An estimated 3 to 6% of Americans have fibromyalgia syndrome, a complex condition that often results in fatigue, cognitive or memory impairment, jaw pain, chronic headaches and sleep disorders. The National Fibromyalgia Association reports that it can take a patient up to four years to be diagnosed with this condition, and that most people experience widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for about three months.

 

Fortunately, there are a number of natural therapies available for fibromyalgia. From chiropractic therapy to homeopathic treatments, here are some alternative health treatments available for people diagnosed with fibromyalgia:

Chiropractic therapy can provide some relief for many fibromyalgia patients, and is among the highly ranked therapeutic approaches for fibromyalgia patients, according to the Massachusetts Chiropractic Society. Chiropractic treatment for fibromyalgia may include a combination of electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and massage therapy to encourage deep muscle relaxation and promote healing. The doctor of chiropractic will be able to target certain areas of the body that are especially tender, and will also correct subluxations of the spine that may be triggering some of the stress and pain in the muscles and joints.

Dietary supplements and making changes to the diet are other ways to strengthen the immune system and ward off pain when coping with the symptoms of fibromyalgia. The Massachusetts Chiropractic Society reports that eating more omega-3 fatty acids and reducing intake of saturated fats can reduce the effects of fibromyalgia. Adding more fish, flax seed, walnut oils and other healthy fats can help improve brain function and correct any nervous system disorders. Other nutritional changes include reducing caffeine intake, eating foods that keep blood sugar levels stable, and limiting intake of red meats. It is also important to address any allergies or nutritional deficiencies, as these can cause a number of fibromyalgia-like symptoms.

Negative emotions, stress and anxiety may be triggering a number of symptoms of fibromyalgia. For example, too much stress and unresolved emotional conflict may be causing sleeping problems, migraine headaches, excessive fatigue, morning stiffness and irritable bowels. A professional specializing in cognitive therapy can help the patient work through negative emotions, reframe their attitude and gain perspective on their life so that stress and anxiety are kept to a minimum.

 

Correct diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be tricky, so it may be necessary to get the opinion of more than one health care provider to ensure that the problems the patient is experiencing are not a result of hypothyroidism, anemia, hormonal imbalance or rheumatic diseases. These conditions often produce fibromyalgia-like symptoms, so a comprehensive clinical evaluation is needed to identify the root causes of pain.

 

If you or a loved one is suffering from fibromyalgia, you can work with a chiropractor in your area to discuss treatment options. In addition to chiropractic therapy, a chiropractor may recommend nutritional supplements, dietary changes, and refer you to a professional who can help you work through a cognitive therapy treatment program.