MelissaMCongdonMD

Summary

• After 14 years of practicing general pediatrics I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and had to retire due to profound fatigue, chronic pain and frequent infections. Fascinated by this poorly understood syndrome, I researched the myriad of treatment options and found the modalities that work best for me. My health improved so much I returned to medical practice in December 2009.
  
  I chose to go into private fibromyalgia consulting to aid in early diagnosis of patients and to present patients with a wide variety of treatment options (pharmaceuticals along with other useful adjuncts). My personal stuggles with fibromyalgia not only give me additional insight with my patient's struggles, but first hand experience with many treatment modalities.
  
  PCPs can easily determine if their patient has fibromyalgia using the 2010 American College of Rheumatology New Clinical Fibromyalgia Diagnostic Criteria Questionnaire, and I can confirm (or deny) the diagnosis in a single office visit. I have been trained on how to recognize and treat carbohydrate intolerance, a co-morbid condition of up to 30% of fibromyalgia patients, and a syndrome not often recognized by other fibromyalgia specialists.
  
  I use my expertise to craft a personalized treatment plan for my patients, helping them to understand their choices. Patients with fibromyalgia can be quite challenging, but that makes the reward so much greater when they improve!
  
  There is a genetic component to fibromyalgia, and I enjoy treating families (sometimes 3 generations). I have patients who range in age from age 4 to age 80.
  
  I operate on a fee for service basis, filling out a detailed superbill for patient reimbursement, and I keep my charges low. I am available for patient questions by phone or email, and work closely with the PCP and other specialists for the best patient outcome.
  
  I love my new focus, and look forward to helping your fibromyalgia patients return to good health!