Natural Treatments for Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a complex and often misunderstood condition characterized by widespread chronic pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that can significantly impact the quality of life. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), fibromyalgia is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It often develops after a physical trauma, surgery, infection, or significant psychological stress, but in some cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event. Symptoms can include muscle pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory issues (often referred to as “fibro fog”), and mood swings.
We know that those who have lower cortisol levels don’t have the same capacity to manage stressful events biologically. Low cortisol has been correlated with increased inflammation in the brain, and might be involved in fibromyalgia.
There are a number of other pathways of concern with fibromyalgia that might help explain its origin. These pathways are also potential areas of action to help possibly prevent fibromyalgia, lessen its severity, or allow us to treat its symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life. Functional and integrative practitioners like those at Progressive Medical Center look to get at the root of a health problem, rather than just treating one system in isolation. Here are some of the therapies at Progressive that are part of our systematic and holistic approach to help treat fibromyalgia patients:
Gastrointestinal Health: Many individuals with fibromyalgia report gastrointestinal symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Research indicates a strong connection between gut health and fibromyalgia symptoms. By focusing on improving gastrointestinal health through diet, probiotics, and other interventions, patients may experience a reduction in symptoms. “Emerging data suggest an association between gut microbiota and fibromyalgia” (NIH). Our experts will first assess gut function through comprehensive functional testing that will assess food allergies and sensitivities, whether the intestinal wall is permeable, the degree of inflammation in the gut, and the state of your microbiome through an analysis of your stool. Any of these factors can cause or contribute to IBS, and can create inflammation that can spread to other areas of the body and cause chronic inflammation and pain.
Detoxification: The body’s detoxification systems can become overburdened in individuals with fibromyalgia, potentially exacerbating symptoms. Detoxification protocols, such as those involving dietary changes, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications, aim to reduce the body’s toxic load. A focus on detoxification may lead to improved overall health and symptom management. Progressive Medical Center is a leader in detoxification strategies, including the use of IV therapy. It’s important that detoxification be managed under a doctor’s care, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. Detoxification occurs in two stages. The first pulls toxins out of the tissue and into the liver, and the second flushes the liver. Too many detox protocols only focus on stage 1 detox, which can cause an accumulation of too many toxins for the liver to flush. This causes a toxic rebound and can make you feel worse than when you started. The professionals at Progressive will make sure your detox is safe and done right.
Nutrition: Proper nutrition is crucial for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and provide the necessary nutrients for healing. Nutritional interventions may hold the potential for alleviating fibromyalgia symptoms. Progressive Medical has experienced nutritionists who can help design a diet that can begin to restore your body.
Hormones: Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving thyroid and adrenal hormones, can contribute to fibromyalgia symptoms. Addressing these imbalances through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy or other treatments may help alleviate fatigue, pain, and mood disturbances. Hormonal dysregulation is a common feature in fibromyalgia. Our team can test your thyroid and adrenal systems and has long experience in bioidentical hormone therapy.
Sleep Support: Improving sleep quality is essential for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Poor sleep can exacerbate pain and fatigue, while restorative sleep can help reduce these symptoms. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), sleep hygiene practices, and natural supplements like melatonin can be beneficial. Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in individuals with fibromyalgia. Our supplement dispensary can provide you with what you need, and our doctors can counsel you on sleep practices and products, as well as utilize therapies like biofeedback and adrenal support to help stop your mind from racing when you are trying to go to sleep.
Exercise: Regular, gentle exercise can help reduce pain, improve mood, and increase overall energy levels. Activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga are often recommended for individuals with fibromyalgia. Exercise can be an effective intervention for improving physical function and reducing symptoms in fibromyalgia. We can advise you on a suitable exercise program, as well as being able to offer therapies like EWOT (exercise with oxygen therapy), or cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and infrared saunas for healing and muscle recovery.
Massage: Therapeutic massage can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Many individuals with fibromyalgia find that regular massage therapy sessions help alleviate pain and improve overall well-being. Massage therapy can be a useful complementary treatment for fibromyalgia. The professional massage chairs that are available for use at Progressive Medical Center can help alleviate pain and improve circulation.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those involving the spine. For some individuals with fibromyalgia, chiropractic adjustments can help reduce pain and improve function. Progressive Medical is a long time provider of adjunct chiropractic care.
The causes of fibromyalgia are not understood by most doctors and there is “no cure” for fibromyalgia. With such limited options for help, integrative and functional medicine becomes a natural choice when trying to find solutions for fibromyalgia. At Progressive Medical, we look for the underlying causes of fibromyalgia. Our targets are the gastrointestinal system, detoxification system, nutrition, hormones, sleep and exercise, and natural pain relief techniques. We see this approach help many people who otherwise had no hope. Progressive Medical Center in Atlanta offers a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating fibromyalgia. By addressing the root causes of fibromyalgia and tailoring treatments to each individual’s unique needs, Progressive Medical Center looks to improve the quality of life for those living with this challenging condition.