Research casts doubt on link between chronic fatigue, virus | Deseret News

I’d say I’ve always been a skeptical about the seemingly-simply virus explanation, but truth-be-told, I’m skeptical about most  explanations I’ve been given.  While I’d love to be able to simply explain my chronic health issues to family members and friends, I have yet to use any one explanation… I usually list three or four theories I’ve heard over the years.  And, frankly, I am likely far too proud to subscribe to one theory only to be told years later I’d been so set on said theory I missed the truth.  Is it just me?

Now, this is likely naive of me, but I can’t get over the fact that 17 studies have knocked down the theory.  Is this as high as it seems to me?  Maybe we can move on to researching a new theory, instead of just debunking old ones?  Based on the incredible experiences I’ve had over the last two years, I imagine the medical world could accomplish a lot in 17 separate studies.

Here’s something you may not know about me… while I was in college I participated in a clinical study relating to fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and pain tolerance.  It felt like something small I could do to help further our cause toward understanding, and hopefully a fix.  (I’d say cure, but the connotation seems so heroic that I feel like maybe it should be reserved for cancer, AIDS, etc.)

Anyway, you should read through this article, as well as those to which it links.  Let me know what you think about the road to uncovering the why behind our health issues.  And, let’s hear your wild ideas about what causes chronic fatigue (or chronic pain).

Nischan’s article closely echoes the advice I received during one of my recent trips to my chiropractor, Dr. Delilah.  He highlights body-friendly postures for driving, working, and sleeping and does a good job reminding you that the little things do, indeed, matter.

Before I left on vacation, Dr. Delilah strongly recommended I pay close attention to my posture.  She reminded me of the power seemingly small habits have to create muscle tension and pain.  She also reminded me how simple it can be to develop good habits and counteract and/or erase bad habits.

My sleep posture seems in line with the advice of both my chiropractor, and Jamie.  But my posture behind the wheel and at my desk need serious improvement.  In fact, my chiropractor believes my recent severe back pain can be lessened as I grow more aware of, and improve my driving posture.

Please give Nischan’s article a read, and let me know what you think.  And remember, don’t get overwhelmed.

I’m pretty sure being aware of your posture is the bulk of the battle.

I look forward to your feedback.

Read it.  It will motivate you.  And help you realize that despite our fears, our health struggles, our oddities… we can learn, achieve, and improve.

Happy reading fibrofolks.  I am so proud of us!

Last year I found The Fibromyalgia Research Blog and have since enjoyed reading ByTheBay’s posts regularly. I recommend the blog to those with fibromyalgia as well as those close to fibrofolks. The blog discusses research and studies relating to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue as well as various options for treatment and/or pain management. It is often the case that a post discusses a treatment option I have found helpful (like aquatic exercise) or explains and supports an observation I have made about fibro (extreme sensitivity to noise).

Since this latest flare-up began in early March I have begun the habit of additional reading and research about fibromyalgia. As I find interesting information I will be sure to bring it up in an “I Read:” post.