New research from two prominent medical journals confirm a relationship between Small Fiber Neuropathy and Fibromyalgia. The studies show objective evidence that at least some cases of fibromyalgia are due to a measurable nerve disorder that causes neuropathic pain. 

These insights reinforce the idea that treatments for neuropathic pain may also help many patients with a fibromyalgia diagnosis.  Consequently, some patients with a diagnosis of fibromyalgia will benefit from further nerve testing.

For more details on the studies, visit the following journals:

Journal of the International Association for the Study of Pain

Brain: A Journal of Neurology

Electrical brain stimulation is making a comeback…in a gentler, softer, yet effective way. Robert J. Friedman M.D., Medical Director at BrainStim Health & TMS Center and Headache & Pain Center of Palm Beach, believes that new brain stimulation systems can provide new treatment options for many types of patients. According to Dr. Robert J. Friedman, “There are many new potential uses for tDCS and other types of noninvasive brain stimulation.” These treatments may provide effective, non-drug therapy for patients suffering from depression, chronic pain, and even neurological disorders. Studies are currently being conducted.

The recently published article, “Electric Brain Stimulation Gains Ground,” by Victoria Colliver, gives a view into the new, innovative therapies using brain stimulation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION | “Electric Brain Stimulation Gains Ground,” by Victoria Colliver (Full Article)

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

Chronic pain is pain that lasts beyond expected healing. Many patients experience continuing pain despite conventional treatments such as medication, physical therapy, injections, and even surgery. If you are suffering from this refractory type of chronic pain, neuromodulation therapies such as Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) may be an option.

tDCS is a type of Neuromodulation therapy designed to alter the way the nervous system (nerves, spinal cord, and/or brain) transmits messages, such as the pain messages that occur when pain nerve cells are stimulated or damaged. Other types of neuromodulation include spinal cord stimulation for refractory pain, and transcranial magnetic stimulation, an FDA-approved treatment for depression that is currently being evaluated in the treatment of chronic pain.