Fibromyalgia alternative therapies and pain relief

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that is often associated with moderate to severe muscle pain. Fibromyalgia is best described as a group of symptoms many of which are also associated with individuals afflicted with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia syndrome does not directly affect joints as arthritis does. Sometimes muscle pain is accompanied with swelling and it can feel very much like arthritis. The pain can vary in individuals from mild to severe and sometimes disabling. Fibromyalgia usually results in poor quality sleep. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown but it is suspected that it is related to injury, mental or physical stress, not enough sleep, infections and perhaps cold climates. Any three or more of the following symptoms normally signify the presence of chronic fibromyalgia:

• Sleep disturbance, inadequate amount of sleep or problems staying awake.

• Chronic fatigue usually accompanied with flu-like symptoms.

• Muscle stiffness. The soft tissues of the neck, shoulders, ribs and chest seem to be most susceptible to pain and stiffness and usually gets worse with fatigue and stress.

• Headaches. The headaches are caused by tenderness in the neck and shoulder areas including the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

• Abdominal discomfort. Digestive disturbances, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea which together are referred to as irritable bowel syndrome. A lack of pancreatic enzymes may cause many of these symptoms.

• Bladder irritation resulting in frequent urination (if no bladder infection is present).

• Tingling and numbness in the extremities.

• Chest pains - primarily where ribs join with the chest bone.

• Cognitive disorders may vary from day to day. Memory lapses, inability to concentrate and feelings of "spaciness".

• Sensitivity to environmental stimuli such as light, noise, odors and allergic reactions.

Chronic inflammation is also associated with those suffering with fibromyalgia which is why patients will respond to treatment with antiflammatory, non steroidal medications or NSAIDS. Not surprisingly individuals with fibromyalgia also experience depression and anxiety due to their chronic condition.

Alternative therapies for fibromyalgia

Melatonin is one of the most effective antioxidants available since it can easily penetrate cell membranes throughout the body, including the brain. As an antioxidant it provides protection against free radicals at the cellular level. It also appears to be superior than most other substances in protecting the nervous system against diseases and aging . Melatonin also induces drowsiness and helps to improve sleep patterns which makes it an effective therapy for insomnia which inflicts many individuals with fibromyalgia. It also has been shown in studies to have some pain relief effect.

SAMe (s-adenosylmethionine) is another effective supplement against chronic pain and depression both h are symptoms which afflict those with fibromyalgia. 

B vitamins, especially B12 has been found to be effective for those with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Vitamin B6, folic acid and TMG (trimethylglycine) all help to increase energy levels.

Digestive enzymes have shown to assist with breakdown of food and to enhance absorption of food and help to reduce irritable bowel and leaky gut syndrome both of which often afflict those with fibromyalgia.

In addition to supplements there are also lifestyle approaches that can help patients feel better and improve their quality of life such as:

1. Physical therapy which includes massage, chiropractic treatment, electrical stimulation, application of heat or cold can be effective.
2. Gentle exercising to increase circulation and range of motion.
3. Acupuncture, pilates, yoga and biofeedback may be helpful in pain relief.
4. Swimming is a low impact exercise that can be extremely helpful for individuals maintaining and enhancing their mobility.
5. Hot baths with half pound of Epsom salts added to the water.