ACUPUNCTURE FOR RELIEF OF FIBROMYALGIA PAIN

Fibromyalgia is a common, yet complex, condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Symptoms can be so severe that they interfere with patients’ ability to work and keep up with daily activities. Finding the right combination of treatments to relieve fibromyalgia symptoms can vastly improve people’s quality of life.

Acupuncture therapy in Calgary is an effective and safe treatment for patients with fibromyalgia. There is no one treatment for fibromyalgia, however, and management of this condition requires a multidimensional approach that includes patient education, behavioural therapy, exercise, and pain management.

What are the common symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia can affect anyone but is more common in women, and more likely to be diagnosed in older people. It is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and is thought to be present in anywhere from approximately 1% to 9% of the population.

A family history of fibromyalgia or other health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, or even depression/anxiety can increase the likelihood of a diagnosis. In fact, fibromyalgia often overlaps with other conditions.

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia are varied, and include:

• Musculoskeletal pain
• Fatigue
• Stiffness
• Burning or twitching feeling in the muscles
• Tender spots on the body
• Sensitivity to pain
• Muscle spasms
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Depressed mood or depressive episodes
• Memory or concentration issues
• Sleep disruption or insomnia
• Feeling of numbness or tingling in the limbs
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Digestive issues

Symptoms can come and go, or be worsened by factors such as stress, time of day, cold, or physical exertion. Keeping a diary of symptoms along with activities and other details of your routine can help pinpoint factors that trigger or exacerbate your symptoms.

How can acupuncture help relieve fibromyalgia symptoms?

Conventional medicine alone cannot treat fibromyalgia, and a combination of modalities is key to treating all facets of this diagnosis. The best treatment plan is one that effectively addresses the various symptoms that can arise in patients with this condition, which can range from mental health issues, pain and discomfort, as well as challenges with energy levels and sleep.

Acupuncture is a safe, effective treatment option that can offer patients with fibromyalgia benefits such as lower pain levels, reduced inflammation, better sleep, and improved overall health.

These benefits can improve a patient’s quality of life and make daily routine much more manageable. Treatments are low risk and remove the worry of complications or side effects that may be experienced with medications or supplements.

Is there a cure for fibromyalgia?

There is no known cure for fibromyalgia, and doctors aren’t sure what causes the condition. There’s also no test that can show your doctor that you actually have it, which means it can be more of a process of elimination of other conditions that lead to a diagnosis. Typically, people diagnosed with fibromyalgia have been experiencing pain over a long period of time and across multiple areas of the body.

A combination of treatments can be effective in relieving symptoms, which means patients can benefit from being proactive about seeking out relief. Finding the right combination of medication, exercise, and supportive treatments such as acupuncture can help relieve the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia.

How does acupuncture work with conventional medicine?

The success of acupuncture comes from its unique approach to healing. Acupuncture has a direct effect on our body systems. It can regulate hormones, produce “feel-good” hormones, and enhance opioid receptor binding to treat pain and inflammation. Acupuncture stimulates sensory nerve pathways and specialized nerve fibres to promote healing.

Think of acupuncture as a way to enhance your other care and treatment plans rather than as a replacement for them. You don’t need to choose between conventional medicine and acupuncture, and in fact, we’re happy to chat with your primary care doctors to collaborate on your care.

What can I expect from my first visit?

Your first appointment will likely be a bit longer, so please allow at least 60 - 75 minutes for this visit. We do a detailed intake and assessment to ensure we have all the information to offer support.

We’ll create a plan specific to your overall health and wellness. We’ll answer your questions, explain the details of your treatment plan, and offer support along the way.

NOTE: As always, our licensed practitioners at Action Health are your best source of up-to-date and accurate information regarding this and any other treatment plan we recommend.

Please call our front desk at (403) 243-8114 to book a consultation with one of our acupuncturists to see if acupuncture treatment is appropriate for you.