Natural Treatments for Fibromyalgia
Many of the topics we have discussed regarding fibromyalgia have covered alternative treatment options. It is such a difficult disorder to diagnose – and often even more difficult to treat. Because doctors and researchers do not know what causes fibromyalgia and have no full proof cure, many individuals find themselves having to try various options until they find one that works best, even if only for a limited period of time. As with most medications, the drugs used to ease the pain of fibromyalgia may only be effective for a limited period of time before the dosage needs to be increased or different drugs need to be mixed. Additionally, the pain can be so severe that people cannot wait for the drugs to take effect. Sometimes this pain causes them to have to resign from work and file for Social Security Disability benefits because no amount of medication can help them to adequately complete their job tasks. Recently, Natural News reported on alternative treatment options for fibromyalgia that may allow people to manage this disorder more effectively, and certainly more naturally.
One of the suggestions offered is to take different supplements to treat fibromyalgia, such as colloidal silver, digestive enzymes, and magnesium. Each of these, according to the article, has been shown to have a positive effect on the treatment of the pain disorder. Specifically, the author notes that in some medical circles, fibromyalgia has been linked to a deficiency of magnesium. The next suggestion is to try to change the course of the chronic condition by changing your diet. It is amazing how our diet can influence how our body responds to various diseases and health conditions. The article first suggests increasing your intake of apples or apple juice, as they contain a particular type of naturally occurring acid that eases inflammation and pain. Then, it is suggested to try to limit the consumption of whole grains, due to inflammation properties, and to increase the amount of essential fatty acids and omega-3s. Finally, the article advises fibromyalgia sufferers to engage in two activities that we have previously discussed, acupuncture and exercise.
It is exciting to think of managing a naturally occurring medical disorder with natural treatments. It is important, however, to discuss any alternative treatments with your doctor, especially if you are going to combine them with traditional therapies, such as drug management. Additionally, make sure to fully educate yourself about any potential side effects and how these alternative treatments may impact your daily life.
Filed under Fibromyalgia - alternative treatment by on Mar 19th, 2010. Comment.
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Comments on Natural Treatments for Fibromyalgia
Sherrie Sisk @ 7:59 am
I don’t know … maybe I’ve been at this too long but I have yet to see a single so-called “natural” treatment for fibromyalgia that’s anywhere close to being as effective as medication.
Acupuncture made my flares MUCH worse – I tried to stick it out for a month but there was no way I could bear that. Others have had good luck with it – but then again, there was a recent survey study that found acupuncture results weren’t consistent enough to support its use as a recommended treatment for fibromyalgia.
So … everything about fibro treatment options, in my book, ought to be flagged with the caveat “your mileage may vary wildly”!