Can Acupuncture Treat My Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia affects from one to two percent of the population with most of those being females. Many sufferers of fibromyalgia are unable to work due to complications from the disease. Studies have shown that fibromyalgia is related to central nervous system dysfunctions, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis abnormalities, and nervous system dysfunctions to name a few. Some relief for fibromyalgia patients has been found in acupuncture treatments.
Fibromyalgia can cause extreme fatigue along with widespread chronic pain. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can be used to treat these symptoms. Rather than seeking physical therapy or a handful of medications, TCM can address your symptoms individually and get you the relief you need.
How Does Acupuncture Work for Fibromyalgia?
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of conditions. A certified practitioner at White Crane Clinic will perform the procedure when it is believed your Qi is blocked. Qi is the life force within all of us. When your Qi becomes blocked, you will get sick o feel pain in your body. Blocked Qi explains numerous symptoms, such as not being able to tie your shoes, or take a walk. An acupuncture treatment will relieve those symptoms as it helps support a more effective flow of your Qi through those painful areas.
What is a Typical Acupuncture Treatment for Fibromyalgia?
During an acupuncture treatment, your session typically starts out with a meeting between yourself and your acupuncturist. The first session consists of discussing your medical history and explaining your symptoms.
Depending on the acupuncturist’s preference, you might remain fully clothed, or you may be given a gown to wear during your session. Lying on a treatment table, your acupuncturist will begin inserting sterilized, hair-thin needles to unblock your Qi and blood flow. Some treatments use electrical stimulation, depending on the clinic and acupuncturist’s discretion. Small amounts of electricity can reduce your pain and other symptoms.
Some acupuncturists treat their patients with an herb called moxibustion. This herb can help to stimulate circulation which is a problem with fibromyalgia. Moxibustion creates a smoother flow of your blood and Qi.
What to Expect After Acupuncture Treatment for Fibromyalgia
You will be asked about any changes you feel after your acupuncture treatment is completed. The acupuncturist will want to know if your pain levels are any less. Typically, it requires more than one acupuncture treatment to notice a significant change.
After your acupuncture treatments, you should notice an improvement in your pain. Acupuncture can trigger your endorphins, which are your ‘feel-good’ hormones that are released by your brain. These hormones are natural painkillers and will help decrease pain perception.
Acupuncture works with your body and will help it to heal without side effects and is minimally invasive. Studies show this form of treatment stimulates your nerve areas as well as your immune system. It will provide you circulatory function with pain relief through the release of your body’s natural chemicals and pain modulators.
Where to Find Acupuncture Treatments for Fibromyalgia
The White Crane Clinic’s mission is to help all patients gain well-being and improved health. Our trained physicians are ready to help you find the best treatment plan to fight your fibromyalgia pain. With our extensive acupuncture services, such as Japanese (no needles), Korean, and TCM, you are sure to find the best possible alternative and holistic healthcare treatments.
Board-certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine and the owner of White Crane Clinic in Tarpon Springs, Florida. With over a decade of clinical experience, she specializes in integrative care that blends acupuncture, herbal medicine, and regenerative therapies for whole-body wellness.
