Complementarity of medical care and posturology in the management of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Publication date: June 2019Source: Neurophysiologie Clinique, Volume 49, Issue 3Author(s): Frédéric Viseux, Pascal Charpentier, Antoine LemaireFibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic and multi-faceted disease with an unknown aetiology. Clinical symptoms consisting of widespread pain, generalized muscular hypertonia, fatigue, sleep disturbances, impaired cognition and poor physical fitness compromise the autonomy, function and independence of these patients [1]. Postural control is affected and balance is impaired, leading to a greater risk and frequency of falls [2]. Pain in FMS may be associated with hyperexcitability of the nociceptive system and reduced opponent non nociceptive sensory process [3]. Although the pathophysiology of pain is unclear, an involvement of the thinly myelinated Aδ and the unmyelinated C-nerve fibers has been reported. An abnormal peripheral C nociceptor ongoing activity and increased mechanical sensitivity could contribute to the pain and tenderness suffered by patients with FMS. Routine engagement in physical exercise is strongly recommended for pain management in musculoskeletal conditions such as FMS. Adherence to exercise in patients with FMS is poor and the majority of them are sedentary. Prolonged sedentary behaviour may contribute to physical deconditioning and a loss of confidence in one's ability to participate in physical activity, which reinforces the cycle of pain and disability. Understanding the factors involved in pain mechanism ...
Source: Neurophysiologie Clinique - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research