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Widespread pain and sensitivity, extreme fatigue, brain fog…living with fibromyalgia can feel like you’re trapped in a body that’s no longer yours. 

Because fibromyalgia can be difficult to treat and manage, many people look to natural or alternative forms of pain relief therapy. Acupuncture is a popular choice, with at least one in five fibromyalgia sufferers trying acupuncture within the first two years of their diagnosis. 

It’s no surprise why so many people with fibromyalgia seek out acupuncture treatment – along with being safe and effective at pain relief, acupuncture also offers a wide range of additional health benefits that significantly improve your overall quality of life. 

If you’re tired of living with mild to severe fibromyalgia symptoms, read on to learn how acupuncture for fibromyalgia can help you feel at ease in your body again. 


What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that causes widespread pain throughout the body. Along with aches and stiffness, it also causes fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues such as memory loss and trouble focusing. Even simple movements can cause pain and discomfort which makes even everyday tasks feel like a challenge. 

Fibromyalgia symptoms can be vague, which is why this condition is so often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common ones are:

  • Widespread pain throughout the body
  • Fatigue and exhaustion
  • Sleep disturbances and insomnia
  • Stiffness and soreness in the muscles and joints
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Cognitive difficulties such as memory problems and difficulty concentrating
  • Digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Sensitivity to touch, sound, and light

Anyone can develop fibromyalgia, but it tends to be more common in women than men, and it typically shows up in adults aged 30 to 50. People with a family history of fibromyalgia, as well as those who have experienced physical or emotional trauma, are also at a higher risk of developing the condition.

 

Treating Fibromyalgia Pain With Acupuncture 

Oriental medicine views fibromyalgia as a result of imbalances in the body’s vital systems. Qi (or energy) and blood flow through specific pathways in the body to activate body processes and keep our cells, tissues, and organs functioning properly. Dr. Ko explains, “In oriental medicine, these symptoms are caused by poor circulation of Qi and Blood.” When this circulation is blocked or stagnant, it can cause pain, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. 

We cannot forget the importance of mental-emotional health when managing fibromyalgia. As Dr. Ko notes, “When you have stress or emotional imbalance your body does not circulate well. It stagnates which will make you more likely to develop fibromyalgia. So mental health and balance is very important.”

With acupuncture, we can insert thin needles into specific points along the body’s meridians to promote a healthy flow of Qi that removes these blockages and relieves various symptoms by addressing the root causes of fibromyalgia. 

Acupuncture also stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms, specifically by releasing endorphins that can help reduce pain and improve energy and mood. With regular treatment, we can also regulate the nervous system to improve sleep, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.

In addition to acupuncture, Dr. Ko may recommend lifestyle changes that can help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These may include dietary modifications, gentle exercise, meditation, and other stress-reducing practices. “You should exercise regularly to improve blood circulation and eat balanced meals. If the circulation is not great then it stagnates and disease comes,” says Dr. Ko.

 

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia: 3 Reasons to Try Acupuncture Beyond Pain Relief

Widespread and wandering pain is the most common reason why people seek acupuncture treatment for fibromyalgia. But, acupuncture also helps with many of the other related symptoms of fibromyalgia and can help you live a healthier, fuller life with fibromyalgia. 

  1. Better sleep
    Insomnia and sleep disturbances are common symptoms of fibromyalgia. Acupuncture can help improve sleep by reducing stress levels and shifting the nervous system into a deep rest state. Better quality rest also helps reduce pain, stress, exhaustion, and other fibromyalgia symptoms.
  2. Enhanced immunity
    Studies show that acupuncture effectively stimulates the immune system – a helpful “side effect” for those with fibromyalgia who are more likely to have weakened immunity due to chronic stress and inflammation. By boosting the immune system, acupuncture may help improve overall health and reduce the risk of developing other illnesses.
  3. Mood balance
    People who have fibromyalgia often struggle with high levels of stress and anxiety or irregular mood shifts. By stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, acupuncture helps the body relax and reduces the tendency to stay in “fight or flight” mode. Along with reducing stress at the moment, this shift also helps improve overall mental health and quality of life.  

 

Get Natural Fibromyalgia Relief and Enjoy Life Again

While there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, you can find relief through safe, natural, and effective ways to find relief – especially with acupuncture and a holistic Oriental medicine treatment plan. 

If fibromyalgia pain and other symptoms are keeping you from living life on your terms, Dr. Ko can help. Book your appointment today, or call us at 1-818-980-7979 to get started with your customized fibromyalgia relief treatment plan. 

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