Fibromyalgia is a disorder of the central nervous system that afflicts more than 10 million Americans, and brings on symptoms that include chronic pain, stiffness and cognitive issues. The cause of this condition remains a mystery to scientific researchers, and patients are often misdiagnosed and improperly treated as a result. Fortunately for older Americans who struggle with this condition, senior care services can help facilitate more effective treatments to give you a more pain-free lifestyle.

While the causes of fibromyalgia remain elusive to medical researchers, doctors are beginning to understand how this disease effects the body. The chronic pain in muscles and joints comes as a result of misinterpreted or exaggerated nerve signals in the brain and spinal cord. This phenomenon gives patients a heightened sense of pain in certain areas of the body.

Fortunately, there are a few easy treatment options that can help reduce pain felt by patients. Certain antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs have been shown to improve neurotransmitter function to limit pain and stiffness, but a more natural approach is to simply begin a regular fitness regimen. Exercise has the unique ability to cause an increase in certain bodily chemicals that promote feelings of happiness and well-being, which can in turn improve neurotransmitter and receptor function in the brain limiting chronic pain felt by those afflicted with the disease.