How Holistic Medicine Helps Fibromyalgia Syndrome

The American College of Rheumatology defines Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) as a condition characterized by widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that has persisted for at least three months, with specific pain in at least 11 of 18 "tender points."

It is often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disorders, morning stiffness, and numbness or tingling. FMS differs from other chronic pain conditions in that there is no joint involvement, no muscle weakness, and no blood-test abnormalities. Most patients are women between the ages of 20 and 50. Some have been in pain for years, since pharmaceuticals offer little more than short-term relief and can prove toxic in the long run.

In fact, time has shown that non-drug approaches help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms far better than pharmacological treatment. Acupuncture is especially useful for pain relief and stress control, and herbs often play a part in dealing with underlying physical deficiencies. A dietary regimen can also be helpful.

In terms of traditional Chinese medicine, the pain symptoms of fibromyalgia are seen as "Qi stagnation," i.e., a problem with the circulation of energy in the body. Qi (pronounced "chee") stagnation can have numerous causes, so, as with any other chronic condition, fibromyalgia should be treated holistically, that is, by looking at what is going on overall with a person's health: Is there accompanying fatigue, headache, diarrhea, or constipation? Is the pain better for heat or cold? Are there problems falling asleep or staying asleep?

Based on the answers to these and similar questions, an acupuncturist can analyze where the underlying imbalances are and what can be done to correct them, so that some of the causes of the fibromyalgia, as well as the symptoms, are addressed.

If you have fibromyalgia or a health problem that is causing you concern and you would like to know if holistic medicine might help your condition, you are welcome to call me for a free phone consultation at 858/673-1397.

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Rancho Bernardo Sun/ Diamond Gateway Signature
April 2000