened to MS, and fibromyalgia. Even though discomfort is a common theme in both conditions, they are very different. What are the differences between fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis? What are the treatment options available? Let’s take a closer look at a few important points…

An Overview of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that impacts the functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Even though it does cause chronic pain, fibromyalgia can also lead to memory problems, mood issues, fatigue, and drowsiness. Even though medical researchers do not yet understand the exact cause of fibromyalgia, it can present differently in different people.

For example, “fibro fog” is one of the most common conditions of fibromyalgia. It’s responsible for the changes in focus and memory that people experience. It is also not unusual for people with fibromyalgia to develop depression.

In addition to musculoskeletal pain, chronic fatigue is another significant concern among individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia. For this reason, it is important to work with a healthcare professional who has experience treating this condition.

An Overview of Multiple Sclerosis

Another possible cause of chronic pain is multiple sclerosis. This is an autoimmune neurological condition that targets the myelin sheath that protects the nerves throughout the body.

In essence, the immune system attacks the healthy myelin that coats the nerves throughout the body. As myelin continues to degrade, the nerves do not function as they should. As a result, people who suffer from multiple sclerosis can develop a wide variety of nerve problems.

For example, people who suffer from multiple sclerosis may have a hard time walking. Coordination and balance are significant concerns. Double vision is another common issue among people who suffer from multiple sclerosis. Some people even have difficulty talking. When all of this is combined with chronic pain, multiple sclerosis has the potential to significantly impact someone’s overall quality of life.

A Chiropractor Can Treat Both Conditions

Even though these conditions present differently, a chiropractor has the ability to treat both of them. Even though a lot of people believe they need to visit a surgeon or undergo a dangerous procedure to treat these conditions, this is not always the case. There are holistic, natural ways to treat chronic pain.

A chiropractor will work with someone individually to develop a treatment plan that has been customized to meet their needs. Then, a chiropractor will make sure to use treatment methods that target the underlying cause of all of these issues. That way, it is possible to not only treat the symptoms but also prevent them from coming back.

In this manner, a chiropractor can reduce the chances of complications and side effects while treating multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. This is why it’s important to speak to a chiropractor about the treatment options available for chronic pain.

Rely on the Help of a Chiropractor for Help with MS and Fibromyalgia

Ultimately, it is important for you to reach out to a chiropractor if you are suffering from chronic discomfort. Even though two possible causes are multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis so you can develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

If you are looking for someone who can help you manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia or multiple sclerosis, give us a call. Our Doctor of Chiropractic can help you minimize complications and side effects while placing yourself in the best position possible to recover. So give us a call. We’re here to help!

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