Studies show that at least 3 to 5 million Americans suffer with fibromyalgia. It is found mostly in women of childbearing age, but it can strike anyone at any age.

Many studies have tried to find a cause of fibromyalgia without success. For example, the muscle tissue is totally normal. Consequently, the diagnosis is usually made by the widespread nature of the areas of pain or tenderness and the lack of another cause. Currently, there are a number of leading causes being considered. The syndrome may be triggered or caused by injury or trauma. For example, some patient’s have the first signs of fibromyalgia following an auto accident or severe stress in their lives. Some researchers feel that fibromyalgia may also be associated with changes in muscle metabolism, such as decreased blood flow. Others are looking for a viral agent, as some people with fibromyalgia also have chronic fatigue syndrome.

The major symptoms of fibromyalgia include tenderness, fatigue, depression and anxiety. The distinguishing classic signs are multiple areas of muscle or joint pains.

These painful areas cover at least one extremity and are usually found through the body in over a minimum of eleven different areas. Before being considered as fibromyalgia, the pain must have been present for at least three months.

Basically, there is no definitive test for fibromyalgia. If there is no other cause of your pain(s), if it covers a large portion of your body and you have had it for months, then you may be diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a paradox.

“Studies show that at least 3 to 5 million
Americans suffer with fibromyalgia.”

There is no specific treatment for fibromyalgia because there is no one cause for it. There is a change in the nervous system of the patient, as well as in the muscle system. Consequently, there must be a multifaceted approach to its treatment. For example, antiinflammatory medications give some help, but they do not give long lasting aid to many patients with fibromyalgia.

The treatment must be personalized. It is similar to peeling an onion. The physician will help with one area of pain and discomfort and then progress to another area with a slightly different treatment protocol.

A complete examination of your muscular and nervous system will reveal where abnormal muscle stress is coming from.

Remember, the muscle tissue is normal - it is just in contraction and causing pain. First, we need to find methods that will reduce the contractions and trigger points. These will include structural changes, controlled exercise and nutritional support to help the muscles relax and reduce the contractions. Next, we need to reduce the overall inflammation in your body. This will require a balancing of both omega 3 and omega 6 oils and their cofactors.

One of the latest findings in some fibromyalgia patients is that they have changes in brain chemistry. Many rheumatologists now routinely give anti-depressive medications to fibromyalgia patients. These help some for a time, but fail to help a large portion of the patients.

A program that is personalized for the patient needs to be developed, including most, if not all, of the following factors: