Fibromyalgia is also known as “Fibrositis” or “Fibromyositis”, it is a chronic inflammatory disorder, characterized by muscle pain, joint pain and fatigue. Further, fibromyalgia may result in memory loss, inability to concentrate and depression. Most people with fibromyalgia also have an associated sleep disorder known as alpha-EEG anomaly. There are a lot of factors that leads to the problem. Some of them include genetics, hormonal disturbances, trauma to the brain or spinal cord, surgery, rheumatic diseases, viral infections, disturbed sleep pattern, poor physical conditioning and stress. Fibromyalgia is not easy to treat as there is no definitive cure. The main goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms. The problem of fibromyalgia can be treated with the use of different home remedies. Some of the frequently used home remedies for fibromyalgia are covered below.
Yoga and Meditation
Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing, can be of great help in controlling fibromyalgia symptoms. The practice of yoga helps you release mental stress from your mind and makes you more relaxed and stable. Meditation helps the yoga practitioner stay in the present moment instead of focusing on stressful life events and painful symptoms. Practice yoga for 20 to 40 minutes daily. Do mindfulness meditation for 20 to 30 minutes daily.
Exercise
Exercise is a great natural home remedy to help with fibromyalgia. It improves circulation, relieves depression, strengthens various muscle groups, and helps with weight loss and toning the muscles. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that lifestyle physical activity (LPA) really was possible for patients and paid off in a 35% reduction in perceived pain. It is suggested to begin with mild exercise. Walking or swimming for 30 minutes produces endorphins that provide a relaxed and pleasurable state to the body.
Massage
Massage therapy helps relax your muscles and improve the range of motion in your joints, it is one of the most commonly tried for fibromyalgia. For best results, get your massage done by a massage therapist who has experience with fibromyalgia.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of treatment for chronic pain and is based on ancient Chinese medical practices. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles to various depths into strategic points on your body. They are usually left in place for 20 to 30 minutes and sometimes are further stimulated by the addition of heat or electricity. Acupuncture helps control fibromyalgia symptoms by restoring the levels of vital energy that flow through energy pathways in the body and changing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord. For best results, combine acupressure and acupuncture with meditation, exercise, massage and other therapies.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps balance the body’s pH levels, reduce oxidative stress and improve circulation. This can help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms like gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, swelling and inflammation. All you need is to consume a mixture of apple cider vinegar with water 3 to 4 times in a day to get relief. Moreover, rubbing the affected area with warm apple cider vinegar before going to bed every night can provide effective results.
Ginger
Ginger, too, has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms. Ginger also provides a soothing sensation that helps to produce a calming effect upon your body. The intake can be in the form of ginger tea or you can include ginger in your daily meals as well. For proper dosage and suitability, consult your doctor.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Some researchers suggest that omega-3 fatty acids reduce the release of cytokines in white blood cells. Cytokines are believed to produce, or at least play a role in, fibromyalgia pain. Also, Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fats that help decrease inflammation and neuropathic pain. It is therefore advisable to add food items rich in omega 3 to your diet. You can eat fatty fish like herring, sardines, anchovies, tuna or wild salmon 2 or 3 times a week. Note: Fish oil or omega-3 supplements may interfere with blood-thinning medications.
