Nova Medical Group

Fibromyalgia Management Therapy

 

What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder of chronic widespread pain thought to be caused by neuro chemical dysfunction in the central nervous system leading to amplified pain signals.  Fibromyalgia is associated with generalized and localized muscular pain, reduced tolerance for activity, depression, anxiety, poor sleep, "foggy" thinking, and deconditioning. These symptoms may interfere with a person's ability to work, care for themselves, and participate in leisure activities. In combination with these symptoms, patients with Fibromyalgia tend to have a number of tender points.


Nova's Fibromyalgia Management Program

Our Fibromyalgia Management Program is based on the most recent research. A multi-disciplinary approach is the most effective way to allow our patients to reduce their pain and return to a more active lifestyle. Treatments include the integration of medicine, exercise, biofeedback, Oriental and naturopathic evaluation, nutrition, and massage therapy.   This approach addresses the symptoms and underlying pathology associated with Fibromyalgia. Periodic reassessments are performed to provide objective data regarding progress. Our medical providers approach patients with symptoms of Fibromyalgia using the following process:


Step 1: Patient will complete the preliminary diagnostic questionnaires.

 

Step 2: One of our specially trained Family Nurse Practitioners will perform a comprehensive evaluation to confirm that a correct diagnosis is made.


Step 3: One of our naturopathic doctors will perform an assessment to determine the best complementary treatments. 

 

Step 4: Meet with one of our Fibromyalgia Specialists - Dr. Hannah Phillips, Dr. Jee Eun Lee Karl, or Dr. Robin Donald - who will craft an individualized, integrated program including appropriate medication, naturopathy, exercise, biofeedback, and cognitive behavioral therapy for the patient.


Step 5: Return for periodic assessments and adjustment of therapies.


Our main goal is for you to attain a maximum level of function, returning to an active, productive lifestyle. 

 

Our Individualized Approach Includes:

 The optimization and monitoring of medication


 Lifestyle changes through proper therapeutic and aerobic exercise, including yoga and stretching


 Naturopathic and Oriental medicine modalities


 Postural and muscle re-education


 Trigger point injections


 Biofeedback / Cognitive Behavioral Therapy


 Nutritional Counseling


 Acupuncture


 Massage Therapy


 Myofascial Release


Utilizing this unique approach, we hope to:
 Decrease generalized and more localized pain levels


 Increase your aerobic conditioning and fitness


 Implement a proper home exercise program


 Employ mind/body techniques


 Minimize drug dependency


 Increase energy levels



Meet Our Team

For our Fibromyalgia Management program, board certified family physicians and nurse practitioners work hand-in-hand with our integrative health team to customize your therapy to meet your individual needs.

 

Fibromyalgia Specialists:

 

Integrative Health Specialists:

 

To read more about our certified massage thearpists, fitness instructors, and medical spa team, please click here.



Helpful Resources for the Patient:

 

 

Preliminary Patient Questionnaires:

 

Prior to beginning Nova's Fibromyalgia Management Program, each patient will be asked to complete the following questionnaires:

 

 

Fibromyalgia Managment Classes:

 

Join Naturopathic Doctor Sarah Giardenelli in Ashburn from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. for a 60-minute Fibromyalgia Management class, addressing natural treatment options for managing Fibromyalgia. The spring schedule is as follows: 

 

  • Saturday, March 9, 2013

  • Saturday, April 13, 2013
  • Saturday, May 11, 2013

 

Classes are $35 per person and registration is required.  Seating is limited.