Most of us are familiar with everyday aches and pains in our muscles. With proper care and rest, the pain eventually goes away. But for millions of people who suffer from fibromyalgia, or FM, proper care and rest aren't enough.

Is Fibromyalgia Real?

FM is characterized by widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Other symptoms include fatigue, sleeplessness, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), headaches, and heightened sensitivity to light, touch, and odors. Although it is a chronic (long lasting) condition, it is, fortunately, neither progressive nor fatal. In the United States, it's estimated that 3 to 6 million (1 in 50) people suffer from FM. The majority of sufferers are women of child-bearing age; however, people of all ages can be affected. Young to middle-aged women, people with a family history of this condition, and people who have had rheumatic disease seem to have a higher risk of FM. For decades it has been debated whether or not FM is a true physiological condition. Skeptics point to the failure of researchers to find an exact cause or to develop a standard, objective method of diagnosis. However, owing to new technologies and genetic research, our understanding of FM is rapidly evolving. For example, a recent Georgetown University study has identified areas of the brain that are most active during pain. And links with blood flow, sleep disturbances, previous injuries, infections, and autonomic nervous system abnormalities have also been identified.

Natural Approaches to Managing FM

Since the exact causes are of FM are unknown, there is no single treatment. However, the following complementary and alternative therapies and self-management techniques may offer relief.

• Alternative therapies. Many FM sufferers report success with acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, osteopathy, and other complementary and alternative therapies.
• Cognitive behavior therapy, stress reduction, and other pain management techniques can teach you to better manage pain.
• Exercise. While it may increase your pain at first, exercise may be one of the most effective treatments for FM.
• Better sleep. Being adequately rested is essential in fighting pain and fatigue.
• Eating a healthier diet. Although no specific diet has proven to influence FM, getting proper nutrition will give you more energy and help you to cope with your symptoms more effectively.

If you're interested in learning about natural approaches to managing FM, contact your healthcare provider. Together, you can develop a plan to help you get back on the road to feeling great.