Last Updated on 31 August 2024 by Brisbane Livewell Clinic
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex chronic pain syndrome (1) characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive and somatic symptoms. (2) The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown and occurs more often among middle-aged women. (3) Since becoming the 2nd most common diagnosis in rheumatology clinics, (3) and with no known cure, many people with fibromyalgia look to complementary and alternative medicine treatments for symptom relief. (4)
Patients with fibromyalgia experience lower pain thresholds and higher than normal pain ratings. (1) Pain management becomes a priority for many Fibromyalgia sufferers and the type of pain experienced can vary. While most patients with Fibromyalgia have muscle pain and tenderness, in addition, they can experience a range of symptoms, affecting various aspects of their wellbeing. Functional pain disorders that are more common in patients with fibromyalgia include: (5)(6)
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- irritable bladder syndrome
- vulvodynia
- pelvic pain
- interstitial cystitis
- endometriosis
- temporomandibular joint pain
- headache
- chronic back pain
- non-cardiac chest pain
Other common symptoms experienced are: (5)(6)
- anxiety and depression
- restless legs syndrome
- cognitive dysfunction such as forgetfulness and problems concentrating
- multiple chemical sensitivities
Figuring out the cause
While there is no testing required to make a formal diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, it’s important to rule out other causes of the symptoms experienced, especially when it comes to fatigue. A Naturopath will consider many factors and make sure you are tested for other reasons for fatigue, such as iron deficiency anaemia and hypothyroidism. Despite no known singular cause, FM is often reported to coincide with an infection, while Fibromyalgia symptoms may also worsen during infections. (7) Getting a viral panel through your GP can help to better understand the situation. Nutrient deficiencies are also key drivers of symptoms. Magnesium deficiency appears to be directly related to muscular symptoms, with red blood cell magnesium levels being found to be low in FM. (8)
Finding what works for you
Aside from some herbal and nutritional supplements, acupuncture and massage therapy have the best evidence for effectiveness in managing Fibromyalgia symptoms. (9) While a prescription is helpful, diet and lifestyle changes are also required. Factors that may aggravate pain often involve obesity, smoking and stress. (10) Additionally, sedentary behaviours in Fibromyalgia patients are associated with further impaired pain regulation. (11) Therefore weight reduction, quitting smoking, stress management and being physically active are also top priorities in the management of Fibromyalgia.
Fighting Fit
Complementary and alternative medicine includes a number of gentle exercise modalities, such as tai chi, qigong, yoga and hydrotherapy, (5) and most studies report a medium-to-high effect in pain reduction. (12) Aerobic exercise of moderate intensity, for 20-30 minutes, 2-3 days per week, has the most consistent evidence for pain and mood symptoms improvement. (5) Stretching, flexibility and strengthening exercises seem to improve symptoms as well. An Australian study found that patients that engaged in regular exercise had better self-reported outcome measures. (13)
Figuring it out with a Practitioner
Natural & Functional Medicine has much to offer those suffering from Fibromyalgia. Attending a multi-modality clinic means benefitting from cross-referrals in-house, combining strategies to help to address ongoing issues. With a treatment focus on both symptom management and improving quality of life, getting the support to minimise the impact of this condition is truly worthwhile.
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