What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points that occur in precise, localized areas throughout the body. These sensations often occur in response to stimuli, such as normal touch that wouldn’t otherwise cause the sufferer pain. Fibromyalgia is particularly known for manifesting itself in the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips, and it may also cause sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and other symptoms. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia does not cause inflammation in the muscles or any other tissue, and therefore doesn’t cause deterioration in the body like arthritis does. It is not currently known what causes fibromyalgia, though it is possible that it is caused by a genetic disorder, a result of stress, or the result of various hormonal imbalances.
How can I treat Fibromyalgia?
Traditional Chinese medicine considers fibromyalgia to be the result of weakness in the liver, kidneys, spleen, and heart, and treatment focuses on regulating one’s lifestyle, specifically as it relates to sleep and diet. Treatment of fibromyalgia relies heavily on acupuncture and herbal therapy, though the sufferer can engage in balancing activities that can help. For instance, it is beneficial to eat a lighter dinner of vegetables and whole grains with little protein, take a hot bath before bedtime, practice relaxation meditation techniques before going to bed, and go to sleep at the same time every night before 11 p.m.
What should I avoid in my lifestyle for Fibromyalgia?
Because fibromyalgia is often connected to stress, it is important to avoid stress in one’s lifestyle as much as possible. It is also important to avoid foods such as tomatoes, potatoes, dairy products, red meat, processed foods, refined sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.
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