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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
December 18, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences when asked about the benefits of working with a rheumatologist for fibromyalgia, with many noting that while... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences when asked about the benefits of working with a rheumatologist for fibromyalgia, with many noting that while rheumatologists are often necessary for official diagnosis and validation (especially in earlier decades when the condition was less accepted), their ongoing treatment value varies widely. Several members described frustration with rheumatologists who lacked fibromyalgia expertise, offered only medication management, or even dismissed the condition entirely, while others praised knowledgeable specialists who made a significant difference in their quality of life. A recurring theme was that the right provider matters more than the specialty itself, whether that's a well-informed GP, an experienced rheumatologist, or potentially a neurologist given fibromyalgia's connection to the brain and nervous system.

A MyFibroTeam Member

I've been one of the lucky ones I guess, to have gone to a rheum. early, and was believed, validated and diagnosed with fibro. I've worked closely with him since 2001, and now we discuss the fact that soon neurologists will need to be updated often about fibro and its link to the brain and neurotransmitters and stuff. right now, I haven't had luck in that area.
My fibro has gotten progressively worse, and I am now looking into medicial cannibis (legal in Illinois).

December 20, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

I've had 3, one was a university educator. I thought she'd be the best help, up on the latest treatments. They never had ANY good advice. Just the same "here take this". I had ZERO luck with them, some still don't believe in fibro 🙄

December 19, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

My rheumatologist discharged me because there was nothing more they could do to help. They suggested counselling and support therapy.

December 24, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

@A MyFibroTeam Member, i agree, a neurologist makes the most sense to me based on what actually causes Fibro symptoms, I asked my Rheumatologist why Fibro patients are sent to them instead of neuro, he said it was because they still technically classify Fibro as a musculo skeletal disorder. I went to a neurologist a while back to help with my migraines, when i told him I had Fibro he laughed at me and Fibro wasn’t real. I should have walked out of his office right then and there, but instead i just told him that “hundreds of rheumatologists out there would disagree with you mate, along with almost 10% of the western population”. So doesn’t seem like many neurologists would care enough about it if he is any example!

December 22, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

My rheumatologist is not aware of many symptoms I have being related to fibro. Sometimes wonder if a neurologist would be better.

December 22, 2017

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