Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points. “Tender points” refers to tenderness that occurs in precise, localized areas, particularly in the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips.
People with this syndrome may also experience sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, anxiety, and other symptoms.
According to the American College of Rheumatology, it’s estimated that 3 to 6 million Americans are living with this musculoskeletal disorder, two-thirds of them women, most of them white, and most between 20 and 60 years old when first affected.
The Merck Manual defines Fibromyalgia as used to describe several related disorders. Various alternative terms for these disorders have been used, including generalized fibromyalgia, which is seven times more common in women than in men, the pain and stiffness are widespread, occurring throughout the body.
Primary fibromyalgia syndrome is the most common variation of generalized fibromyalgia; it usually occurs in young or middle-aged women who have no associated or contributing underlying disorder. Secondary fibromyalgia syndrome is a type of generalized fibromyalgia and refers to fibromyalgia symptoms in a person who has another underlying disorder that is causing the fibromyalgia symptoms, such as Hypothyroidism. Other disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid Arthritis, may be associated with fibromyalgia, but may not be the underlying cause.
Secondary fibromyalgia syndrome is a type of generalized fibromyalgia and refers to fibromyalgia symptoms in a person who has another underlying disorder that is causing the fibromyalgia symptoms, such as Hypothyroidism. Other disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid Arthritis, may be associated with fibromyalgia, but may not be the underlying cause.
Localized fibromyalgia expresses as pain and stiffness occurring in a particular area, or at a few sites, such as the jaw, neck, and/or shoulder muscles. Localized fibromyalgia is somewhat more likely to occur in men, possibly because they are more likely to engage in more physically muscular activities in occupational or sports situations. Sometimes, localized fibromyalgia gradually spreads to become generalized fibromyalgia.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a type of localized or regional fibromyalgia, which may occur in various sites and differentiated as temporomandibular type and myofascial pain syndrome. Previously, these disorders were collectively called Fibrositis or fibromyositis syndromes, but because inflammation is not present, the “itis” suffix was dropped.
Often considered the “garbage pail diagnosis”, the term fibromyalgia is used when doctors often do not know how to categorize or quantify these combinations of symptoms. There is no firm physical evidence of disease that can be detected by blood tests or X-rays. Doctors diagnose fibromyalgia by testing 18 tender points, starting between the shoulders. People complain they are tender all over the body, but these areas, all where muscles attach to ligaments or bones, tend to have pain with just the pressure of a thumb.
Doctors diagnose fibromyalgia by testing 18 tender points, starting between the shoulders. People complain they are tender all over the body, but these areas, all where muscles attach to ligaments or bones, tend to have pain with just the pressure of a thumb.
Symptoms that seem to be associated with fibromyalgia include Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Headaches with facial pain, heightened sensitivity, chronic fatigue and Insomnia. Anxiety is a common problem in fibromyalgia and contributes to pain, muscle Tension, and irritability. It can make depression and Insomnia worse.
Naturally Helping Fibromyalgia
Finding Balance: in a modern society we tend to “burn the Candle at both ends”. There MUST be a proper balance in the amount of work that we do, in the amount of sleep we have in the foods that we enjoy and in the amount of “down time” we give ourselves.
Excessive Work: can drain the very core of our energy. Today, if you are not working for a company who is placing high demands on your time, health and relationships, then you have your own business, which often has no boundaries when it comes to building and maintaining your dream.
Improper Diet: can be a nutrition zapper that robs the body of proper Vitamins, mineral and sufficient Amino Acids that are important for energy. A balance of fresh vegetables, complexed carbs, whole grain, as well as, fruits, nuts, seeds, and protein are very important for maintaining proper energy levels.
Lack of Exercise: is a major problem in fatigue syndromes. Regular exercise builds stamina that can help anyone battle stress. But even something as casual as a walk around the block can help you burn off some of the Tension that you carrying around. Stretching is a great Tension reducer.
Poor Sleep Habits: can drain us of a good day full of vital energy. Overthinking, anxiety and a racing mind are all issues that cause difficulty in falling asleep and/or difficulty staying asleep.
Dehydration: is a hidden issue that is seldom realized. Thirst is one indicator of dehydration, but it is not an early warning sign. By the time you feel thirsty, you might already be dehydrated. Other symptoms of dehydration include feeling dizzy and lightheaded, having a dry or sticky mouth, producing less urine and darker urine. As the condition progresses, a person will start to feel much sicker as more body systems (or organs) are affected by the dehydration.
Poor Assimilation: Difficulties with the digestive tract such as thirst, gas, Bloating, nausea, vomiting, Acid Reflux are symptoms of poor assimilation of food. The delicate balance of our digestive system can affect our whole system in so many ways.
Poor Elimination: results when food moves too slowly through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Poor elimination is usually diagnosed when bowel movements occur fewer than three times per week on an ongoing basis. Other signs occur when the stool is hard, dry or there is excessive straining. The stool can often be described as “rabbit pellets” or like “toothpaste squeezed from the tube”. Sometimes it is painful to pass. Sometimes the patient does not feel complete after a bowel movement.
Herbal Remedies for Fibromyalgia
The medicinal benefits of Herbs have been recorded for centuries. Herbs were extensively used to cure practically every known illness and have been documented by Egyptian, Roman, Native American, Persians, and Hebrews alike.
Many Herbs contain powerful ingredients that, if used correctly, can help heal the body. By using Herbs in their complete form, the body’s healing process utilizes a balance of the ingredients provided by nature.
Herbs and herbal formulas can be taken in a variety of ways.
* You may steep Herbs as Teas in order to release their healing properties.
* Herbal Supplements in pills and capsules are another form. These are Herbs ground into powder. Herbal formulas tend to be created for a single problem or nest of related problems and their specific pattern of disharmony.
* Tinctures. Herbal Remedies are also prescribed in tincture form and are the previously fresh herb in well preserved, highly concentrated form. This liquid, as well as, concentrated forms of extracted Herbs are preserved in their freshest form.
* Steam distillation or cold pressing results in Herbs as essential oils.
* Plasters are ingredients such as oils, Herbs, and other pain-relieving Herbs combined into an easy to use stick on strip or patch.
* Poultice are macerated or chopped Herbs that are placed directly on the skin and a hot, moist bandage is applied.
* Infusions are used when you are working with the most delicate part of the herb-the leaves flowers, fruits, and seeds.
* Decoction is used to extract the tougher part of the herb-Bark, berries, and roots.
It is also important to note that since Herbs contain active ingredients, be aware that some elements may interact negatively with prescribed medications! Therefore, your healthcare professional must be notified if you have any questions about safety. As a general rule: most of the bitter tasting Herbs are medicinal Herbs and the pleasant tasting Herbs are less toxic and can be used more often.
Also, some Herbs in any form, should not be taken for more than seven days at a time. Others Herbs are more beneficial with time. The fresh leaves, Bark, and roots of Herbs can be used in their natural form or can be found in dried form and used in capsules, tablets, tinctures, essential oils, powders, creams, lotions, and salves.
Herbal Medicine is a wonderful solution for pain and pain management. Complications can arise when taking Herbal Medicine and allopathic drugs internally, which your doctor has prescribed. Great caution should be used especially if you are on blood thinners, diuretics or heart-related medication. Consult your doctor with any questions you may have, before taking additional Herbs or Supplements, internally.
Arnica Suave is a rich blend of Quartz silica, amber resin and the pain-relieving power of Arnica in a special massage-in suave designed by Andrew for his practice and is a part of his new “Crystal Inspirations” product line.
Boswellia has unique anti-inflammatory action, much like the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used by many for inflammatory conditions. Unlike NSAIDs, however, long-term use of Boswellia does not lead to irritation or ulceration of the stomach.
Bromelain is a plant-enzyme. Bromelain is not actually a single substance, but a group of protein-digesting enzymes found in pineapple juice and in the stem of pineapple plants. Local swelling is the releasing of histamines in a localized area causes the vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels.
Bromelain has an anti-inflammatory effect and is a very effective treatment for fibromyalgia. It is recommend taking 200 to 400 milligrams three times a day on an empty stomach at least ninety minutes before or three hours after eating. Discontinue use if you develop any itching or rash.
Cayenne Pepper (Capsaicin) A cream containing small amounts of Capsaicin can help relieve pain when rubbed onto muscle pain and arthritic joints, according to the results of a double-blind study. It does this by depleting the nerves of a pain-mediating neurotransmitter known as substance P.
Although the application of capsaicin cream may initially cause a burning feeling, the burning will lessen with each application and soon disappear for most people. A cream containing 0.025–0.075% of capsaicin can be applied to the affected joints three to five times a day.
Devils Claw: An analgesic and anti-inflammatory. Dosage: one to two grams, three times daily.
Ginger: An anti-inflammatory. Ginger has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory. Taking fresh or powdered Ginger per day might be helpful. Suggested Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg of powdered Ginger daily
Ginger Tea: Add one grated teaspoon of fresh Ginger to a cup of hot water. Take two times daily.
Glucosamine Sulfate (GS), a nutrient derived from sea shells, contains a building block needed for the repair of joint cartilage. GS has significantly reduced symptoms of osteoarthritis.
All published clinical investigations on the effects of GS in people with osteoarthritis report statistically significant improvement. Most research trials use 500 mg GS taken three times per day. Benefits from GS generally become evident after three to eight weeks of treatment. Avoid if you have any allergic reactions to shell fish.
Glucosamine stimulates the production of the specific elements of cartilage and protects them. It helps your body repair worn cartilage, reduce pain, and improve function. Chondroitin attracts fluids into proteoglycans, the molecules dispersed throughout the cartilage that give the tissue its shock-absorber quality and protects the cartilage against breakdown. These are substances the body already produces for itself in small amounts.
Glucosamine is found in almost all tissue; it has a role in the repair and maintenance of joint cartilage. Chondroitin Sulfate is a major component of cartilage and is thought to inhibit the enzymes that contribute to the breakdown of cartilage.
S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) possesses anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and tissue-healing properties that may help protect the health of joints.SAM-e is derived from methionine, an essential amino acid; it may promote cartilage formation and repair. Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate are usually sold together. In clinical studies, the Supplements had to be taken for several weeks before providing any pain relief. Don’t forget the truly natural and proven methods for battling osteoarthritis, lose excess weight and exercise.
Licorice root: An anti-inflammatory. Long-term use can elevate blood pressure and increase potassium loss. Dosage: one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon of a 5: 1 solid extract up to three times daily.
Turmeric: An effective anti-inflammatory. Dosage: 400 mg three times daily; take on an empty stomach and combine with 1,000 mg of Bromelain
White Willow Bark: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. White Willow Bark has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Extracts providing 120 mg salicin per day are approved for people with rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the analgesic actions of willow are typically slow-acting, they last longer than aspirin.
Effective Treatment for Fibromyalgia Pain
FibroFree Complex is a safe, non-addictive, FDA-registered natural remedy containing 100% homeopathic ingredients selected to relieve localized muscle pain, tender ligaments, sore tendons and tender spots on the body.
FibroFree Complex may be taken at the first sign of tenderness as it works quickly to soothe body aches, cramps and pains, as well as alleviate facial pain and headaches.
This remedy contains a selection of homeopathic ingredients known to relieve fatigue and promote energy levels, mood and mental clarity (reducing the feeling of ‘brain fog’), without side effects.
FibroFree Complex is taken internally and presented in a convenient, concentrated tincture formula. It is easy to ingest and hassle–free with no artificial colors or preservatives. It is safe for all ages, including pregnant women or those who may be breastfeeding.
Learn more about FibroFree Complex now.
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