FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia affects a small percent of the population, but its effects on the individual that gets it is life changing. It is a poorly understood pain disorder that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disorders. Diagnosis is not easy and there is no test to detect. It is a clinical disorder that can mimic other pain syndromes.

Women are more likely affected and most who suffer from it also have mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Digestive problems, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS), are often found in those with fibromyalgia.

The American College of Rheumatology recommends numerous medications for “treatment” however there is no accepted cure for fibromyalgia. Medications are not the answer and often leave patients functional but often with numerous side effects.

While there is no right way to treat fibromyalgia, a more holistic method is the best and should start with lifestyle changes.

There are many foods that should be avoided in the treatment of someone with fibromyalgia and include the following:

1. Aspartame – such as is found in many diet drinks and “low fat” foods
2. Caffeine – including soda, coffee, tea, and chocolate. The short term increase in energy can actually worsen fatigue. Drink only WATER!
3. Sugar, fructose, and simple carbohydrates
4. Food additives like MSG and nitrates
5. Yeast and gluten(found in most cakes, donuts, and bread)
6. Dairy – some say that dairy is linked to worsening symptoms and is inflammatory
7. Nightshade plants – tomatoes, chili, bell peppers, potatoes and eggplants. Try to eliminate one of these at a time to see if it makes a difference in your pain. Vegetables in general are good for health, but these might be linked to increased pain.
8. CIGARETTES and ALCOHOL – yes these are toxins and putting them into your body will depress your immune system and worsen your pain.

Avoiding these foods will help to heal up your gut along with good quality probiotics. Did you know that the neurotransmitter, Serotonin (which is the main method that anti-depressant medications such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro work) is found in the gut. When the gut doesn’t work well, Serotonin isn’t well absorbed which can lead to mood disorders and problems with pain. When an elimination diet and probiotics don’t get the gut working better, food sensitivity testing can figure out what your body is sensitive to and help you to eliminate them.

Other holistic treatments include

1. Physical therapy and exercise
2. Manipulation – both Osteopathic and Chiropractic.
3. Accupuncture
4. Massage
5. Stress relieving strategies such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi

Also, nerve blocks can help to release those constricted nerves and get them working better. Proper vitamin supplementation also with a good whole foods diet consisting of plenty of fruits and vegetables can get your immune system functioning better.

We hope this was a fresh look at treatment of a very difficult pain disorder. If you’re looking for a non-medication, holistic treatment of fibromyalgia, click here to make an appointment.