Can Ayurveda Help with Fibromyalgia? – Natural Remedies & Treatment

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain throughout the body, often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating. It can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making daily tasks more challenging. The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, but genetic factors, infections, physical or emotional trauma may contribute to its onset. The condition is most commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 30 to 60 and primarily affects women, with an estimated prevalence of 2-4% globally.

Introduction

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread pain, stiffness and heightened sensitivity in the muscles, tendons and joints. It affects the body without causing inflammation or tissue damage. Despite the intense and often debilitating pain that patients experience, fibromyalgia does not lead to any long-term tissue harm or physical deformities. The pain usually affects both sides of the body, commonly involving areas like the neck, shoulders, arms, upper back, chest, and buttock. Additionally, there are specific “tender points” on the body that, when touched, can trigger increased pain and muscle spasms. It is not a life-threatening condition, nor does it cause deformities or progress over time.

Causes or Triggers

There is no single cause or deficiency that has been definitively proven to cause fibromyalgia. However, it is often triggered by an event that leads to physical or emotional stress. Common triggers include:

1. A serious injury, such as a car accident
2. Emotional or psychological stress, such as trauma or major life changes
3. An infection, like Epstein-Barr virus or Lyme disease
4. Physical stress from prolonged periods of intense activity
5. Lack of sleep
6. Hormonal changes, particularly in women, which can influence pain perception
7. In some cases, a previous illness or viral infection may trigger the onset of symptoms.

Pathophysiology of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition with an unclear cause, likely linked to disruption in sleep patterns and imbalance in chemicals like serotonin, substance P, and cortisol. In fibromyalgia, brain chemistry is altered, with higher levels of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate and substance P, which increase pain sensitivity. At the same time, serotonin and norepinephrine, which help control pain, are lower, and also the dopamine, which is involved in mood regulation, becomes dysregulated. These imbalances make it harder for the brain to manage pain effectively, contributing to the constant discomfort, pain, and heightened sensitivity. While non-life-threatening and non-progressive, it is often associated with anxiety, depression and stress-related symptoms.

Signs and symptoms

The signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary widely from person to person, but common ones include

1. Persistent pain throughout the body, especially in the neck, back, shoulders, and hips.
2. Sensitive spots on the body that hurt when touched.
3. Constant tiredness, even after enough sleep.
4. Difficulty sleeping or unrefreshing sleep.
5. Memory problems and trouble concentrating.
6. Stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity.
7. Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
8. Frequent tension headaches or migraines.
9. Anxiety, depression, and stress.
10. Sensations of numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or other body parts.
11. Worsening pain during menstruation in women.

Symptom severity scale (SS scale) for Fibromyalgia

The Symptom Severity (SS) scale for fibromyalgia is used to assess the severity of key symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction (often referred to as “fibro fog”), and sleep disturbances. The SS scale assigns a score between 0 and 12, with higher scores indicating more severe symptoms. Here’s how it’s typically measured:

1. Fatigue: Rated on a scale from 0 (none) to 3 (severe)
2. Cognitive difficulty (Fibro Fog): Rated on a scale from 0 (none) to 3 (severe)
3. Sleep problem: Rated on a scale from 0 (none) to 3 (severe)

SS scale

1. 0-3: Mild symptoms.
2. 4-6: Moderate symptoms.
3. 7-9: Severe symptoms.
4. 10-12: Very severe symptoms.

Coexisting conditions

Some conditions commonly co-occur with fibromyalgia

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
2. Migraines
3. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
4. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
5. Anxiety and Depression

Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

There is no specific test that confirms this condition. The diagnosis is primarily based on clinical evaluation, medical history, physical examination, and the exclusion of other possible causes for the symptoms. This includes:

1. Medical history – Review of symptoms, including widespread pain lasting for at least 3 months and absence of other causes.
2. Physical examination – identifying tender points.
3. American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria – this is the criteria for diagnosis, which involves widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for at least 3 months and a history of tender points.
4. Lab test – No specific test for fibromyalgia, but blood tests may be done to exclude other conditions.
5. Exclusion of other conditions – Ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as arthritis or autoimmune diseases.

Management of Fibromyalgia

Management of fibromyalgia focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. These approaches include :

1. Lifestyle modification

1. Restful sleep
2. Stress management
3. Meditation
4. Yoga
5. Balanced and nutrient-rich diet

2. Medications

1. Analgesics
2. Antidepressants
3. Anti-seizure drugs
4. Muscle relaxant

Physical therapies

1. Stretching and strengthening exercises
2. Acupuncture
3. Massage therapy

Ayurvedic Aspect

Fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and cognitive disturbances, aligns closely with Mamsgatavata. In Ayurveda, Mamsgatavata is a disorder in which aggravated Vata dosha affects the mamsa dhatu (muscle), leading to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness. The pathophysiology of both conditions shares similarities, as both involve an imbalance in the body’s systems leading to widespread pain and discomfort. In Ayurveda, the aggravation of Vata is believed to disrupt normal muscle functioning and is often triggered by factors like improper diet, excessive physical exertion, stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma. Vata imbalance can affect the nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or burning sensations and altered ability of the brain to process pain.

The symptoms of Mamsgatavata in ayurveda, including gurvangata (generalized stiffness), todanvata vedana (throbbing and sharp pain), severe pain as if beaten by a stick and chronic fatigue, closely resemble the symptoms experienced by those with fibromyalgia. Both conditions also show a tendency to worsen with stress, lack of rest, and other lifestyle imbalances.

Management

The treatment for Mamsgatavata primarily aims to restore balance by soothing the aggravated vata dosha, stabilizing the mamsa dhatu (muscle tissue), and alleviating the common symptoms of pain, stiffness, and fatigue. This holistic approach involves Herbs :

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – Reduces stress, fatigue, and muscle pain.
2. Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) – Helps in alleviating pain and stiffness.
3. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) – Eases muscle pain and improves circulation.
4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – Alleviates pain and inflammation.
5. Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) – Reduces joint pain and stiffness.

Panchakarma therapies

1. Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Massaging with warm medicated oils to nourish muscle and ease pain.
2. Swedana (Fomentation Therapy): Heat or steam therapy helps relieve muscle stiffness and pain.
3. Basti (Medicated Enemas): Administering medicated oils through the rectum balances Vata and reduces pain.
4. Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Used for detoxifying and balancing both Vata and Pitta, relieving pain and discomfort.

Herbal Remedies for Fibromyalgia by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a trusted, GMP-certified company that ensures all of its products are carefully crafted under expert supervision. By using only pure herbal extracts and avoiding the use of preservatives, Planet Ayurveda guarantees that its offerings are both safe and effective, minimizing the risk of side effects. For individuals dealing with fibromyalgia, the company offers a specially formulated Fibromyalgia Care Pack, designed to naturally support and alleviate the symptoms of this chronic condition.

Product Description

1. Joint Aid Plus

These capsules are formulated with natural herbs such as Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Shallaki (Boswellia Serrata), Nirgundi (Vitex Negundo), and Guggul (Commiphora mukul), among others. These herbs work together to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support the management of various bone and joint conditions. These capsules help in promoting blood purification, strengthening both bones and muscles, and providing relief from chronic pain.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice a day with warm water.

2. Boswellia Curcumin

These capsules are natural supplements to support overall health and well-being. These capsules are made with two herbs, Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). Both of these herbs are renowned for their powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These herbs are useful in balancing vata and reducing the stiffness and discomfort associated with fibromyalgia. This combination is particularly useful in restoring balance, supporting tissue repair, and ensuring long-term wellness.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice a day with warm water.

3. Shatavari Ghrit

It is a unique and potent herbal formulation where Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is the primary ingredient. Its adaptogenic properties enable it to help the body manage both physical and mental stress. This herb is considered a vitality booster, promoting overall health and well-being by nourishing the body and supporting energy levels. This formulation also includes Meda (Polygonatum cirrhifolium), Maha Meda (Polygonatum cirrhifolium), Jevaak (Microstylis muscifera), Rishyabhak (Microstylis wallichii) and several other herbs, all combined with cow’s ghee and cow’s milk. For individuals with fibromyalgia, Shatavari Ghrit offers significant relief from muscle fatigue and generalized weakness, which are often experienced in this condition.

Dosage: 1/2 teaspoon twice a day with warm water.

4. Aamvatantak  Churna

It is a natural, powerful herbal blend created to support joint health and provide relief from the ongoing pain and discomfort that comes with chronic conditions. With ingredients like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Suranjaan (Colchicum automnale), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), and Methi (Trigonella foenum-graecum), this supplement works in harmony to help r

Dosage: 1 teaspoon twice a day with warm water.

5. Stress Support Capsule

These capsules combine three powerful herbs, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Tagar (Valeriana wallichii). These herbs work together to help manage stress, anxiety, and neurological imbalances. These herbs have long been recognized for their ability to calm the mind, ease tension, and promote mental clarity, making them particularly beneficial for individuals coping with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice a day with warm water.

Conclusion

In this article, we have concluded about fibromyalgia. We discussed its various causes or triggers, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, SS scale, coexisting condition, diagnosis, management, ayurvedic aspect, and herbal remedies by Planet Ayurveda. By addressing the underlying Vata imbalance, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia and improving overall muscle function and well-being.