How Might A Naturopath Treat Fibromyalgia?
Posted on: 23 May 2023
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Fibromyalgia is a very complex condition. Some people respond well to prescription medications intended to manage its symptoms, and others do not. The depression, pain, stiffness, and brain fog often associated with fibromyalgia can be really tough to live with, and you may start to feel a letdown if conventional treatments are not working for you. But don't lose hope! Many patients find that seeing a naturopathic physician is the turning point for their fibromyalgia. Naturopaths take a natural, holistic approach to medical care, and this seems to work well for systemic, chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. So, what treatments might a naturopath recommend for your fibro? Take a look.
Elimination Diets
Sometimes, certain foods may trigger fibromyalgia treatments. It can be tough to know whether foods are a trigger for you until you try an elimination diet. This is something a naturopath can guide you through. They'll have you cut out a long list of potential food triggers from your diet. Then, you will add the foods back in, one at a time, and see whether you experience a flare-up after one of them. If a certain food causes a flare-up, then you will know to avoid that food, which will help minimize your fibro symptoms, going forward.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that is common in Eastern medicine and is practiced or recommended by many naturopaths. By placing tiny needles in the skin, an acupuncturist can change the flow of energy through your body. This can lead to reduced inflammation and pain, along with less muscle stiffness and better sleep. Fibro patients often notice some improvement from one acupuncture treatment, but even more profound relief from routine treatments.
Herbal Remedies
Most naturopaths know a lot about herbal medicine and routinely recommend herbs for chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. A few herbs that your naturopath may recommend include:
- Valerian root, which is known to support healthy sleep. Good sleep can reduce other fibro symptoms.
- St. John's wort, which can help reduce mood-related symptoms like depression and anxiety.
- Gotu kola, an herb that promotes mental clarity, helps fight fatigue and can reduce fevers and inflammation.
Your naturopath may have you try each of these herbs for a few weeks, see which one offers the most relief, and then stick with that remedy.
If you do not get relief from prescription fibromyalgia medications, see a naturopath in your area. Often, a more holistic approach works well.