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Research
Posted By anchorwave On April 14, 2011 @ 3:11 am In | No Comments
Most of the research findings in fibromyalgia point to a malfunctioning of the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. Yet, there appear to be a variety of abnormalities occurring in the peripheral soft tissues (muscles and connective tissue) and the peripheral nervous system that communicates with the CNS. This dysfunctional interplay between the CNS and peripheral systems is believed by most investigators to be the source of the many body-wide symptoms. In a way, fibromyalgia could be considered a disease of the CNS.
Why do all of the above abnormalities exist in people with fibromyalgia? This is why research in this area is imperative.
However, various triggering events are thought to precipitate its onset. A few examples would be an infection (viral or bacterial), an automobile accident, an injury, surgery, or the development of another disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or hypothyroidism. These triggering events probably do not cause fibromyalgia, but rather, they may awaken an underlying physiological abnormality that is already present. In addition, several research studies are ongoing to determine the genetic (or inheritable) component of fibromyalgia.
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