Fibromyalgia affects over 5 million Americans. The problem is characterized by generalized pain and tenderness over a period of three or more months. While there is no remedy for this condition, acupuncture is a viable option for those seeking relief.
Acupuncture can reduce many different types of chronic pain, so it isn’t surprising that many people suffering from fibromyalgia are increasingly interested in trying it. Studies on the effectiveness of acupuncture suggest that it is likely to have a beneficial role among the range of proven methods of addressing this chronic condition.
Fibromyalgia comes with a spectrum of symptoms that vary from one person to the next. These include muscle stiffness, headaches, irritable bowel, and sensitivity to temperature, sounds, and light. The causes of fibromyalgia are not well understood, but stress, repetitive injuries, and poor sleep are among the suspected culprits. Acupuncture is used by 20% of fibromyalgia patients within 2 years after diagnosis.
How Acupuncture Can help Fibromyalgia
With acupuncture, dry needles are gently inserted into the skin causing the release of endorphins into the bloodstream. Acupuncture practitioners report that energy blocks are removed by the practice, a claim that is supported by thousands of years of tradition. The needles are left in place for between 20 and 30 minutes. Patients are sometimes further stimulated using heat or electricity. There are few risks when the treatment is performed by a trained acupuncture practitioner.
Fibromyalgia is notoriously difficult to deal with, but a combination of approaches including acupuncture, may effectively control the symptoms. Patients who are having trouble achieving relief for fibromyalgia pain may benefit from acupuncture.
Studies show acupuncture may change brain chemistry by altering the release of neurotransmitters which change the way nerve impulses in the brain relay information about pain. In this way, pain tolerance is increased. A recent study showed acupuncture decreases pain for fibromyalgia patients.
Acupuncture is a common alternative for fibromyalgia pain. People rely on it to relieve pain in the 18 pressure points associated with the disorder. Acupuncture can be effective for fibromyalgia as it may reduce pain levels and increases range of motion.