Understanding Fibromyalgia and How Acupuncture Can Provide Relief
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It is a complex disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. At Herb + Ōhm Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine clinic in Chicago, we have experience providing relief to many patients in the Chicago area suffering from fibromyalgia.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, often accompanied by other symptoms such as:
Chronic Pain: Persistent pain that can affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Fatigue: Severe tiredness and lack of energy that can interfere with daily activities.
Cognitive Difficulties: Often referred to as “fibro fog,” this includes problems with concentration, memory, and mental clarity.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep.
Other Symptoms: These may include headaches, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anxiety, and depression.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It is thought that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.
Segments of the Population Most Impacted Fibromyalgia can affect anyone, but certain groups are more likely to develop the condition:
Women: Women are significantly more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men. The reasons for this disparity are not fully understood but may involve hormonal differences and genetic predispositions.
Middle-Aged Individuals: Although fibromyalgia can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in middle age, with symptoms often appearing between the ages of 30 and 50.
Individuals with Rheumatic Diseases: People with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune diseases have a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia.
Family History: There is a genetic component to fibromyalgia, meaning that individuals with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it.
Trauma Survivors: Physical or emotional trauma, including accidents, surgeries, or significant psychological stress, can trigger the onset of fibromyalgia.
How acupuncture CAN help
Here at Herb + Ōhm Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine clinic in Chicago, we see many patients with fibromyalgia. Acupuncture can help those suffering from fibromyalgia in the following ways:
Pain Management: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce pain by stimulating the release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals. This can provide significant relief for fibromyalgia sufferers, who often experience chronic and widespread pain.
Improving Sleep Quality: Acupuncture can help improve sleep patterns by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Better sleep can, in turn, help reduce the severity of fibromyalgia symptoms.
Reducing Fatigue: By enhancing overall energy levels and reducing stress, acupuncture can help alleviate the persistent fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
Enhancing Mood: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression commonly experienced by fibromyalgia patients.
Complementary Therapy: Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional treatments such as medications and physical therapy, offering a holistic approach to managing fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a challenging and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly women, middle-aged individuals, and those with a family history or existing rheumatic diseases. While the exact cause remains unknown, managing the symptoms is crucial for improving quality of life. Acupuncture offers a promising complementary therapy, providing pain relief, improving sleep quality, reducing fatigue, and enhancing mood.
If you or someone you know is struggling with fibromyalgia in the Chicago area, contact Herb + Ōhm today to explore how acupuncture can become part of a comprehensive treatment plan.