Natural Remedies to Manage Fibromyalgia Pain

It is estimated that fibromyalgia affects 5 million Americans 18 or older. About 90 percent of those diagnosed with fibromyalgia pain syndrome are women, and most people are diagnosed when they’re middle aged.

Fibromyalgia diagnostic criteria uses 18 tender points to help determine the presence of fibromyalgia. Tender points are areas that are sensitive to touch and deep pressure. They are clustered around the neck, the hips and the joints of the extremities. 

Symptoms associated with fibromyalgia may fluctuate from person to person, but the most common complaint is that the sufferer aches all over. The pain is described as a deep bone ache, pins and needles, or sometimes, a burning pain. Flare-ups can occur where the pain feels especially acute. If the pain were not enough, headaches, chronic fatigue, mood swings, and flu-like symptoms are also reported.

Are there natural remedies one can use to alleviate or manage fibromyalgia pain? Yes! Natural treatments for fibromyalgia are much the same as for arthritis pain. Following are the top three suggestions:

• Clean up your diet – eliminate refined sugars from your diet. This is a big one. Sugar is a big contributor to inflammation. Cut back on wheat products and stick with whole grain only.

• Increase your intake of anti-inflammatory foods and spices such as papaya, turmeric.

•  Decrease or eliminate inflammatory foods such as dairy, sugar, red meat. 

• Get regular exercise. If it’s been a while since you’ve broke a sweat, then seek the advice of your doctor before beginning an exercise program. If you get the go-ahead, find a reputable personal trainer. You will achieve results faster and more efficiently with a trainer.

• Get regular massages. Most doctors recommend regular massage for fibromyalgia. Massage will increase circulation, relieve pain, and help you sleep better. It is very important that you choose a massage therapist who is familiar with fibromyalgia pain syndrome; otherwise your massage experience may be stressful and unpleasant.

Fibromyalgia is a painful condition that can be managed. Take control of your health and learn what you can do to bring your body back to homeostasis.