What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by musculoskeletal pain , typically described as " numbness, pricking, burning, and stabbing ." The condition may also be accompanied by sleep disturbances , fatigue , and emotional distress .
Currently, fibromyalgia has no specific treatment, and scientists are unsure of its causes. Standard treatments for fibromyalgia symptoms include painkillers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants. They can help reduce symptoms such as pain , fatigue , and insomnia .
For some people, however, these medications are not the ideal solution. They can cause side effects, making it essential to explore non-drug treatments for fibromyalgia sufferers., making it essential to explore non-drug treatments for fibromyalgia sufferers. that make them difficult to take, and they may not provide adequate pain relief. Therefore, it is crucial to consider non-drug treatments. That is why lifestyle changes and more natural remedies are often recommended. Below are some of the most popular natural remedies for fibromyalgia .
Presentation of natural treatments to relieve you against fibromyalgia
Natural Remedy #1: Yoga
Several studies suggest that yoga may help ease fibromyalgia symptoms . A 2012 study found that yoga, combined with breathing exercises and meditation, improved fibromyalgia symptoms and coping skills. This held true even three months after the initial study—as long as the person continued practicing. A more recent 2020 case report echoed these claims, finding that 9 months of yoga helped one person living with fibromyalgia experience reduced muscle fatigue and improved overall quality of life. A 2019 study also found that yoga appeared to ease pain symptoms and improve sleep, albeit modestly. The researchers caution that the longer you stick to an actual yoga practice, the more it works on pain and sleep. They also caution that more studies are needed to better understand who may benefit most from this natural remedy.
Natural Remedy #2: Meditation
Can meditation change the way your brain processes pain signals? The question is still up in the air, but it’s clear that meditation can provide some relief from fibromyalgia pain. A 2015 clinical review found evidence that meditation can ease the severity of fibromyalgia symptoms , as well as perceived stress. A more recent 2017 review also concluded that mindfulness meditation can improve pain intensity, stress, and decrease symptom severity in people living with fibromyalgia. The study goes on to say that more research is needed to know if meditation actually helps create physiological changes or if it simply allows a person to better manage their symptoms.
Natural remedy #3: Massage therapy
Massage therapy can be very beneficial for a variety of conditions, including fibromyalgia. According to a 2014 review, people who were able to participate in massages for more than 5 weeks saw improvements in their symptoms of pain, anxiety, and depression . As with many other natural remedies, however, researchers say that more studies on larger numbers of people need to be done. Talk to your physical therapist or osteopath!
Natural Remedy #4: Exercise
While it can be difficult to motivate yourself to exercise when you’re dealing with a fibromyalgia pain flare-up, studies show that aerobic exercise and weight lifting are beneficial. In fact, a 2017 review found that aerobic and strength-training exercises are the most effective ways to reduce pain and improve well-being for people with fibromyalgia . If you’ve never lifted weights before, be sure to speak with a certified personal trainer to learn some helpful moves to get started.
Natural Remedy #5: Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient form of traditional Chinese medicine in which thin needles are inserted into the skin at different points on the body. It is used to treat a variety of conditions. Some people believe that these needles alter blood flow and chemical levels, which can help relieve the pain and discomfort of fibromyalgia. A review of published articles on the topic found low to moderate evidence that acupuncture may offer some benefits to people with fibromyalgia , such as improving pain and stiffness, but more research is needed to confirm the practice’s usefulness. According to another 2019 review, acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for fibromyalgia , and may even be more effective than medications in the short and long term when it comes to pain management. More large-scale studies are needed before researchers can say for sure how effective this remedy is across the board.
Natural Remedy #6: Tai Chi
Tai chi is another ancient Chinese practice. It involves moving your body slowly and gently through a series of poses and has shown some potential for easing fibromyalgia symptoms . According to a 2018 study that followed 226 people with fibromyalgia for 52 weeks, practicing tai chi once or twice a week produced similar or greater improvement in fibromyalgia symptoms than aerobic exercise, making it an effective natural remedy.
Natural Remedy #7: Stress Management
Fibromyalgia is a stress-related pain condition , which means symptoms can be exacerbated when stress hormones like cortisol increase. According to a 2019 study , stress management classes for women with fibromyalgia appeared to reduce the pain they felt. According to the same study, counseling with cognitive behavioral approaches also reduced markers of inflammation and pain. People with fibromyalgia often have a history of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and should be screened and treated for it, as people with PTSD may experience stress more intensely .
Natural Remedy #8: Food Supplements
Several studies have shown deficiencies in certain vitamins or trace elements in patients with fibromyalgia . We find in particular deficiencies in magnesium , vitamin B, D but also in selenium, zinc and iron. Serotonin precursors such as 5-HTP or the essential amino acid L-tryptophan have also shown beneficial effects in soothing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Our laboratory has specially developed a food supplement for fibromyalgia patients. The latter brings together all of these ingredients according to the quantities recommended during clinical studies.
Natural Remedy #9: Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential to managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Being well-rested helps combat the fatigue that accompanies the condition . Practices that can help people get good quality sleep include:- minimize daytime naps
- go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
- limit light and noise at bedtime
- avoid screen time just before bed
- Leave 2 to 3 hours between eating a large meal and going to bed
- avoid alcohol and coffee before bed
A 2017 review found a clear link between fibromyalgia pain and poor sleep quality . Researchers called for the development of sleep strategies to help people with fibromyalgia.
Natural Remedy #10: Exercise and Sport
Some people with fibromyalgia may find exercise difficult at first, but starting gradually and being persistent may be beneficial. As muscle strength develops, pain and discomfort should decrease . People with fibromyalgia should consult a doctor before starting an exercise program. A physical therapist can help design a suitable program. A Cochrane systematic review concluded that regular aerobic exercise , such as swimming , walking , or cycling , may improve the health-related quality of life of people with fibromyalgia. It may also lead to better physical function and reduced pain, fatigue, and stiffness . A neurological study found that a 15-week exercise program partially reversed an unusual pattern of brain activity that affects people with fibromyalgia when the brain is at rest. Participants also reported a decrease in symptom severity, although there did not appear to be a link between the two factors.
Natural Remedy #11: Rest
People with fibromyalgia tire more easily than people without the condition, and it is important to rest when needed. Trying to do too much exercise or too many activities can increase pain and fatigue , so moderation is key. By overdoing it when they feel good, patients risk having more days when they don't feel well.
Natural Remedy #12: Diet
Eating a balanced, healthy diet, exercising, and reducing the consumption of caffeine, alcohol, nicotine products, and illicit drugs can help reduce stress and improve mood. Many patients report that working with a dietitian or nutritionist has helped improve symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, or muscle pain. A person’s diet is an important part of any treatment plan. Certain dietary changes can help a person with fibromyalgia live with and manage their condition. These include:- Eat energy-dense, low-sugar foods: Foods such as almonds, beans, oatmeal, avocado, and tofu can help boost energy throughout the day, helping to combat fatigue that occurs due to the condition.
- Eliminate gluten-containing foods : Studies suggest that removing gluten-containing foods from the diet may help reduce fibromyalgia pain, even in people who do not have celiac disease.
- Avoid fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs): A 2017 study shows that a low-FODMAP diet may have promising effects on pain levels in people with fibromyalgia.
- Avoid additives and excitotoxins: Although research is limited, one study found that avoiding the additives aspartame and monosodium glutamate reduced fibromyalgia symptoms.
Achieving or maintaining a moderate body weight and following a balanced diet are essential for overall health and can improve a person's quality of life. Studies have shown that people with both fibromyalgia and obesity experienced improvements in their quality of life and pain symptoms when they lost weight.
Natural Remedy #13: Ayurvedic Massage
Ayurvedic massage is a well-known treatment for sore muscles and joints in fibromyalgia patients . It originated from Ayurveda , the traditional Indian medicine. It involves gentle manipulation of the body to increase range of motion, reduce stress , promote relaxation , and relieve pain . A 2014 systematic review found that 5 weeks or more of massage therapy led to significant improvements in pain, anxiety, and depression in people with fibromyalgia (all types of massage combined).
Natural Remedy #14: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) uses magnets to activate specific parts of the brain. It is approved by the authorities for the treatment of some forms of depression. Early research on this therapy showed promising results, but some people reported headaches after treatment. Another 2016 review concluded that one month of rTMS treatment improved quality of life.
Natural Remedy #15: Biofeedback Therapy
In biofeedback therapy , people use special equipment to monitor how their brain activity changes in response to specific events and situations . This can help them become aware of what triggers their discomfort and give them insight into changes they can make to help control it. One study claims that this technique has helped some people with fibromyalgia, but notes that there is currently insufficient evidence to support its effectiveness.
Natural Remedy #16: Reiki
In Reiki, a practitioner places their hands lightly on a person to allow healing through the transmission of energy. Proponents and anecdotal evidence suggest that Reiki can help people with fibromyalgia. However, scientific studies have not been able to confirm this.
Everything you need to know about fibromyalgia:
Fibromyalgia is a common chronic syndrome that can cause widespread body pain , fatigue , and cognitive impairment . A person may mistake the symptoms of fibromyalgia for those of arthritis , or inflammation of the joints. It particularly affects women. Fibromyalgia can coexist with autoimmune disorders , such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus , but it is not an autoimmune disorder. Fibromyalgia does not cause inflammation or damage to the joints or muscles , but it can increase a person's feeling of joint or muscle pain.
Symptoms include:
- generalized pain
- fatigue
- Unrestful sleep is another common symptom among those seeking solutions outside of drug treatment.
- somatic and cognitive or psychiatric symptoms
Although there is no test for fibromyalgia, doctors may order lab tests and x-rays to rule out conditions that resemble fibromyalgia. There is a questionnaire to measure the quality of life of a fibromyalgia patient called the QIF. There is no single known cause of fibromyalgia. Genetics , traumatic emotional or physical events, sleep and mood disorders can all contribute to the condition. Currently, there is no cure for fibromyalgia . However, medications, exercise, acupuncture, and behavioral therapy can help relieve symptoms and improve sleep quality. The FM Complex for Fibromyalgia was specifically developed with the patient's needs in mind.
Who are the patients who suffer from fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a common cause of chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain. About 1.6% of the French population suffers from fibromyalgia. Studies show that women born to mothers with fibromyalgia are more likely to be affected than men. It is estimated that 8 women are affected by fibromyalgia for every 1 man. A person may be more at risk for fibromyalgia following a traumatic injury . Rheumatoid arthritis , other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, and genetic factors can also increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
- generalized pain
- Joint and muscle stiffness after sleep
- headache
- sleep irregularities
- tingling and numbness in hands and feet
- restless legs syndrome
- sensitivity to cold or heat
- memory and concentration difficulties, known as “fibro fog.”
- fatigue
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- The following symptoms may also occur
- vision problems
- nausea which can be one of the other symptoms of fibromyalgia.
- pelvic and urinary problems
- rapid weight gain
- dizziness
- cold or flu symptoms
- skin problems
- chest symptoms
- depression and anxiety
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- respiratory problems
Symptoms can appear at any time in life, but are most common between the ages of 30 and 50. To learn more about the symptoms of fibromyalgia click here
Fibromyalgia Treatment
Fibromyalgia can be difficult for a person to manage alone. A rheumatologist or other specialist will develop a treatment plan to help manage the condition. This is usually a combination of drug and non-drug therapies. Because fibromyalgia is a syndrome , each person will have a different set of symptoms, and an individualized treatment plan will be necessary. Treatment may include some or all of the following:- a low impact exercise program
- acupuncture
- psychotherapy
- osteopathy
- massage
- food supplement
- stress reduction technique
- psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- medications, such as antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and nerve pain medications.
The natural treatments in this article can help you in your daily life to relieve your headaches and chronic pain, improve your digestion, strengthen your immunity and soothe your stress. Remember to consult a health professional before trying these natural remedies, especially if you have underlying health problems. This way, you can fully benefit from the benefits of natural treatments for your overall well-being.
Over the counter medications for fibromyalgia
A healthcare professional may recommend medications to treat certain symptoms . These may include over-the-counter pain relievers . However, in its updated 2016 guidelines, the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommended against the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat fibromyalgia . Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants, including duloxetine (Cymbalta) and milnacipran (Savella), and anti-seizure medications, such as pregabalin (Lyrica). A person should tell their doctor about any other medications they are taking to avoid side effects and interactions with other medications. To learn more about treatments for fibromyalgia, click here .
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy sessions can help people with fibromyalgia cope with pain symptoms. Behavior modification therapy is a form of CBT that aims to reduce behaviors that increase stress or pain and improve positive behaviors . It includes learning new coping skills and relaxation exercises. CBT exercises can help reduce pain symptoms and make it easier to manage fibromyalgia long-term . A 2017 trial found that emotional awareness and expression therapies can also have a positive impact on pain symptoms in people with fibromyalgia. Some people may also find that meditation can help ease stress and feelings of pain.
Causes of Fibromyalgia
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unclear. However, current thinking in the field of rheumatology suggests that fibromyalgia results from a problem with pain processing in the central nervous system (CNS). Several factors can increase the risk of developing fibromyalgia, including:- a stressful and traumatic physical or emotional event, such as a car accident
- repetitive injuries
- RA or other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus
- CNS problems
- how genes regulate how a person processes painful stimuli.
To learn more about the causes and risk factors of fibromyalgia click here Fibromyalgia can also run in families . Women who have a close relative with fibromyalgia are at a higher risk of developing the condition. People with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or a spinal arthritis called ankylosing spondylitis are at a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia , as are people with certain other rheumatic conditions.
Diagnosis of fibromyalgia
It can sometimes take some time to confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia because the symptoms are similar to those of other conditions, such as:- hypothyroidism
- autoimmune disorders
- Lyme disease
- pain and symptoms in the previous week, as well as levels of fatigue, unrefreshing sleep or cognitive problems
- symptoms present for at least 3 months
- the absence of another health problem that could explain the symptoms.
