Fibromyalgia

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Fibromyalgia are conditions of growing prevalence that arise as a direct result of loss of mitochondria (the energy production part of the body’s cells). Antibiotics and free radicals are the main culprit. When tiredness is the main complaint the diagnosis is chronic fatigue syndrome. When muscle and trigger point pain is present the condition is called Fibromyalgia. However many of the same symptoms are present in both illnesses.

Fibromyalgia

Fibro = relationship to fibers or fibrous tissues,

myalgia = tenderness or pain in the muscle.

It is thought to affect up to 4 or 5% of the population. Fibromyalgia (FM) mainly affects women ages 25 to 55 (the female to male ratio 5:1). The onset can be gradual or very sudden, such as after an illness or traumatic or stressful episode. The pain of FM occurs within the muscle or where the muscles join their tendons, but not in the joints.

Approximately 70% of patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia meet the criteria for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Diagnosis is based on all three of the major criteria and four or more minor criteria:

Major:

Generalized aches or stiffness of at least anatomical sites for at least 3 months
Six or more typical, reproducible tender points (see diagram)
Exclusion of other disorders that can cause similar symptoms

Minor:

Generalized fatigue
Chronic headache
Sleep disturbance
Neurological and psychological complaints
Joint swelling
Numbing or tingling sensations
Irritable bowel syndrome
Variation of symptoms in relation to activity, stress and weather changes

Other common symptoms among FM sufferers: difficulty with concentration and memory, TMJ mitral valve prolapse, tension headaches and environmental sensitivity.

One of the key factors in treating fibromyalgia involves improving sleep quality. It has been noted that people with fibromyalgia do not stay in the deeper, more restorative stages of sleep long enough. Poor sleep leads to alterations in immune function. Many key detoxification processes also occur during sleep.

Nutritional deficiencies are common in people with fibromyalgia. Magnesium seems to be one of the most critical. It is vital for energy production, muscle relaxation and heart function. In addition to magnesium malic acid has been found in several studies to enhance energy production and relieve pain. Malic acid and magnesium help to detoxify aluminum, which has been found to accumulate more readily in people with FM. Malic acid is a compound found in various foods (apples are one of the best sources).

Magnesium deficiency signs and symptoms include: muscle spasms, migraines, chronic neck, back and shoulder pain with recurring muscle spasms, depression, exhaustion, muscle or eye twitches, cold hands and feet, insomnia, hypertension, irregular heartbeats and excessive perspiration and body odor.

B vitamins are also critical for energy production and need to be maintained at optimal levels. COQ10 is very beneficial for enhancing energy and immune function - for many people their body is not producing enough. L-Carnitine and alpha lipoic acid enhance muscle energy production. The key antioxidants C, E and carotenes are a crucial part of the whole foundation.

Since poor quality sleep is a major factor, medications and supplements that improve sleep like L-tryptophan, 5-HTP and St. John’s Wort can be very helpful at enhancing serotonin, which is a key neurotransmitter for sleep and mood level. SAMe is also a beneficial supplement for enhancing mood, pain fighting and enhancing liver function.

It is important that many other conditions be ruled out. Low thyroid function, hypoadrenalism, EBV, food allergies, hypoglycemia or diabetes, anemia, heavy metal toxicity, candida, chemical sensitivity, Lyme disease and rheumatoid arthritis are common conditions that might cause a person to have symptoms like fibromyalgia.

Following a healthy diet is critical to the success of treating fibromyalgia. A low glycemic, high fiber diet based on large quantities of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and nuts/seeds is beneficial for most everyone. Avoidance of highly refined foods and sugar is very important. Avoidance of all stimulants like coffee, cola, chocolate, etc which can all interfere with sleep is recommended.

Lifestyle changes like stress reduction, improved rest and light exercise are beneficial for people with fibromyalgia. Massage, stretching, yoga, Tai Chi would also be beneficial for improving flexibility and relieving stress. Aerobic exercise should be gradually increased up to 30 minutes, 2 to 3 times a week. Relaxation is also critical. Deep breathing and meditation are very beneficial at clearing the mind and relieving stress. Soaking in a hot bath with ½ lb. of Epsom salt can help with pain.

The Healing Partnership web site is designed for educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or prescribe but rather to provide material to help the reader better cooperate with his or her doctor in the natural goal of building health.

The Healing Partnership does not endorse any form of medical treatment. In times of serious illness, it is suggested that one obtain the professional advise of one's doctor.