How to Support Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, aka fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a long-term chronic condition that can affect anyone, although women are more susceptible to it. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but some studies suggest that it could be caused by chemical brain imbalances that alter pain perception in the body.

Fibromyalgia causes chronic pain especially in specific points throughout the body. It is difficult to diagnose because there are no tests to distinguish FMS. Patients often have a physical exam done to see if the common pain points are more sensitive than other parts of the body. Other than that, patients must also meet some of the symptoms in order to be diagnosed. Some symptoms include depression, trouble sleeping, headaches, digestive issues, joint/muscle tenderness, extreme fatigue, concentration/memory issues, aka fibro-fog, etc.

One of the interesting things about fibromyalgia is its association with depression. One of the main symptoms of FMS is depression. Scientists and doctors are unsure what the causal or effectual link is between the two. There are two theories: the depression causes the hypersensitivity to pain, or the hypersensitivity to pain causes the depression. The pain from FMS can be so severe that the brain habituates the sensation which means unless you touch the tender areas, you don’t actively feel it, but the brain still perceives the pain which can be highly exhausting.

Unfortunately, FMS has no cure, but it can be managed and treated. The main treatment plan has to do with dulling any pain. Because of the prominent link with depression, doctors often prescribe anti-depressants which help manage the pain and enhance mood. Muscle relaxants are also another option for symptom management. Often times, the pain can be so intense that sleeping becomes difficult. Muscle relaxants help ensure a deep sleep which is especially important for FMS survivors. As with stand-alone depression, counselling and different forms of therapy can also be helpful. However, some of the most important options for symptom management includes lifestyle changes.

Like with most conditions that cause chronic pain, inflammation is a key component in pain. Eating a healthy whole food plant-based diet can actually heavily decrease inflammation and increase mobility. High fiber foods which are found in a whole food plant-based diet also positively affect the gut which can also prevent/decrease depressive symptoms and prevent the release of inflammatory immune cells. Exercise is another crucial component for targeting fibromyalgia. FMS patients shouldn’t do high impact exercises like HIIT workouts or CrossFit, but more so yoga, spinning, dancing, swimming, and other low impact activities.

Another new symptom management option that has become popular in the past 2 years is cannabidiol (CBD). CBD’s main benefit is the lowering of inflammation. FMS involves hyperinflammation throughout the body which may be reduced by consuming CBD. In these cases, it is important to use high concentrations of CBD consistently and through many methods. For example, a person suffering from FMS should be taking one of our 1000, 2000, or 3000mg CBD oil tinctures on a daily basis. A dropper full in the morning placed under the tongue is the most ideal way to consume CBD in these cases. It is also wise to pair consumable methods with topicals as well. Alongside the CBD oil tincture, you could apply any of our CBD topical creams or roll-ons on any problem areas that are acting up. This may greatly improve pain levels and inflammation.