Fibromyalgia Treatment Specialist in Wilkes-Barre, PA

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain affecting the muscles, ligaments, and tendons throughout the body. At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we understand that individuals with fibromyalgia often experience persistent fatigue, sleep disturbances, and increased sensitivity to pain—symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. Many patients also report associated issues such as headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, and cognitive difficulties often referred to as “fibro fog.”

While the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, research suggests it involves abnormal processing of pain signals in the brain and nervous system. The condition most commonly affects women between the ages of 30 and 60, but it can be diagnosed in anyone. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and a thorough exclusion of other medical conditions, as there are no definitive laboratory tests for fibromyalgia.

At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, our multidisciplinary team specializes in the diagnosis and management of fibromyalgia. We offer a personalized treatment approach that may include:

• Medication management to help reduce pain and improve sleep.
• Physical therapy and gentle exercise programs tailored to your abilities.
• Lifestyle modification guidance for better symptom control.
• Stress management and counseling to support emotional well-being.
• Ongoing support and education to empower patients in managing their condition.

Our goal is to help you achieve better pain control, improved function, and a higher quality of life. If you are living with widespread pain or suspect you may have fibromyalgia, contact Comprehensive Pain Specialists to schedule an evaluation and explore your options for comprehensive, compassionate care.

At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we understand that living with fibromyalgia can be overwhelming and life-altering. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal discomfort that often affects many areas of the body. Patients commonly describe their pain as a persistent, dull ache, accompanied by significant fatigue—even after a full night’s sleep.

Beyond pain and fatigue, individuals with fibromyalgia may struggle with sleep disturbances, such as trouble falling or staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrefreshed. Many also experience “fibro fog,” a term used to describe cognitive difficulties like memory lapses, poor concentration, and trouble focusing on mental tasks. Additional symptoms may include headaches (including migraines or tension-type headaches), morning stiffness, and unusual sensations such as numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Heightened sensitivity to temperature, lights, or sounds is also common.

At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we recognize that fibromyalgia does not affect everyone in the same way. Some people may also report symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)—which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits—and mood disorders, including anxiety and depression.

Our team takes a holistic, patient-centered approach to diagnosing and managing fibromyalgia. We carefully evaluate each patient’s unique combination of symptoms, which often include widespread pain lasting more than three months. Through a comprehensive assessment, we work with our patients to develop personalized treatment plans designed to improve quality of life and restore daily function. If you are experiencing persistent pain and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, Comprehensive Pain Specialists is here to help you find answers and relief.

At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we understand that diagnosing fibromyalgia can be a complex and often frustrating process for patients. Since there is no single test that confirms fibromyalgia, our pain management experts rely on a detailed and compassionate clinical evaluation to accurately identify this condition.

When you visit Comprehensive Pain Specialists, our team will begin by taking a thorough medical history, focusing on your symptoms—including the duration, intensity, and impact on your daily life. Key symptoms we look for include widespread musculoskeletal pain, persistent fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive symptoms like “fibro fog.” We recognize how these symptoms can interfere with your quality of life, and we are committed to listening closely to your experiences.

Our providers perform a comprehensive physical examination and may assess for areas of tenderness, although we now follow the latest diagnostic criteria, which emphasize the presence and severity of widespread pain and associated symptoms lasting at least three months. We utilize guidelines from respected organizations such as the American College of Rheumatology to inform our diagnosis, ensuring you receive care based on the most current standards.

Because fibromyalgia shares symptoms with other conditions—including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and thyroid disorders—our specialists may order laboratory tests or imaging studies to rule out these alternatives. While lab results are typically normal in fibromyalgia, these tests are important to make sure we are addressing the correct underlying cause of your pain.

At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, our goal is to provide a clear diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Open communication is essential throughout this process, and we encourage you to share any concerns or questions with our team. By working together, we strive to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

If you are experiencing widespread pain, fatigue, or other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, contact Comprehensive Pain Specialists today to schedule an evaluation with our experienced providers.

Living with fibromyalgia over the long term can bring about a range of physical, emotional, and social effects. One of the most persistent symptoms is widespread chronic pain, which can fluctuate in intensity but often remains a daily challenge. At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, our team understands how this ongoing pain can lead to increased stiffness, reduced physical activity, and even muscle weakness due to deconditioning.

Fatigue is another hallmark symptom that often persists or worsens with time. This constant tiredness can interfere with your ability to work, manage household responsibilities, or enjoy social activities. Many of our patients also report sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrefreshed. These sleep issues can further exacerbate fatigue and contribute to cognitive problems.

Cognitive difficulties—often called “fibro fog”—can become more pronounced over the years. These may include problems with memory, concentration, and mental clarity, which can affect both your professional and personal life. The ongoing strain of managing fibromyalgia may increase the risk of depression, anxiety, or mood swings.

Long-term fibromyalgia can also impact relationships and social life. You may find yourself withdrawing from friends and family due to pain, fatigue, or the unpredictability of symptoms, leading to feelings of isolation or frustration. Activities that were once enjoyable may become more challenging, affecting your sense of independence and well-being.

In addition, long-term use of certain medications or coping strategies can bring their own side effects or health concerns. Many individuals with fibromyalgia also experience related conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, or temporomandibular joint disorders.

At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we recognize that the impact of fibromyalgia is highly individual. Our multidisciplinary approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans, which may include medication management, physical therapy, behavioral health support, and lifestyle modifications. We are committed to helping you find effective management strategies so you can adapt and maintain the best possible quality of life.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, which can amplify how the brain processes pain signals. Comprehensive Pain Specialists under Dr. Youseff Josephson offers personalized, multimodal treatment plans that include medication management, physical therapy referrals, lifestyle adjustments, and interventional procedures like trigger point injections, aiming to improve quality of life without relying on chronic opioid use.

With ongoing support from our dedicated team, many people living with fibromyalgia are able to navigate the challenges of this condition and find ways to thrive. If you or a loved one is struggling with fibromyalgia, Comprehensive Pain Specialists is here to help you every step of the way. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 1177 PA-315, Dolphin Plaza, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. We serve patients from Wilkes-Barre PA, Glen Lyon PA, Dallas PA, Pittston PA, Mountain Top PA, Plymouth PA, and surrounding areas.