The Connection Between Physical Trauma And Fibromyalgia
Most accident victims will expect some pain and discomfort in the days immediately following a car crash or a slip and fall. What they don’t always anticipate is the development of long-term chronic pain conditions that can alter the quality of their lives. One such condition, Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS), is a complex disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disorders, and cognitive difficulties.
According to research published in the Journal of Rheumatology, physical trauma in the preceding six months is significantly associated with the onset of FMS. This finding has important implications for individuals who suffer injuries in auto accidents, workplace incidents, or slip and falls. In this article, the Jacksonville personal injury attorneys at Gillette Law will discuss the relationship between physical trauma and the onset of FMS.
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that impacts approximately 4 million adults in the United States alone. It is characterized by:
- Persistent widespread pain
- Fatigue and sleep problems
- Difficult concentrating (called “fibro fog”)
- Heightened sensitivity to pain
While the exact cause of FMS has yet to be determined, experts believe it involves abnormal pain processing in the brain and spinal cord. Trauma (even emotional trauma) is considered one of the most significant triggers for its onset.
How does trauma trigger fibromyalgia?
Serious accidents, such as car crashes, slip and falls, or heavy impact injuries, place tremendous strain on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. For some folks, this trauma can lead to long-term changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals. Essentially, the brain and spinal cord become more sensitive, amplifying pain even when no injury is present.
In fact, studies indicate that fibromyalgia often develops within months of a traumatic event. For example, a victim of a car accident who initially suffers whiplash or soft tissue injuries
In fact, studies show that fibromyalgia often develops within months of a traumatic event. For example, a car accident victim who initially suffers whiplash or soft tissue injuries may later develop chronic pain and cognitive issues consistent with fibromyalgia.
Legal challenges for those with fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can be difficult to prove in personal injury cases. Insurance companies often dispute claims, arguing that the symptoms are subjective or unrelated to the accident. Medical research, on the other hand, clearly supports the connection between trauma and the onset of fibromyalgia. Courts are increasingly recognizing the connection as well. An experienced personal injury lawyer can:
- Collect medical records documenting your trauma and subsequent symptoms
- Consult with rheumatologists, neurologists, and pain specialists
- Demonstrate how fibromyalgia has impaired the victim’s capacity to work and enjoy their life
- Calculate damages for ongoing medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering
Talk to a Jacksonville, FL, Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Gillette Law represents the interests of those injured due to another person’s negligence. Call our Jacksonville, FL, personal injury lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your lawsuit right away.
Source:
jrheum.org/?utm_
