Conditions - Pain - Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia

Patrick Massey MD, PhD, Integrative Medicine, ALT-MED Medical and Physical Therapy, Elk Grove Village IL and serving the Chicago area

Fibromyalgia – the incidence of fibromyalgia seems to be increasing. This may, in part, be an increased acceptance of fibromyalgia by the traditional medical community. However, it seems that more women are simply reporting and increase in the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a relatively new medical condition that is almost unique to women (9:1 ratio to men), between 20-50 years of age, in an industrialized nations. The casuse(s) of fibromlaygia are unknown. However, fibromyalgia is associated with chronic stress, illness and physical and mental abuse. Fibromyalgia may be the result of more stress than a body can handle resulting in adrenal fatigue, hormone imbalance and subtle changes in thyroid, adrenal and brain function.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia include muscle and joint pain, profound fatigue, memory impairment, headaches, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, increased chemical sensitivity, cold symptoms, insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Some medications may be beneficial for fibromyalgia, however, side effects can limit their use. Dr. Massey has found that many patients with fibromyalgia can get significantly better by addressing underlying medical conditions and stresses. Dr. Massey published the first study (click here) using intravenous vitamins therapy (click here) for patients with medication – resistant fibromyalgia. His research showed, over 2 months, a significant improvement in pain and energy.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia are improved with:

Intravenous vitamins
Supplements
Medications
Massage
Acupuncture
Graded physical therapy exercises
Energy medicine
Diet
Improving bowel function
Stress reduction
Low dose naltrexone (click here)

Dr. Massey believes that fibromyalgia is, to a great extent, the result of stress and lifestyle and not an uncurable disease. Medications may help but they are not a long term answer.

See Dr. Massey's video on fibromyalgia and the integrative medicine approach at ALT-MED Medical and Physical Therapy, click here

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Dear Dr. Massey,

... I wanted to thank you for your encouragement, patience, and caring attitude. I almost gave up on getting better, both with you had such an optimistic view that I would get better and I most certainly did!

I do my exercises six times a week and I never felt better! I really appreciate all you have done for me and feel very blest that I was referred to your clinic! Happy holidays and sincere thanks

- Nora Blazek
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