Fibromyalgia is a multi-system condition that might require you to visit other doctors in addition to your primary care physician. Below is a list of specialists that you might need to see and why.
It is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses your particular symptoms. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor to refer you to these specialists if you feel you need to see one.
Doctors For Fibromyalgia
Primary Care Physician (PCP):
Your primary care physician is your first line of defense. You need to develop an open and positive relationship with this doctor because they are going to be overseeing your care. If you have a HMO, you're going to need them to refer you to all specialists. If you're not comfortable with your primary care physician, keep looking.
Rheumatologist:
A Rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases affecting joints, muscles, and bones. Your PCP will more than likely refer you to a Rheumatologist in order to officially diagnose you with Fibromyalgia since it is their area of specialty. A Rheumatologist should be abreast of the newest treatments being used and which therapies work best since they probably have a good amount of Fibromyalgia Patients.
Pain management specialist:
Pain Management Specialists deal with the treatment of chronic pain conditions through pain medications. It is very important that you have a contentious pain management specialist because pain medications have serious side effects and the possibility of addiction. You need to be careful when taking medication and a good Pain Management Specialist will ensure your safety.
Pain Management Specialists will also do Trigger Point Injection therapy which is sometimes recommended for Fibromyalgia Pain Relief.
Physical therapist:
Physical therapists specialize in the physical treatment and management of disease or condition. Low impact exercise is essential to feeling better with Fibromyalgia and a physical therapist can help you acclimate yourself to exercise. Just remember to listen to your body and don't let them talk you into anything that causes you pain.
Psychiatrist:
A Psychiatrist specializes in mental disorders. Anxiety and depression are often associated with Fibromyalgia and a psychiatrist (specifically a cognitive-behavior psychiatrist) is a great avenue to helping patient's overcome both of these problems.
Another area that is explored for helping Fibromyalgia pain is emotional and spiritual healing.
Chiropractor:
A Chiropractor focus on the misalignment of the spine and how it disrupts the neurological communications between your brain and our bodies. In layman's terms, when the spine is properly aligned, everything falls into place and functions properly. If your spine is misaligned, your muscles aren't lying properly on your body and your nerves become aggravated. This can cause pain.
Keep in mind: Not all chiropractors are created equal. I've been to chiropractors who are all about the money and not about healing. Your chiropractor should listen to you, never hurt you and you must have your own appointment. Get a referral to a chiropractor from someone who has used them.
Allergist:
An Allergist specialize in allergies and how our bodies react to them. Many Fibromyalgia patients also suffer from allergies and other autoimmune conditions. I personally suffer from urticaria (chronic hives). If you suffer from allergies, it is another issue that is negatively impacting your immune system.
Allergists can offer you relief in the form of anti-histamines and allergy shots that can reduce your allergies altogether. By minimizing any allergies you might be experiencing, your Fibromyalgia symptoms will in theory improve because you are eliminating one less "problem" that your body is currently handling.
Endocrinologist:
Endocrinologists specialize on disorders of the glands. The reason they are important to Fibromyalgia patients is because we often have thyroid issues. My urticaria is cause by an autoimmune condition that is related to my thyroid.
Gynocologist:
A gynocologist specializes in women's reproductive health. Every woman should see a gynocologist for their yearly exam. The reason why a gynocologist is important for a woman with Fibromyalgia is because we often have menstruation and sexual issues. Many women with Fibromyalgia have:
Abnormal menstrual cycles
Severe cramps
Lack of ovulation
Sexual dysfunction: lack of libido, internal vaginal pain during intercourse
A gynocologist can help you with all of these issues.
Gastroenterologist:
A Gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive system. If you have Fibromyalgia, it is more than likely you also suffer from Irritable Bowl Syndrome. If that is the case, this is the doctor to see for guidance and treatment.
Acupuncturist:
Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese practice of inserting needles into the skin to treat what ails us. Some Acupuncturists also use electrical currents in their practice.
Doctors often refer Fibromyalgia patients to acupuncturists for pain management as a safe alternative to medication.
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