Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition affecting approximately 6 million people in the United States. Its hallmark symptom is widespread pain often described as a consistent, dull ache. Often mistaken for arthritis, fibromyalgia can cause significant pain and fatigue, and it can interfere with a person’s mood or ability to sleep. Fibromyalgia can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms are common to many other diseases and can come and go. Apart from pain and fatigue, symptoms can include dry eyes, rash, itching, abdominal pain, bladder problems, depression, and anxiety. Fibro fog, characterized by memory lapses and difficulty concentrating, is another common symptom.

Science has shown that the endocannabinoid system plays a pivotal role in the way we perceive pain. It therefore may prove to be helpful in understanding and identifying Fibromyalgia and the best course for medical treatment. The endocannabinoid system's activation under stressful conditions suggests a potential link between chronic stress, pain, and the development of Fibromyalgia. Understanding how this system modulates pain perception could open new avenues https://www.theololife.com/blog-posts/navigating-the-endocannabinoid-system medical interventions and contribute to more effective treatments for individuals grappling with the challenges of Fibromyalgia.

How to recognize Fibromyalgia

While pain can occur all over the body, specific “tender points” are associated with Fibromyalgia. Tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs that are especially painful when pressure is put on them.¹ People with fibromyalgia may be challenged by routine tasks like climbing stairs, walking short distances, and managing daily activities. Even brief periods of physical or mental exertion may leave patients exhausted. Fibromyalgia may also be associated with depression and anxiety. ^{5, 7, 9} Symptoms of fibromyalgia can include the following:

• Increased sensitivity to pain, temperature and sensitivity to loud noises or bright lights
• A deep ache or a burning pain that gets worse because of activity, stress, weather or other factors
• Muscle stiffness or spasms
• Pain that moves around your body
• Feeling very tired or fatigued, even when you get enough sleep ^{2, 3}

• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Headaches, including migraines
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Sleep disturbances
• Cognitive problems with thinking and memory
• Painful menstrual periods and other pain syndromes⁵ 

What causes Fibromyalgia?

In some cases, fibromyalgia symptoms begin shortly after a person has experienced a mentally or physically traumatic event, such as a car wreck. Notably, individuals who have post-traumatic stress disorder appear to be more likely to develop fibromyalgia. Hereditary and genetic factors appear to be linked to fibromyalgia. Inform your healthcare provider if you’ve experienced any traumatic events or if any other members of your immediate family have experienced similar symptoms.  While the precise causes and risk factors for fibromyalgia remain elusive, there are some loosely associated triggers linked to the onset of the condition:

• Stressful or traumatic events, such as car accidents, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 
• Repetitive injuries 
• Illness 
• Certain diseases (Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) 
• Genetic predisposition
• Obesity⁵ 

Can Fibromyalgia be treated?

There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment has the potential to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected. Medications, self-care strategies, and lifestyle changes play a significant role in alleviating pain and enhancing overall well-being.

Medication

Commonly prescribed medications for fibromyalgia include pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs like pregabalin, and antidepressants such as duloxetine and milnacipran. Opioids have been prescribed in the past but have shown limited effectiveness. Natural remedies like acupuncture, massage therapy, and stress-reduction techniques have been shown to complement pharmaceutical treatments.

Supplementation

CBD, or cannabidiol, has been suggested as a potential treatment for fibromyalgia due to its reported pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. By modulating the activity of the endocannabinoid system, CBD may help regulate pain perception, reduce inflammation, and improve mood, which are all relevant to fibromyalgia symptoms. However, the exact mechanisms underlying CBD's effects on fibromyalgia are still being researched, and its efficacy can vary from person to person.

It's important to note that while daily supplementation with CBD shows promise as a potential treatment for fibromyalgia, more clinical studies are needed to establish its effectiveness, safety, and optimal dosage for this condition. Individuals considering CBD for fibromyalgia should consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and to discuss potential risks and benefits.

Physical Therapy & Exercise

Embracing regular, moderate exercise is one of the most beneficial steps for individuals with fibromyalgia. Engaging in physical activity not only helps alleviate pain but also boosts energy levels, reduces stress, and promotes better sleep. Prior to starting any exercise regimen, consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you're new to physical activity. Typically, beginning with low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking or water aerobics a few days a week, is recommended. As your pain diminishes and energy levels rise, you can gradually intensify and expand the duration of your exercise routine.

Behavioral Health

As a chronic condition, Fibromyalgia can impact patients over the long term. Effective symptom management involves multidisciplinary treatment, including screening and treating depression. Taking an active approach to symptom management, it is important to maintain a positive outlook and set achievable short-term goals. Recognizing and reducing stress, establishing healthy sleep habits, maintaining routines, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and weight management, are key components of effective symptom control. Seek support from healthcare teams, friends, and dedicated support groups to successfully navigate the challenges of fibromyalgia.

Complementary Alternative Medicine

Research on complementary health approaches for fibromyalgia is in its early stages. However, practices like tai chi, massage, and acupuncture therapy show promise in alleviating symptoms. It's important to communicate any complementary health methods to your healthcare providers, providing a comprehensive overview of your health management for coordinated and safe care.

Tai Chi

Research suggests that tai chi—a practice originating in China that involves moving the body slowly, gently, and with awareness—may provide a benefit to patients with fibromyalgia. A 2010 study compared the effects of a tai chi program with a wellness education and stretching program for managing fibromyalgia over a 12-week period⁷. Researchers found that the participants in the tai chi group had significant improvements in symptoms such as pain, sleep quality, depression, and quality of life, and maintained these benefits for up to 24 weeks. A larger follow-up study of tai chi for fibromyalgia is underway.

Massage

A 2009 study compared the effects of manual lymph drainage therapy and connective tissue massage in women with fibromyalgia. The researchers found that both types of massage helped to reduce pain, improve quality of life, and increase the pain pressure threshold. Manual lymph drainage therapy had a greater effect on the participants’ overall health⁷. 

Acupuncture

A 2010 systematic review of acupuncture for fibromyalgia concluded that acupuncture had a small pain-relieving effect. However, it's important to note that individual responses to acupuncture may vary, and further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

Fibromyalgia, though challenging to diagnose and manage, is a real and impactful condition. Understanding its symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment, and embracing supportive strategies can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals living with fibromyalgia.

Links

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/fibromyalgia.html 

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia-symptoms/AR00054 

http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia.printerview.all.html

http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Fibromyalgia/default.asp 

http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/fibromyalgia.htm

http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm107802.htm 

http://nccam.nih.gov/

http://www.theacpa.org/uploads/FibroHandbook.pdf

http://www.empr.com/fibromyalgia-a-diagnosis-of-exclusion-no-longer/article/310074/

References

1. NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
3. American Academy of Family Physicians
4. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
6. Food and Drug Administration
7. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
8. EpicGenetics, Inc. 1640 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 214 Los Angeles, CA. 90025
9. Monthly Prescribing Reference, 09/04/ 2013. Fibromyalgia: A Diagnosis of Exclusion No Longer 
10. American Chronic Pain Association
11. Goldberg, DL. Clinical Management of Fibromyalgia, 2009 NY. Professional Communications
12. Starz, TW & Turk, DC. Diagnosing Fibromyalgia. 2010
13. Kaufmann I, Schelling G, Eisner C, Richter HP, Krauseneck T, Vogeser M, Hauer D, Campolongo P,   Chouker A, Beyer A, Thiel M. Anandamide and neutrophil function in patients with fibromyalgia. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2008 Jun;33(5):676-85. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2008.02.009. Epub 2008 Apr 18. PMID: 18395993.

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