Even though an estimated 3-6 percent of the American population (mostly women) have fibromyalgia, the National Fibromyalgia Association reports that it is difficult even to get a diagnosis. It can take up to four years for proper diagnosis, and much of the population still does not really understand what fibromyalgia is or how it should be treated.

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Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Patients are diagnosed with fibromyalgia if they experience pain in all four body quadrants (for at least three months), accompanied by tenderness in at least eleven points on the body. These pain points typically cluster in the following areas: the neck, shoulders, chest, hips, knees and elbows.

Some fibromyalgia patients experience pain in fewer than 11 regions, but have the following symptoms:

• Widespread pain
• Fatigue
• Sleep issues (insomnia, inability to fall or stay asleep)
• Feeling faint, dizzy or light-headed
• Cognitive difficulties
• Muscular discomfort after exercise
• Generalized malaise
• Pain in the jaw
• Stiffness (especially first thing in the morning)
• Stomach upset
• Alternating numbness and tingling
• Sensitivity to chemicals

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A Diagnosis You Can Trust

In order to properly treat fibromyalgia, it’s important to check out other possible causes of your symptoms. You will want to ask for an evaluation that includes:

• Anemia
• Thyroid imbalances
• Lyme’s disease
• Rheumatic diseases
• Hormone balance issues
• Allergies
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Muscle or joint-related conditions

Since this is such a difficult condition to diagnose, you will want to get second opinions and talk to doctors who provide holistic health care. Holistic doctors evaluate your health from all angles, taking into consideration factors such as hereditary, nutrition, lifestyle, environmental influences, etc.

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Natural Fibromyalgia Treatment Options

Conventional doctors typically prescribe prednisone, anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, sleep medications and muscle relaxants. However, there are natural alternatives to the prescription drugs (most of which have significant side effects and/or are addictive).

Try the following natural fibromyalgia treatment options:

• Take 300-600 mg of magnesium, a B-complex supplement and malic acid daily
• Limit consumption of red meat and increase consumption of omega-3 fatty acids (eggs, fish, flax seed, walnut oils)
• Limit caffeine consumption and adopt good sleep habits
• Walk 20 minutes a day to manage stress and fight depression
• Engage in gentle exercise (yoga, tai chi)
• Massage therapy has been proven to be effective in relieving symptoms
• Pursue gentle chiropractic adjustments delivered by a chiropractor knowledgeable about fibromyalgia
• Ask about electro-acupuncture for pain relief and management of stress, depression and anxiety

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Looking for a Huntersville Chiropractor for Fibromyalgia Treatments?

Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture can help!

We offer a comprehensive fibromyalgia treatment plan that incorporates acupuncture, chiropractic care and lifestyle/home care recommendations. Dr. Doyle is experienced in working with patients with fibromyalgia and can answer questions and offer practical solutions that deliver tangible results.

Call 704-947-7272 to learn about natural fibromyalgia treatment options. We accept most insurance plans.