Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by a combination of widespread pain in the muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is accompanied by fatigue and multiple tender points on the body. These tender points cause discomfort to the patient when pressure is applied to the area. They typically show up in the neck, shoulders, upper back, upper chest, elbows, low back, hips, and thighs.
Patients with fibromyalgia may also experience other symptoms and conditions, such as restless sleep, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, TMJ disorders, anxiety, depression, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, poor concentration, menstrual issues, and sensitivity to odors, noises, bright lights and touch.
According to the American College of Rheumatology, fibromyalgia affects up to 12 million people in the United States and it is most common in women aged 30 to about 50. Fibromyalgia is frequently reported in patients following an injury or illness, psychological or physical trauma.
Help for Managing Fibromyalgia
Naturopathy offers a number of treatment options for fibromyalgia, including vitamin supplementation (including intravenous supplementation), herbal medicine, identifying and treating underlying conditions – including SIBO and hormonal imbalance, medication and integrative therapies.
Getting to the Root Cause
A naturopathic physician will work with the patient to uncover the root cause of the fibromyalgia in the hopes of treating the primary issue and to better manage symptoms. In order to determine the root cause, many NDs will begin by recommending the Four-R plan, which includes the following techniques.
- Removal of toxins by identifying potentially harmful foods, medications and microorganisms
- Replace and repair digestive functionality digestive with enzymes and hydrochloric acid
- Re-inoculation of the gut with good bacteria and probiotics
- Repairing the gut lining with glutamine, deglycyrrhized licorice (DGL), zinc and quercetin
Naturopathic medicine is uniquely able to root out underlying conditions that may be causing fibromyalgia-type symptoms including chronic infections like Lyme Disease, sleep disturbances, hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, and nutrient deficiencies.
Mental Emotional Factors
Fibromyalgia may be triggered by mental and emotional issues such as trauma, chronic stress, and psychological distress. Fibromyalgia patients respond well to treatment when they can identify and address these psychological factors. Doing so works to empower the patient to adopt a new healthcare plan that includes modalities such as counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, meditation, and journaling practice.
Treatments which have been reported to benefit fibromyalgia patients that are available to naturopathic patients include:
- Breathing Exercises, meditation, prayer, relaxation exercises, visualization
- Gentle Exercise – Water-based exercise, yoga, Tai Chi, dance, walking
- Bodywork – Massage, acupressure
- Acupuncture and Energetic Therapies Including craniosacral therapy and healing touch
- Detoxification Program – Including liver cleansing, candida and parasite cleanses, juice fasting and colonics
- Intravenous Nutrition – Offered by a healthcare professional, psycho-spiritual counseling and psychotherapy from a qualified psychologist or therapist
Herbal medicine can be very beneficial in the recovery process of fibromyalgia. A variety of recommended or prescribed herbal supplements may be considered for their ability to support overall healthy function of the adrenals and thyroid, provide pain relief, support mood, and for promotion of restful sleep. Herbal medicine is best prescribed on an individual basis by your naturopathic provider, who will take into consideration any other medicines that a patient may be taking. Vitamin and other supplements can include;
- Anti-oxidant Vitamins – Beta-carotene, C, E, B-complex
- Minerals – Especially magnesium maltase and potassium citrate
- Enzymes – Digestive plant enzymes and anti-inflammatory proteolysis enzymes
- Essential Fatty Acids – Evening primrose oil, flax seed oil, borage oil, fish oils
In the end, fibromyalgia is a complicated and somewhat mysterious disease to healthcare providers, with multiple causes and multiple treatment options. A treatment plan that works for one patient may not work for another due to natural biochemical individuality. Working with a knowledgeable naturopathic doctor is one of the best ways to navigate the many treatment options offered for this illness.