Overview:
Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia (FM) has become more common over the years, especially since more and more research has shown the benefits of this treatment. Fibromyalgia is a difficult condition to diagnose and treat, and many people with it have trouble tolerating drugs and even supplements. Complementary and alternative therapies like acupuncture are incredibly appealing and represent a possible way to relieve Fibromyalgia symptoms.
Symptoms:
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive impairment, depression, environmental sensitivities, and digestive symptoms.
In this illness, experts believe that pain signals are exaggerated by the brain and nerves, amplifying the sensation of pain you experience. This disordered signal processing leads to several abnormal types of pain.
No objective blood or imaging tests can identify it, so Fibromyalgia is diagnosed with subjective criteria and by excluding other possible causes of symptoms.
Treatment may involve antidepressants to target abnormal brain chemistry, physical therapy, massage, lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medications specifically approved to treat Fibromyalgia, such as Lyrica (pregabalin).
How to test for Fibromyalgia:
To diagnose Fibromyalgia, doctors rely on symptoms, tests to exclude similar illnesses, and two questionnaires called the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and Symptom Severity Scale (SS). A high enough combined score indicates Fibromyalgia. However, some doctors may still use a tender point exam to measure widespread pain, but this method has generally been replaced with the WPI and SS.
How can acupuncture help Fibromyalgia:
Acupuncture points are located on meridians; however, modern acupuncture may also be performed on myofascial trigger points, which are tight areas of connective tissue that can radiate pain.
Most people—even those with Fibromyalgia—report no pain or just a momentary twinge when the needles are inserted and upon needle grasp, which often indicates a blockage in the meridian channel.
The ancient explanation of acupuncture’s benefits enables the flow of life energy called qi throughout the body. The theory held by Western medicine is that acupuncture stimulates or activates several mechanisms in the body, including the following:
Peripheral and central nervous systems
Spinal glial (white matter) cells
Endogenous opioid system (a natural pain-relieving mechanism in the nervous system)
Pain inhibition system in the central nervous system (which is believed to be dysfunctional in Fibromyalgia)
At Gulf Coast Acupuncture and Fertility, we are here to help you feel better. Our office is minutes away from the Pensacola International Airport and is easily accessible from the I-10. Book your appointment today. (850) 331-9991
Sources:
Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia - Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/acupuncture-for-fibromyalgia-5114368