Fibromyalgia creates weakness and muscle pain, it can cause a slowing of the brain’s cognitive functions, resulting in what is commonly called “fibro fog”, and has countless other symptoms which render the sufferer almost incapacitated at times.

There are myriad medicines available to address the pain of fibromyalgia and others which are prescribed to help alleviate the depression that is so often accompanies this disease. However, there are also natural remedies that can be used to address the same symptoms without loading the body with many artificial drugs.

Magnesium – A Critical Mineral

Magnesium, a mineral which is critical to good health, is also widely taken as a supplement to treat pain. While many with fibromyalgia are helped by taking a magnesium supplement, the fact remains that not everyone who has FMS and pain are also deficient in magnesium. What is of interest is that research indicates that by taking adequate doses of magnesium together with malic acid over an extended period of time, fibromyalgia patients can significantly reduce the muscle and soft tissue pain associated with fibromyalgia.

Magnesium and ATP Production – Help for the Brain

Magnesium and malic acid are both key parts in the production and transportation of energy at a cellular level. Evidence suggests that muscle tissue breakdown associated with fibromyalgia is a result of the lack of oxygen to the muscles. Magnesium activates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is produced within the mitochondria. Nearly 20% of ATP production takes place in the brain, so diminished levels of magnesium can affect the cognitive functions of the brain.

It is also needed in the production of serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter connected to the perception of pain. People with fibromyalgia have significantly lower levels of serotonin. Magnesium is one of many co-factors needed to release and bind serotonin in the brain, creating a balanced mental function.

Malic Acid and What It Does

Malic acid is organic – the substance is found in fruits and plants. It too is involved in the production of energy in the body and is implicated in controlling mitochrondrial energy production at a cellular level. Malic acid provides stamina and endurance in the muscle cells. It is particularly useful in the blocking of aluminum toxicity, which is thought to be one contributor to fibromyalgia.

A Powerful Combo

Clinical tests are indicating more and more that malic acid is a great asset in the treatment of symptoms associated with fibromyalgia and chronic pain. The Journal of Nutritional Medicine published a study done with patients aged 32-60 who took a dosage of 200-2400mg of malic acid with 300-600mg of magnesium for four to eight weeks. The participants reported significant pain relief within 48 hours of taking the minerals.

The good news is that there is hope for those suffering with chronic pain and fibro fog. By supplying the body with the nutrients it needs, it can repair and rebuild itself.

Fibromyalgia and Ayurveda

The Frustration of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a difficult syndrome to diagnose and as such it is a frustrating condition for both the sufferer and the doctors who want to offer some relief to their patients. The symptoms are varied and myriad, affecting individuals in the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, gastrointestinal system, genitourinary system (genitals), and dermatological (skin) system. Additionally, there are miscellaneous symptoms that aren’t categorized systemically. It is often a mystery and the exact cause remains unknown. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), the number of adults in the US with FM is close to four million. However, other organizations put the number at twice that amount.

Treatment and Drug Therapies

The usual treatment for fibromyalgia combines exercise, medications, physical therapy, dietary changes and relaxation. Drug therapies include:

· Drugs for pain, including aspirin, ibuprofen and other types of pain relievers

· Antidepressants to relieve depression and help with sleep. Tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin boosters are the most commonly used

· Anxiolytics, which are drugs for anxiety also help with sleep

· Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine

Alternative Approaches to Healing

Several alternative approaches to healing are also recognized by medical practitioners as useful in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Some of these treatments include:

· Physical therapy

· Myofascial release

· Craniosacral therapy

· Posture and movement training

· Chiropractic

· Biofeedback

· Yoga

· Tai Chi

· Pilates

· Stress management

· Nutritional counseling

· Acupuncture

· Swimming

· Hot baths

· Diet

· Supplements such as 5HTP, DHEA, MSM and melatonin

What is Ayurvedic Medicine?

Ayurvedic medicine, also known as Ayurveda, is an ancient medical system that originated in India and has evolved there over thousands of years. Considered a whole medical system, each component of Ayurvedic medicine can be used on its own or in conjunction with the other aspects. Ayurveda focuses on the following:

· Integration and balance of the body, mind, and spirit

· Use of various products and techniques to cleanse the body and restore balance, including herbs, massage and special diets

The holistic approach to healing is designed to help prevent illness as well as treat illness through cleansing the body of substances that can cause disease and in so doing, reestablish harmony and balance.

8 Branches of Ayurvedic Medicine

There are eight branches of Ayurvedic medicine:

1. Internal medicine

2. Surgery

3. Treatment of head and neck disease

4. Gynecology, obstetrics, and pediatrics

5. Toxicology

6. Psychiatry

7. Care of the elderly and rejuvenation

8. Sexual vitality

Ayurvedic medicine is practiced in India today where about 80 percent of the population use it either exclusively or in combination with Western medicine.

How Ayuveda is Used to Treat Fibromyalgia

When treating fibromyalgia using Ayurvedic medicine, the idea is to restore basic physiological balance by stopping the causes of imbalances which are at the basis of the condition. An assessment of where the imbalances lie in what is termed the “biological intelligence” that controls the basic functions of the body – digestion, metabolism, elimination, circulation, nervous system and immunity is necessary. After the assessment, the use of natural approaches to address the imbalances produces the lessening of symptoms and in many cases the eventual disappearance of those symptoms.

The herbal approach to treating fibromyalgia centers on the use of turmeric, garlic, licorice root, ginger (as a tea) and various other herbal compounds that are administered in specific quantities throughout the day. An Ayurvedic specialist should evaluate the person to determine exactly what is necessary for that individual.

A specific diet and nutritional system that is suggested for those suffering from fibromyalgia includes the following foods and spices:

· Vegetable juices and soups

· Coconut water and coconut milk

· Carrot, cucumber and beet juices

· Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin

· Spices – cumin, coriander, ginger, asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric

· Green salad with dressing made of lemon juice and salt

· Khichadi (mixture of rice and mung dal)

Since stress exacerbates fibromyalgia, yoga and meditation along with yogasana stretching exercises are recommended to relieve stress, anxiety and tension. While pain medications and antidepressants may work well for some people, for others they are ineffective or the side effects are difficult to deal with. Ayurveda seems to be a viable alternative since it aims to not only heal the body, but it brings healing and peace to the mind and spirit as well.

Alternative Therapies for Fibromyalgia 

Unfortunately, there is no one specific medical solution that can offer relief for people suffering with fibromyalgia. There is no drug on the market that is specifically made for fibromyalgia sufferers, and no specific course of treatment that your doctor will prescribe. While your doctor will certainly have suggestions, and there are many drugs that they might offer to you to deal with your symptoms, they won’t give you a magic fix.

Many people search for alternative medicines and other options to help them to deal with their pain with fibromyalgia. Many of these treatments have been known to help patients on their own, while others seem to work in combination with drug therapies that your doctor might recommend. The old saying that “it can’t hurt” certainly holds true here – it’s worth it to try anything that you can to keep up your body’s strength, increase your sleep regularity and stave off your pain.

Acupuncture

In 2006, a study was done at the Mayo Clinic to see if acupuncture had an effect on fibromyalgia symptoms. Those studied found that it significantly improved their symptoms. The premise behind acupuncture is that is will restore the normal balance of your life forces by inserting tiny needles into pressure points in your body. This Chinese medical system is widely used throughout the world to alleviate stress and pain.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is one of the oldest methods of health care that is still used today. During a massage, the therapist will improve blood circulation in the muscles, increase the flow of nutrients and eliminate waste. Massage has been known to reduce the heart rate, to relax the muscles and to improve the range of motion in the joints. It can also help to get your body’s natural painkillers in motion to ward off your chronic pain. Massage often helps to reduce stress and anxiety, two conditions that are closely tied to fibromyalgia.

Osteopathy

Doctors in this field go through quite a rigorous training in both academic and clinical settings. They can perform many of the same procedures as conventional doctors. One area of focus that they use that may help patients with fibromyalgia is manipulation. They manipulate the joins and spine to try to alleviate pain and to reduce stress.

Yoga

Yoga is known to strengthen the core muscles in the body, to relax the body and to help you to become more limber. Before beginning a yoga program, however, you should speak to the instructor to tell them that you have fibromyalgia. You should also make sure with your doctor that he thinks that you are ready to try out yoga. You might even be able to find yoga groups that specifically cater to people with chronic pain.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy uses water as a form of therapy. Water exercises are very good for people with joint problems and with chronic pain, as they put less pressure on the joints than do other forms of exercise and other activities. Hydrotherapists are trained to work with patients in the water and to help them to alleviate pain in all areas of the body. This could be a great alternative way to get exercise while working to increase strength and to lessen chronic pain.

Fibromyalgia is a mysterious condition that inflicts its victims with muscle pain, fatigue, and tender points on the body that hurt when pressure is applied. It is through these tender points, 18 in all, that a diagnosis of fibromyalgia is often made. Along with the pain and fatigue, other symptoms include headaches, memory lapses, depression, sleep disorders and irritable bowel syndrome.

Food Allergens Cause Inflammation

Fibromyalgia (FM) is an inflammatory disorder and as such can be worsened with the consumption of certain foods. Food allergens can also exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms, causing an increase in inflammation and pain levels in the body. Most common food allergens include:

• Dairy
• Gluten
• Corn
• Soy
• Preservatives and food additives, especially MSG
• Alcohol
• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Citrus fruits
• Nightshades, including peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes and strawberries
• Nuts
• Shellfish
• Sugar

By eliminating these foods from the diet for a period of one month, and then gradually reintroducing them and noting body reactions, a person with FM can determine which foods cause problems. If symptoms worsen or return, it indicates sensitivity to that particular food and it should be eliminated from the diet entirely.

How Different Foods Affect Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Refined carbohydrates and sugar promote fatigue; they compromise the immune system and increase pain for the FM sufferer. Trans fats, found in margarine and baked goods, and saturated fats found in most animal products (meat, dairy and butter) all cause cholesterol levels to rise. The rise in cholesterol interferes with circulation which ultimately elevates pain levels. Animal products contain arachidonic acid, a promoter of inflammation as well as pain. It is better to eat vegetable based protein sources and avoid foods that increase inflammation in the body.

Which Foods Reduce Pain?

An anti-inflammatory diet can be of great help in the management of symptoms of fibromyalgia. Foods that reduce pain and inflammation include:

• Fresh fruit
• Beans
• Cold-water fish
• Dark leafy green vegetables
• Almonds
• Nuts
• Soybeans
• Seeds
• Seafood
• Unrefined, complex carbs such as brown rice and rolled oats
• Skinless turkey and chicken

Fresh fruit and vegetables are important because they contain plant sterols which are useful in stimulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. They are also rich in antioxidants that help to capture free radicals that do damage to joints and muscles. Dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds and seafood are all rich in magnesium, a mineral often deficient in FM sufferers. Muscle spasms and pain are frequently caused by magnesium deficiency.

Don’t Be Afraid

The reduction of animal products can cause worry for some people who fear inadequate protein consumption. However, it should not be difficult to get enough protein although supplementation may be necessary for vitamins B-12 and D as well as minerals zinc and calcium. It is possible to fulfill the dietary requirements for calcium through these foods:

• Dark leafy greens
• Almond, soy and rice milks
• Fortified orange juice
• Beans

It has long been established that a diet that is based on proper nutrition is beneficial for people with chronic conditions – including fibromyalgia. By eating a wide variety of whole foods inflammation and pain can be kept at a lower level and nutrition is enhanced. It is easy to obtain vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K as well as minerals such as magnesium, zinc and calcium, potassium, folate, and fiber through a vegetarian-style diet. By increasing the consumption of vitamins B and C the production of palliative neurotransmitters in the central nervous system are assisted, helping to reduce pain.

Dietary therapy is an accessible and inexpensive way to treat fibromyalgia symptoms naturally.

Swearing Helps Pain

Growing up, many of us were chastised for using cuss words. Some of us may have been told that using four-letter words implied a paucity of vocabulary words. Now, a new study suggests that using bad words may help us fight off pain. That’s good new for fibromyalgia sufferers who are on a continual quest for measures that may give them a break from the pain, if only for a short while.

The results of this study were published in the journal known as NeuroReport. The basic thrust of the study was to measure the length of time university students might be able to keep their hands submerged in ice water.

Sixty-seven students took part in the volunteer study. The students were given the option of choosing an expletive of their own choosing to repeat at will, or to chant a word considered neutral. The researchers found that when the students swore, they not only reported experiencing a lower level of pain, but that the cursing students managed to keep their hands submerged in the chill water for an approximate 40 seconds longer than those who chanted a neutral word.

Common Response To Pain

The researchers believe that while cursing has long been denigrated as a low-class behavior, there is every reason to think that swearing may have an upside. Richard Stephens, a psychologist at Keele University from England and the author of this study commented, “Swearing is such a common response to pain that there has to be an underlying reason why we do it. I would advise people, if they hurt themselves, to swear.”

While the researchers still don’t know how swearing works to relieve pain, they speculate that the part of the brain that is linked to emotion plays a part in this reaction. Previous studies have demonstrated that the section of the brain associated with neutral language resides in the last few outer millimeters on the left side of the brain. Curse words, however, stem from an ancient evolved instinct and the part of the brain responsible for this process is located somewhere deep inside the right hemisphere of the brain.

Fight Or Flight

Researchers posit that the amygdala may be responsible for part of this reaction. The amygdala is responsible for triggering the fight or flight response in which the heart rate rises and there is less sensitivity to pain. Scientists back up this assertion by explaining that the heart rates of the participating students rose when swearing, which suggests to the researchers that the amygdala was, indeed, aroused.

The upshot is that if you suffer from the pain of fibromyalgia, you may want to try cussing, but Stephens cautions that the swear words begin to lose their emotional potency the longer they are repeated. You may have to be creative and come up with some new bad words when the pain becomes unbearable. Here’s to bigger and better cursing!

Great strides have been made in recent years to uncover the causes of fibromyalgia (FM). FM is a common disorder that strikes more women than men and presents with muscle pain, sleep disturbance, weight gain, headaches and myriad other symptoms. Many FM sufferers are in constant pain and will do whatever they can to alleviate it.

New Research Points to Oxidative Stress

At one time the general consensus was that fibromyalgia was a muscle disorder; however, more current research indicates it is characterized by central sensitization of the spinal cord and central nervous system. The sensitization is the result of inflammatory cytokines that trigger an increase in oxidants, which in turn stimulate pain receptors. To boil all this down to simple terms, free radical damage and oxidative stress are now considered to be primary culprits in fibromyalgia symptoms.

What Is Oxidative Stress?

Oxidative stress is the damage caused to cells through the oxidative process in the body. Oxygen, the most vitally important element to human life, is necessary to fuel the millions of processes occurring continually within the body. Although the oxidative process is normal and necessary, it has a downside in that it has the ability to cause harmful side effects in the form of oxidative substances (free radicals) that lead to cellular damage.

The best way to describe this process is to liken it to rust. If an iron pipe is left outdoors exposed to the elements, it begins to rust. It is oxidation that causes rust. During the metabolism of normal oxygen cells, free oxygen radicals are formed. They are missing an electron and search to find a molecule to combine with in order to become whole. They fire charges that damage other cells around them. The result is rust. The same process happens within the body and the more free radicals there are running around inside, the more damage is done.

What Causes Free Radicals?

The elements that affect the human body and produce free radicals include:

• Cigarette smoke
• Alcohol
• Stress
• Unhealthy foods
• Environmental and air pollution
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Radiation
• Excessive exercise
• Increased exposure to sunlight

Depending upon what kind of toxin or stress a person is exposed to consistently, disease can become established early on if free radicals are not minimized. Going back to the recent research into the causes of fibromyalgia, oxidative stress, or free radicals are a very likely cause of this condition.

Antioxidants to the Rescue

The obvious antidote to oxidative stress is antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the cells in the body from oxidative stress damage by donating an electron to other molecules that are missing one (free radical). In doing this, the free radicals are neutralized and damage control is established. Antioxidants not only seek and destroy free radicals they also repair and prevent damage. The immune defense system is enhanced and the body is better able to fight off illness. Antioxidants are naturally produced in the body as enzymes.

• Superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione work to rid the body of free radicals.
• Superoxide dismutase changes the structure of oxidants and breaks them down into hydrogen peroxide.
• Catalase breaks the peroxide down into water and oxygen particles.
• Glutathione, which is a detoxifying agent, binds with the toxins that are released and removes them from the body as waste.

Where Antioxidants Can Be Found

Antioxidants are available in many foods, especially fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, grains and in some meats, fish, and poultry. Antioxidant nutrients include:

• Beta-carotene
• Lutein
• Lycopene
• Selenium
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

Since there is not yet a large enough body of research to allow for “antioxidant therapy” to be recognized, it is not routinely used to treat fibromyalgia. However, given the fact that recommended diets for this disorder include all of the foods that are high in antioxidant value, it can be assumed that one of the very likely root causes of fibromyalgia is being addressed through diet.