At Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants in Encinitas and Oceanside, CA, Dr. Nathan Perrizo brings a unique background in osteopathic medicine and served as a Senior Medical Officer in the U.S. Navy before completing advanced training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and a fellowship in Interventional Pain Management at UCLA. He is board-certified in both specialties and applies a multidisciplinary, minimally invasive approach to treating fibromyalgia and related chronic pain conditions.
Common Myths About Fibromyalgia
There are many misunderstandings about this complex chronic pain disorder. Knowing the truth helps people better support themselves or others dealing with the condition:
- “It’s just in your head.” The CDC and other medical organizations recognize fibromyalgia as a legitimate chronic disorder.
- “It’s only about muscle pain.” While pain is a primary symptom, fibromyalgia can also involve fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive issues (sometimes called “fibro fog”).
- “Only women get fibromyalgia.” While more common in women, men and children can also be diagnosed.
- “There is a cure.” There is no known cure, but many treatment options exist to help manage and reduce symptoms.
Understanding these myths is the first step to having informed conversations and making progress with proper care.
What Fibromyalgia Isn’t
It’s important to clarify what this condition is not, especially for those navigating a diagnosis or supporting a loved one. Fibromyalgia is not:
- An autoimmune disease like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Easily diagnosed with a single test — it’s based on symptoms and ruling out other causes.
- A sign of weakness or laziness.
- Something that will always get worse. Many patients improve with the right plan.
Differentiating fibromyalgia from other disorders helps patients feel more validated and less alone.
Facts About Fibromyalgia That Matter
To truly grasp what fibromyalgia is, consider some of these essential truths about the condition:
- It affects the nervous system: Research shows fibromyalgia is linked to how the brain processes pain signals.
- It can cause widespread symptoms: Beyond pain, patients often experience fatigue, poor sleep, sensitivity to stimuli, and gastrointestinal distress.
- It’s influenced by external factors: Stress, weather changes, and overexertion can trigger or worsen symptoms.
- Movement matters: Regular low-impact physical activity is one of the most helpful tools for managing fibromyalgia.
While the causes aren’t fully understood, medical professionals now approach treatment through education, lifestyle adjustments, and interventional care.
Find Clarity and Support with Experts Who Understand
If you’ve been overwhelmed by misconceptions about fibromyalgia, it may be time to speak with a provider who listens and guides you toward answers. Contact Pacific Pain Medicine Consultants at 760-753-1104 to learn more about your symptoms and explore your best options for relief.
