Fibromyalgia
Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”). It affects an estimated 2–4% of the population, more commonly women.
Unlike conditions caused by joint or tissue damage, fibromyalgia is considered a nociplastic pain condition—meaning the nervous system is amplifying pain signals without clear evidence of injury or inflammation. The brain and spinal cord become hypersensitive, causing ordinary sensations to be experienced as painful.
Common Symptoms Include
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Widespread pain (often described as aching, burning, or throbbing)
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Fatigue and low energy
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Sleep problems (non-restorative sleep, insomnia)
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Cognitive symptoms (memory issues, difficulty concentrating)
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Sensitivity to light, noise, or temperature
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Co-occurring conditions: IBS, migraines, TMJ disorder, anxiety, and depression
What causes it?
The exact cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not fully understood. Research suggests that it arises from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Possible contributors include:
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Viral or bacterial infections that trigger long-term changes in the immune system
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Dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system (which controls heart rate, blood pressure, and energy regulation)
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Hormonal imbalances
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High levels of stress or trauma that impact brain-body communication
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Genetic susceptibility
In many people, CFS begins after an infection or stressful life event, but it persists due to changes in the way the nervous system processes signals related to energy, fatigue, and pain.
A Neuroplasticity-Based Approach
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change, adapt, and rewire itself. Since fibromyalgia pain comes from a sensitized nervous system, recovery is possible by teaching the brain to “turn down the volume” on pain signals. This is different from just masking pain with medications—neuroplasticity-based approaches aim to address the root cause.
At Menda, we use therapies that help retrain the brain and calm the nervous system. Approaches such as Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help reduce the brain’s fatigue signals and restore balance. By teaching the nervous system new, safer patterns, people can gradually rebuild their energy, resilience, and quality of life.
You don’t have to keep living with these symptoms. Explore Menda’s evidence-based therapies designed to rewire the brain and restore balance.
Key Neuroplasticity-Informed Strategies
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Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT): Helps the brain relearn that pain is safe, reducing fear and reprogramming pain pathways.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Changes unhelpful thought patterns, lowers stress, and reduces the impact of pain.
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Mindfulness and Relaxation Training: Calms the nervous system and reduces the “threat signals” that fuel fibromyalgia symptoms.
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Gentle Movement (yoga, tai chi, walking): Builds confidence, retrains the body-brain connection, and improves function without overloading the system.
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Pacing & Energy Management: Teaches the body to balance activity and rest, preventing flare-ups while still staying active.
Why Neuroplasticity Works
Pain is not just a signal from the body—it is an experience created in the brain. When the brain believes the body is under threat, it turns up the pain alarm. By changing how the brain interprets signals through therapy, movement, and stress reduction, the pain system can be “retrained.” Many patients report lasting improvements when they learn to shift their nervous system back into balance.
When to Seek Care
If pain, fatigue, or sleep problems are disrupting daily life, it’s worth reaching out for help. A clinician trained in fibromyalgia and chronic pain can guide you through a comprehensive plan, including neuroplasticity-based strategies, lifestyle changes, and supportive treatments. The earlier you start retraining your nervous system, the more likely you are to see improvements in function, mood, and overall quality of life.
