Home treatments for fibromyalgia

In the United States alone, there are currently at least 6 million people suffering from Fibromyalgia. However, the numbers might be much larger than what is stated as misdiagnosis of the condition is very rampant. This is because symptoms seen in Fibromyalgia are very similar to other medical diseases, illnesses and conditions.

Fibromyalgia is a ailment which strongly resembles other illnesses with various conditions such a chemical sensitivities, chronic fatigue syndrome, muscle fiber syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. There are many treatments for Fibromyalgia, but are there any home remedies or treatments for this syndrome? Fortunately, with the help of many researchers and medical experts, they have come up with a list of home treatments which one can use in order to lessen the debilitating effects of Fibromyalgia on a person.

Another important thing to consider is the symptoms of Fibromyalgia. The most common symptoms of this syndrome are difficulty in sleeping, sleep apnea, sleep deprivation, fatigue, pain which resembles arthritis in severity and other more serious symptoms which can result in physical, emotional and psychological degeneration.

There are many forms of medication available to ease sufferers from the pain and discomfort associated with Fibromyalgia, which are commonly artificial medication that provides results however have certain side effects. However, there are available alternative treatments today which you can do in the comforts of your home which has relatively no side-effects but can help people in this dreadful ailment.

Muscle pains, fatigue and sleep disorders are the main problems people suffer from Fibromyalgia. However, the right amount of exercise can provide a home treatment which can really help in providing relief for Fibromyalgia sufferers. There are many types of exercise one can do in order to treat this debilitating syndrome.

Exercise has been supported universally in the medical world because of its proven results in maintaining and preserving the optimal function of the body. Exercise enables the body to retain its flexibility, vigor and response. Through exercise one can easily control weight gain and maintenance. In connection with Fibromyalgia, exercise is necessary in order to reduce the effects and symptoms of this syndrome. There are many benefits one can enjoy once a person develops a sustained exercise routine. These are some of the benefits once you exercise.

Your body produces Endorphins

Endorphin is a neurochemical which is reason why people “feel” good after doing exercise. This chemical helps the body reduces the effects of adrenaline which is associated with stress. Endorphins help the body cope with stress and as a result uplift the psychological health of the person. The chemical also helps people deal with anxiety and can effectively decrease the onset of depression in individuals afflicted with this debilitating syndrome.

Your body produces Serotonin

Serotonin is a chemical produced by the body which is responsible for the effective communication between cells. It is normally called a neurotransmitter which is responsible for the effective relay of information between cells, especially neurons which are also called as “brain cells.” Scientists and researchers have discovered that serotonin and the levels present in the body affect the mood and attitude of a person. Low levels of serotonin often makes people irritable, anxious and even violent, while high levels of this chemical produces a calming effect, mood enhancer and the “feel good” effect. Endorphins and Serotonin are both results of exercise. Regular exercise ensures the psychological health of a person, thus allow him or her to handle Fibromyalgia properly.

Types of exercise for Fibromyalgia patients

There are three main types of exercise people with Fibromyalgia can do in order to treat its symptoms. Understanding this three main types of exercise can help people find the best routine to help them from the pain and discomfort associated with Fibromyalgia.

Stretching

This form of exercise involves mainly the joints and exercises the full range of motion of the limbs, Fibromyalgia symptoms involve pain and fatigue in these regions of the body, which is why exercising these places can effectively reduce the pain felt by sufferers in these areas.

Endurance

Endurance exercises involve cardiovascular exercises which strengthen the muscle and also help in weight loss. Examples of endurance exercise is biking, walking, running and swimming. These exercises improve the secretion of chemicals such a endorphins and serotonin which directly affects the mood and mental health of an individual. With the regular implementation of such exercise regimen, one can expect to strengthen not only the physical side of the body but also the emotional stability of the person inflicted with Fibromyalgia.

Strength-building

It is important to understand that Fibromyalgia normally affects the muscles which are the cause of the pain one feels. Strength-building exercises, especially working on the joints will help strengthen your muscles and stamina. Oxygen circulation will also be improved during exercises, especially in strenuous activities. One must only consider consulting physical therapists in order not to over-exert the body resulting into injuries.

Other forms of exercises

These are some of the alternative forms of exercise one can use to help them in relieving pain and stress which is caused by Fibromyalgia.

Tai Chi

This is a Chinese form of meditative exercise that uses slow, concentrated movements aimed to strengthen the muscles and mind. Through Tai Chi, people suffering from Fibromyalgia can expect to retain flexibility in the joints and reduce the pain associated with the syndrome. Tai Chi helps condition the muscles as each movements are concentrated and tensed. Fibromyalgia patients can use Tai Chi as a way to relieve stress thus reduces the psychological disturbances caused by the debilitating pain.

Yoga

This is a ancient exercise that relieves stress through stretching and bending. This form of exercise increases the flexibility of the person and provides a meditative session wherein one can also exercise the emotional aspect of an individual. Through yoga, tensions and anxiety that results from stress, especially due to Fibromyalgia can be effectively reduced. The movements in Yoga decreases tension in the joints and reduce the pain in the muscles. The flexibility of the person is drastically improved and the effects of Fibromyalgia, especially the arthritic pain that overwhelms people. Also as stress is reduced, people can relatively get satisfying rest and sleep.

Importance of exercise in treating Fibromyalgia

Exercise is an important part in treating Fibromyalgia as it helps in the production of mood enhancing hormones, flexibility and strength of the body and the preservation of cells in the body through the enhanced circulation of the oxygen in the body through blood circulation. The levels of oxygen each cells receive totally depends on the efficiency of its circulation by the blood. It is very important to understand that oxygen helps the body regenerate and remove toxins and free radicals that speeds up the deterioration of the body and its functions.

2. Using alternative medicinal treatments for Fibromyalgia

Alternative medicine is one of the major sources of home treatments of various kinds of health conditions. Traditional medicine has also its own list of treatments for Fibromyalgia and these are some of the most famous today.

Astralagus

This is one of the traditional herbs used mainly in traditional Chinese medicine. This plant has been a part of ancient medical knowledge which has been used for centuries by Chinese herbalists. The main part of this plant that has been used in medicinal usage is its roots. The main effect of using Astralagus is its antioxidant effect and its effect in the immune system of the body. Though there are many more benefits linked to Astralagus use, none is more observed than its effect on the immunity of an individual. It effect on Fibromyalgia patients is its potential to reduce the fatigue caused by the syndrome and also strengthen the body’s immune system to ward off any potential bacterial or viral infections.

The Sloane-Kettering Cancer center provided extensive studies and research on the effect of Astralagus in the body and it has shown a positive effect in providing cancer patients the immunity boost they desperately need. Monocytes and Lymphocytes are among the immune cells which the enzymes seen in Astralagus help. This study was also backed by the University of Maryland medical center.

Astralagus also improves the body’s utilization of oxygen reducing fatigue and muscle pain. The Astralagus extract can help the body cope with stress and can help reduce its ill effects. As Fibromyalgia burdens the sufferer with pain and emotional stress, using Astralagus can be one of the best alternative and home treatments one can do. Aside from boosting the immunity and relieving stress, Astralagus can have a postivie effect for people with diabetes, asthma and even AIDS. Though further researches are needed in order to confirm any beneficial effects for the said diseases, the potential of Astralagus as a treatment for the said illnesses is very promising.

Boswellia

Boswellia is one of the famous sources of alternative cure for many people India. The resin of this tree, which is prevalent in India, has been present in traditional alternative medicine in India for centuries. The Boswellia extract has been used to treat inflammations caused by conditions such as arthritis. Fibromyalgia is a condition where it is characterized by arthritic-like pain in the joints and muscles. Because of the pain-relieving properties of the Boswellia extract, it has become a popular alternative medicine for people suffering from this condition.

The use of Boswellia in Ayurvedic or traditional Indian medicine has always been included. The University of Michigan stated that Boswellia extract has been used to treat arthritis foremost, dysentery, pulmonary disease and asthma. The positive effects of Boswellia in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis sparked the interest of many, especially those concerned with treating Fibromyalgia. As observed by researchers in the University of Pittsburg Medical center, the extract was seen to provide relief for Fibromyalgia sufferers.

Boswellia can help people suffering from Fibromyalgia by reducing pain, especially in the joints. Though Fibromyalgia has no swelling symptoms and Boswellia extract has been known to treat inflammation of the joints, the pain-relieving effects can still be effective. Other benefits of using Boswellia extract is the reduction of cramps caused by menstruation, treatment of bursitis and colitis. This finding was confirmed by the University of Pittsburg Medical center and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

In a 2001 study published in the Journal Transplantation, they have found out that the effects of Boswellia can be as effective as a strong steroidal drug which is extremely efficient in reduce swelling and eliminates pain. Also it has been confirmed by many more medical research that Boswellia was effective in combating rheumatoid arthritis and the pain associated with it. Fibromyalgia’s main symptoms are pain which is compared by sufferers to rheumatic arthritis. Through the use of the Boswellia extract, one can see relief on the pain Fibromyalgia sufferers experience everyday of their lives.

Cayenne Peppers

Cayenne peppers have a unique chemical called Capsaicin. This is responsible for the “hot” sensation felt by people once the chemical touches the skin or when eaten. This chemical has been used considerably on providing pain relief for people suffering from chronic pain due to medical conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism and even to Fibromyalgia patients. The pain involved in Fibromyalgia is one of the most debilitating symptoms sufferers experienced, which is why having means to combat pain is clearly needed. There are many researches on the effects of capsaicin in the reduction of pain felt by sufferers of arthritis and rheumatism. It is very important to understand that through the use of such chemical compounds, one can find relief from Fibromyalgia. Application of capsaicin must be done under professional supervision; as such chemical can produce burns that can be extremely painful.

Kava Kava extract

Kava Kava has been a part of traditional medicine in the Pacific. For hundreds of years the Kava Kava and its extract has been used for ceremonial purposes. The roots of this plant have been used by indigenous people to make a brew which is their social drink. According to many researchers can relieve a person from anxiety attacks, insomnia and other nervous disorders which is similar to the symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Kava is an indigenous shrub that grows in Fiji, an island in the Pacific. The roots of this plant are the part used in alternative medicine. Though the uses of Kava extract have been linked to rare cases of liver damage, its connection to such cases are still debated.

However, clinical studies have shown that Anxiety can be effectively reduced by the enzymes found in Kava extract. The effects of Kava to the person resemble strong anti-depressive drugs such as valium which induces a relaxing effect that in turn calms the mind. The feeling of anxiety is one of the main problems of Fibromyalgia, which if left uncheck can lead to serious psychological problems such as depression. Though not yet confirmed, many are claiming the effectiveness of Kava to people with Fibromyalgia. A study states that a dose of 300mg of the said extract can dramatically improve the mood of a person and increase his or her cognitive response. This is what differentiates it with other mood altering drugs like valium, which decreases cognition considerably.

Apart from the anxiety reducing properties of the Kava extract, it has also shown potential in providing treatment for insomnia and other sleep disorders which is one of the debilitating symptoms of Fibromyalgia. It has been observed that Kava extract can improve the rate of sleep a person gets and the increases the likelihood of sleep to occur even if stricken with insomnia. However due to the issue of Kava extract as one of the suspected causes of liver dysfunctions, the constant use of it to induce sleep is not advised and should always be done under professional supervision.

3. Eating vegetables

According to the Cleveland therapy associates, the intake of a pure vegetarian diet can effectively reduce the effects of Fibromyalgia and improve the well-being of the patient. Experiments on people afflicted with this syndrome are still underway, but results that shown that people that ingests considerably more vegetables and fruits on their diet tends to fare better in coping with Fibromyalgia than those that consistently ingests are more carnivorous diet. It is important to understand that through the constant supply of vitamins and minerals found in vegetable and fruits can effectively help the body cope with the syndrome and in time can treat the said illness.

In the experiments conducted on the effects of an increase intake of vegetable, people who volunteered showed considerable amount of improvement both in lifestyle, quality of life and physical and cognitive performance. The experiment also showed an exponential decrease in depressive tendencies and anxiety attacks of people with Fibromyalgia.

With the intake of adequate amounts of vegetables and fruits, the right amount of vitamins and minerals should be acquired in order to fully take advantage of its nutritional benefits. Research on the levels of Vitamin A, C and E and how it affects the well being of a person afflicted with Fibromyalgia has been considerable. In 2010, a study pioneered by the Suleyman University in Turkey showed that the regular intake of such vitamins can be an effective treatment for people suffering from such condition. The Anti-oxidant properties of these vitamins are expected to combat the degenerative effect of Fibromyalgia. It has been observed that the people with this syndrome show considerable deterioration of bodily functions due to a destructive compound called free radicals, which is effectively combated by these powerful anti-oxidants.

The inclusion of Vitamin D is also one of the main treatments advised by Fibromyalgia experts. Vitamin D can be readily obtained through fish especially herring, cod and salmon and also through exposure to sunlight. There are other more vitamins and minerals that can fight the effects of Fibromyalgia which can be obtain through the correct intake of proper types of food, especially vegetables. Through the effective inclusion of a vegetarian diet to a person suffering from Fibromyalgia, this syndrome can be easily overcome. However, a pure vegan diet will not guarantee a cure, but it will definitely provide you the relief of halting further deterioration of the body through this disease.

4. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy to treat pain and stress by the insertion of pins or needles on to specific points in the body called ”pressure points.” The effective use of such technique is expected to bolster the body’s ability to fight degeneration. Fibromyalgia is a syndrome which can be effectively treated by constant use of this ancient technique, though still under the category as alternative medicine, many scientist and researchers have found enough evidence to support claims made by Acupuncturists.

5. Massagetherapy

Massage therapy is the use of a precise method of manipulation of a person’s muscles through alternate mild and hard pressure induced by the massager’s hands or feet. This is one of the oldest forms of therapy known to man and it is still in use up to today. The relaxing effect of massage has been the main importance of such therapy, though there are claims that through precise application of pressure on specific points in the body, often called “acupressure” can also help the proper functioning of various internal organs of the body.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that affects not only the body but also the emotional state of a person. Constant pain and suffering has a detrimental effect on the psyche of a person which is why people under this kind of condition must seek medical help in order to avoid mental fatigue due to the chronic pain and suffering people afflicted with this syndrome suffer. As of today, there are effective medical methods available for sufferers that will give them relief. However, many still prefer the naturalistic or holistic approach alternative medicine provide in treating this debilitating condition. Through a good lifestyle and an effective balance diet, one can expect to effectively lessen the dreadful effects of Fibromyalgia. Even if one is afflicted by such as dreadful condition, living effective and productive lives can be a reality if only one knows how to do it.