Fibromyalgia Shared Medical Appointments (SMA)
Fibromyalgia – You Are Not Alone
Fibromyalgia is an ongoing, chronic condition that is most common in middle-aged women. It has been known to occur in men. It produces widespread pain and tenderness in muscles and soft tissues that can move throughout the body.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia feels differently in different people. The single most common symptom among patients is chronic pain in their muscles and connecting ligaments and tendons. Fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune or inflammation-based illness, but research suggests the nervous system is involved.
Cause of Fibromyalgia
The cause of fibromyalgia is not clear, but it can be effectively treated and managed. While there are no diagnostic tests (such as X-rays or blood tests) for this condition, other tests may help to rule out health problems that can be confused with fibromyalgia.
Lifespan Lifestyle Medicine Center Fibromyalgia Shared Medical Appointments
We offer a one-and-one-half hour SMA with Mariah Stump, MD. She is joined by other experts with our medical group who will help you:
- Improve your understanding of fibromyalgia.
- Set goals specifically for you.
- Pace and listen to your body during physical activity including practicing 15 to 20 minutes of gentle yoga in each session.
- Adopt healthy behaviors to improve your overall quality of life.
- Grow your mindfulness practice every week including a focus on mindful breath work.
- Work with behavioral therapy concepts and focus on attention and. gratitude practices.
- Fight inflammation with nutrition.
- Understand the importance of sleep and improve your sleep.
Our Fibromyalgia SMA is a series of six group appointments. The group is limited to 10 participants. Our SMAs are held in person at 148 West River Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 1G, Providence, RI, 02904.
Appointments are covered by insurance. Each patient is responsible for their own co-pays and/or co-insurance. There is ample free parking at this location.
Learn about SMA Today
During an SMA for fibromyalgia you’ll receive personal attention in an intimate and confidential group environment. For upcoming dates and to join our next group call 401-793-7817.
The Benefits of Shared Medical Appointments
An SMA is a medical visit where multiple patients are seen at the same time by a physician in a supportive group setting. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with fibromyalgia because it offers:
- Prompt access to care
- More time with your physician
- Personal attention from a medical team
- More relaxed setting
- Time to ask questions
- An opportunity for patients to help and support one another by sharing experiences