Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that affects the nervous system and is characterized by symptoms of widespread pain. There is no test or even cure for this condition, so it can be very frustrating for people who are living with it. However, there are some treatments, both traditional and holistic, that can help to reduce symptoms of chronic pain for people living with Fibromyalgia. Acupuncture can help to reduce symptoms of pain for people who are living with this condition, and it’s becoming a more popular holistic treatment for many who are diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a very misunderstood condition as it’s hard to treat and even detect. Characteristics of this condition include experiencing chronic pain throughout the body and pain when being touched. While there is no definitive testing for this condition, with analysis of symptoms and examinations, it can be determined whether or not a person is living with Fibromyalgia. Most people who are diagnosed with Fibromyalgia are women, but it’s not understood why more women are living with this condition than men. People of any age can develop this condition, but it mostly occurs in people who are middle age and older.

The causes of Fibromyalgia are unknown. However, there is evidence to suggest that people are at a higher risk of developing this condition. People who are at a higher risk for Fibromyalgia include people who are diagnosed with other physical conditions, especially rheumatoid conditions, like arthritis, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Many people who are struggling with the symptoms of Fibromyalgia look to acupuncture because acupuncture is well-known for helping to reduce symptoms of chronic pain. However, it is suggested that people who are diagnosed with Fibromyalgia use acupuncture in a combination of traditional treatments provided in medical settings. And, also utilize self-care techniques in order to manage symptoms including exercising and setting healthy sleep routines. Acupuncture is a great tool in the management of Fibromyalgia symptoms because it is safe, has little risk of side effects, and is non-invasive.

It’s believed that acupuncture for Fibromyalgia works to reduce symptoms in a couple of different ways. Firstly, acupuncture can help to stimulate the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This neurotransmitter is responsible for a number of functions in the body including sex drive, mood management, digestive functioning, and more. People who are living with Fibromyalgia typically have low serotonin levels, so it’s thought that improving the production of this specific brain chemical can help people living with this condition. Secondly, acupuncture works to decrease the production of another neurotransmitter, Substance P. This brain chemical is responsible for how a person perceives pain. It’s thought that Substance P levels are higher in people with Fibromyalgia, which would explain why people living with this condition experience painful stimuli without any injury.

If you are struggling with symptoms of Fibromyalgia and looking for a more natural method of treatment to include in your treatment plan, consider acupuncture services available at Acupuncture Zen. Find out more about our acupuncture services and what you can expect during sessions on our website.