Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Help Fibromyalgia?

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and does it Help Fibromyalgia?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It’s most commonly used to treat depression, but research shows it may also help with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.

How It Works

• A device with an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp.

• It sends magnetic pulses into specific areas of your brain—usually the motor cortex or prefrontal cortex.

• These pulses activate neurons and can help regulate brain activity linked to pain perception, mood, and fatigue.

A magnetic coil is positioned on the patient's head. IMAGE: Baburov

Types of TMS

• Repetitive TMS (rTMS): Delivers pulses in rapid succession. This is the most studied form for fibromyalgia.

• Deep TMS: Reaches deeper brain structures and is used for more complex conditions.

For Fibromyalgia

Studies suggest rTMS may:

• Reduce pain intensity

• Improve quality of life

• Ease fatigue, anxiety, and depression

• Offer relief lasting weeks after treatment

It’s typically done in a clinic, with sessions lasting around 30–40 minutes, several times a week for a few weeks.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), specifically repetitive TMS (rTMS), is emerging as a promising non-invasive therapy for fibromyalgia. Using magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted areas of the brain, rTMS may help modulate pain perception and improve mood—two major challenges for people living with fibromyalgia.

New Research:

rTMS Shows Pain Relief and Quality of Life Improvements

A 2022 study published by the National Institutes of Health found that rTMS significantly relieved pain and enhanced quality of life in fibromyalgia patients. This supports growing clinical interest in using brain stimulation to manage chronic pain conditions.

More Than Just Pain Relief:

rTMS Reduces Anxiety, Depression, and Fatigue

A 2025 study published in SpringerOpen reported that rTMS not only reduced pain, but also lowered anxiety, depression, and fatigue levels in fibromyalgia patients. These findings suggest that rTMS may offer a more holistic benefit, targeting both physical and emotional symptoms.

Functional Gains:

Improved Function and Lasting Effects

According to Neuralia TMS, a 2018 study in the Journal of Pain Research showed that TMS effectively reduced pain and improved function in people with fibromyalgia. Another study published on ScienceDirect in 2025 found that pain relief from rTMS lasted up to 8 weeks post-treatment, with an excellent effect size.

Real-World Therapy:

What Clinics Are Saying

Smart TMS reports that studies consistently show rTMS relieves pain and enhances quality of life for fibromyalgia patients. Beyond pain relief, TMS also appears to reduce fatigue and improve emotional well-being.

So, Does TMS Help?

The evidence is stacking up: rTMS may be a powerful tool in the fibromyalgia treatment arsenal. It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and shows promise in reducing pain, fatigue, and mood-related symptoms. While more large-scale trials are needed, current research suggests that TMS could offer meaningful relief for many fibro patients.

Have you tried TMS therapy? Did it help your fibromyalgia symptoms? Share your experience below—we’d love to hear from real people living with fibro.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and I am not recommending any specific treatment. I have not personally tried these therapies. This article is for informational purposes only and is based on published research. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Different approaches work for different people, and what helps one person may not help another.

Sources: 

Oxford Academic  –rTMS for Fibromyalgia

SpringerOpen 

Neuralia TMS 

Smart TMS 

Neurotherapeutics

You might also like to read:

• 36 things to try when you have Fibromyalgia
• My experiences with starting hydrotherapy for fibromyalgia
• Keeping my house clean when chronically ill

Things to Try When You Have Fibromyalgia

36 things to try when you have Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects every part of life—pain, fatigue, sleep, mood, and cognition. While there’s no universal fix, there are many strategies that can help you feel better, function more fully, and reclaim your energy. Here’s a comprehensive list of things to try, backed by research and real-life experience.

1. D-Ribose

This naturally occurring sugar helps fuel your cells. Studies by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum showed energy boosts of 45–61% in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue patients. Available as a supplement, many find it improves stamina and mental clarity.

2. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)

PEA is a fatty acid amide that supports the endocannabinoid system and may reduce pain and inflammation. It’s available over the counter and has shown promise in chronic pain conditions including fibromyalgia.

3. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

Originally used to treat addiction, LDN at low doses may help regulate the immune system and reduce pain sensitivity. Many fibro patients report improved sleep and reduced flare-ups.

4. Myofascial Massage

This gentle, sustained-pressure technique targets connective tissue and muscle knots. It can relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce tension without triggering post-massage soreness.

5. Reflexology

By stimulating pressure points on the feet, reflexology may help balance the nervous system and reduce pain perception. It’s a relaxing, non-invasive therapy worth trying.

6. Allergy Testing

Hidden food sensitivities or environmental allergies can exacerbate fibro symptoms. Identifying and eliminating triggers may reduce inflammation and fatigue.

7. Hydrotherapy

Moving in warm water can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and ease pain.

8. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. Some studies suggest it may reduce fibro pain and improve cognitive function by enhancing tissue oxygenation.

 9. Aerobic Exercise

Gentle aerobic activity (walking, swimming, cycling) 2–3 times a week can improve pain, fatigue, and mood. Start slow, increase gradually, and expect some short-term discomfort before long-term gains.

10. Strength Training

Light resistance training can help combat fatigue and improve muscle tone. Combine with endurance exercises for best results.

11. Mindfulness & Meditation

Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve pain tolerance, and calm the nervous system. Even 10 minutes a day can make a difference.

12. Exergaming

Video games that involve movement—like Wii Fit or VR fitness—can be a fun, low-impact way to stay active and engaged.

13. Whole-Body Vibration

Using vibration platforms alongside traditional exercise may reduce fatigue and improve physical function. See trial results here. 

14. Balneotherapy

Soaking in mineral-rich baths—like Epsom salts or hot springs—can soothe pain and boost energy.

15. Sleep Hygiene

Better sleep = better everything. Stick to a routine, avoid stimulants before bed, and create a calming sleep environment.

16. Raw Vegetarian Diet

A mostly raw plant-based diet may help reduce fatigue and inflammation. Think fresh veggies, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

17. TENS Units

These portable devices deliver electrical pulses to relieve pain and fatigue. Affordable and widely used.

18. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Noninvasive brain stimulation that may reduce fatigue and improve mood. Read the research about TMS. 

19. Electroconvulsive Therapy

Though controversial, ECT has helped some patients with severe fatigue and depression.

20. Cortical Electrostimulation

Another brain-based therapy showing moderate improvement in fatigue.

21. Sensory Motor Rhythm Treatment

A neurofeedback technique that helps regulate brain activity and reduce fatigue.

22. Low-Energy Laser Therapy

Mixed results for fatigue, but promising for pain relief.

23. Pulsed Ultrasound & Interferential Current

These therapies may help with morning fatigue and muscle stiffness.

24–30. Medications That May Help

Some prescription drugs have shown promise in reducing fatigue and improving quality of life:

• Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

• Milnacipran (Savella)

• Fluoxetine (Prozac)

• GHB/Sodium Oxybate (Xyrem)

• Pramipexole (Mirapex)

• Quetiapine (Seroquel)

• Raloxifene (Evista)

31. Acetyl L-Carnitine

An amino acid supplement that may improve mental clarity and energy.

32. Pacing & Planning

Use the “energy envelope” approach—plan your day around your energy levels to avoid crashes. Prioritize, delegate, and rest before you’re exhausted. Find out more about pacing here.

33. Multidisciplinary Care

Work with a team—rheumatologists, physiotherapists, psychologists—to address all aspects of fibromyalgia. A holistic approach often yields better results.

34. Yoga

Gentle yoga sequences tailored for chronic illness can ease pain, fatigue, and depression. It’s a calming way to reconnect with your body.

35. Acupuncture

A course of acupuncture treatment has been proven many times to significantly help reduce the pain of fibromyalgia. 

36. The Guaifenesin Protocol for fibromyalgia

It is a strict dietary restriction of salicylates and the use of guaifenesin, an expectorant medication. Some people say this cuts their fibromyalgia pain a lot. 

What’s your go-to strategy for managing fibromyalgia fatigue? Is it on the list? Share your tips in the comments and help others find relief!

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and I am not recommending any specific treatment. I have personally only tried some of these therapies. This article is for informational purposes only and is based on published research. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Different approaches work for different people, and what helps one person may not help another.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through them—at no extra cost to you. I only share products I think might be useful or interesting, but please do your own research before making a purchase. Thanks for supporting the site!

The Guaifenesin Protocol for fibromyalgia

Let’s break down the Guaifenesin Protocol for fibromyalgia in a simple way.

This is an idea from Dr. R. Paul St. Amand, who came up with it in the '90s. He thinks fibromyalgia happens because your body builds up too much phosphate, messing with your energy levels. His fix? Take guaifenesin, that stuff in Mucinex that helps clear mucus when you’re sick. The idea is it flushes out those phosphates to ease your symptoms. Here’s the deal in plain terms:

1. Taking Guaifenesin: You start with a small dose, like 300 mg twice a day, and tweak it based on how you feel. At first, your symptoms might get worse—that’s supposedly a sign it’s working, clearing out the bad stuff.

2. Dodging Salicylates: You have to  avoid salicylates, which are in things like aspirin, some meds, and even stuff like tea,and many foods including avocado, mint toothpaste, or lotions with plant oils. They can block guaifenesin from doing its thing, so you’ll need to check labels on everything—meds, soaps, cosmetics, you name it.

3. Low-Carb Diet (If Needed): If you’ve got blood sugar dips (pretty common with fibromyalgia), you might need to cut carbs to keep things steady.

Does It Work?

- What Fans Say: Some people swear by it, saying it cuts their pain and fatigue big time. Online reviews (like on Drugs.com) give it high marks, averaging 8.5/10 from over 100 people.

- The Science Part: There’s not much proof it works. A study from 1996 tested it on 40 women and found no real difference after a year. Another study in 2017 hinted it might help with back pain, but not fibromyalgia specifically. Most doctors aren’t sold on it because there’s no solid research backing it up.

- What’s Out There: The FDA has not okayed guaifenesin for fibromyalgia, and most experts stick to proven stuff like meds (like duloxetine or pregabalin) or therapies.

What to Know

- How to Do It: You’ll need to be super strict, especially with avoiding salicylates, which can be a pain because besides avoiding all salicylate foods you need to swap out your shampoo, soaps, moisturizers and makeup. You track symptoms with something called “body mapping” to see if it’s helping.

- Side Effects: Guaifenesin is usually safe—maybe some nausea or dizziness at worst. You might feel crappier at first, which they say is normal.

- Heads-Up: It’s a lot of work to avoid salicylates, (believe me I have tried due to allergy reasons) and it can hit your wallet replacing products. Plus, if it doesn’t work, those symptom flares can be rough.

My Two Cents

Talk to your doc first, especially one who knows this protocol. It’s not a mainstream fix, and there’s way more evidence for other treatments like meds or physical therapy. If you wanna try it, grab plain guaifenesin (like Mucinex, not the combo stuff) and be ready for some lifestyle changes. Just know it’s a bit of a gamble since the science isn’t there yet.

Is Guaifenesin Still Popular? - The Guaifenesin Protocol is still used by some folks with fibromyalgia, but it’s not super common. It’s more of a niche thing that’s kept alive by a small but dedicated group of believers, mostly based on Dr. R. Paul St. Amand’s work and patient success stories. You’ll find people discussing it on forums, blogs, and sites like Drugs.com, where recent reviews (some from 2024-2025) still give it high ratings, like 8.5/10 from over 100 users, saying it helps with pain and fatigue. There are also websites like guaifenesinprotocol.com and fibromyalgiatreatment.com pushing it, with active communities sharing tips on avoiding salicylates and finding the right dose.

That said, it’s not mainstream. Most doctors and fibromyalgia experts don’t recommend it because there’s still no solid scientific evidence backing it up—just one 1996 study that showed no real benefit and a lack of follow-up research. The medical community leans toward FDA-approved treatments like duloxetine or pregabalin, which have stronger proof. You might still see it pop up in alternative health circles or among patients frustrated with standard options, but it’s definitely not a go-to treatment in 2025. If you’re thinking about it, check with your doctor first, as it’s a commitment and not a proven fix.

This is an update from a previous post of mine in 2009 which you can read here. 

Read more about Dr Amand's book. 

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and I am not recommending any specific treatment. I have not personally tried this therapy. This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Different approaches work for different people, and what helps one person may not help another.

How to use Tiger Balm correctly for fibromyalgia pain (and other pain)

🐯  Using Tiger Balm correctly helps ensure you get the maximum relief from pain while minimizing any skin irritation or side effects. 

Here's a quick, clear guide:

🧴 How to Use Tiger Balm

1. Choose the Right Type

• White Tiger Balm: Cooling, better for headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, and general aches.

• Red Tiger Balm: Warming, better for muscle pain, joint pain, and backaches.

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✅ Application Instructions

1. Clean the Area
   Wash and dry the skin where you’ll apply it.

2. Take a Small Amount
   Scoop a pea-sized amount with your finger or a cotton swab.

3. Rub It In
   Gently massage into the affected area using circular motions for 1–2 minutes until absorbed.

4. Wash Hands Thoroughly
   Especially important to avoid accidental contact with eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas.

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💡 Where to Apply (Common Uses)

Condition	Where to Apply	Notes
Headache	Temples, forehead, back of neck	Avoid eyes; use White Balm
Muscle/joint pain	Affected muscle or joint area	Use Red Balm for deeper pain
Back pain	Lower or upper back area	Massage deeply
Congestion	Chest or under nose (lightly)	Use White Balm only

⚠️ Precautions

• Do not apply to broken, irritated, or sensitive skin

• Avoid sun exposure after applying Red Balm (it can irritate skin)

• Use up to 3–4 times per day

• Not for children under 2

• Avoid bandaging tightly over the balm unless advised

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🕒 When to Expect Results

• You should feel cooling or warming sensations within minutes.

• Pain relief typically lasts a few hours.

• For chronic pain, consistent use over several days may help more.

You may be interested in these articles:

• Tiger balm and other topical pain relief
• Natural Treatments for Fibromyalgia
• Traditional Chinese Medicine and Fibromyalgia

Epsom salt baths for fibromyalgia pain

 Soak on it

More and more research indicates that Fibromyalgia patients suffer from magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is extremely important to many functions in the body, and a deficiency can cause several of the symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia. There are great benefits in taking an Epsom salt bath, rich in hydrated magnesium sulfate, which is easily absorbed through the skin.

Dry skin brushing

This article is about the ancient technique of skin brushing, how to do it and one of it's little know benefits. 

My experience with Dandelion Coffee to help digestive issues

In this series I am investigating what foods can help heal our body or even just help reduce some of the challenges of chronic illness. As well as fibromyalgia I am diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, including Sjogren's syndrome.

Since my early 20's I have been interested in the healing power of what we eat. I studied, and have a diploma in, herbal medicine. 

Today I am writing about Dandelion Coffee and it's healing powers as it was brought to my attention in my facebook group that it is not well known. Considering it's amazing benefits and how it has helped me I thought I should highlight it here. 

DANDELION THE HERB
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) is a Digestive Bitter Herb.

In traditional herbal medicine, dandelion root has long been used to treat stomach and liver conditions due to its purported ability to “detoxify” the blood and be a general tonic.

Element profile of Dandelion:  

Na 740  K 180  Li 78  Fe 19.5  Ca 106  Mg 6.4   Zn 2.32

It is rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, and B, inositol, lecithin, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, sodium, calcium, silicon, copper, phosphorus, zinc, and manganese.

Among vegetables, dandelion is one of the richest source of beta-carotene (11,000 µg/100 g leaves, same as in carrots), from which vitamin A originates.

In the past few years, dandelion has demonstrated health benefits including anti-rheumatic, anti-carcinogenic, diuretic, laxative, hypoglycemic, and chloretic effects.

Besides its use as a coffee substitute, the leaf extracts are known to have diuretic properties, which have now been confirmed scientifically, and be effective against obesity and cardiovascular disease.

Dandelion is on the FDA's list of safe foods.

Dandelion restores potassium rather than depleting it like conventional diuretics.

It promotes healthy digestive functioning.

It reduces pre-menstrual bloating caused by an excess of fluid build-up.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) is a Digestive Bitter Herb.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF DANDELION

Dandelion is available in the of coffee, tea, capsules, and tablets. In Australia, where I live, it is available from health stores and larger supermarkets. 

Dandelion coffee is made from the roasted roots and is known as a liver tonic and detoxifier. 

Dandelion tea is made from dried leaves and is known as a diuretic that helps the body excrete excess fluid through urination.

MY EXPERIENCE WITH DANDELION
I use to drink Dandelion root coffee many years ago as a university student. I enjoyed it and understood the many benefits due to having studied herbalism. 

I don't know why I stopped drinking it... probably due to the cost as I was not working and also I did not have any illnesses. 

I have remembered it recently when, added to my autoimmune conditions and fibromyalgia, I started having new digestive symptoms. I was rushing to the ER around every 3 months with severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and swollen belly. 

I underwent many tests including a colonoscopy and endoscopy and ultrasound of the stomach. It was discovered that I had gallstones and an enlarged liver. This was a shock to me as I have a fairly healthy diet with lots of vegetables, wholegrains and fruit. My big 'treat' was my daily coffee. 

I drink my dandelion coffee with soy milk or skim milk

I remembered dandelion coffee and so I replaced my coffee intake over 3 days with dandelion coffee. At first replacing one of my 2 daily coffees with dandelion coffee and them both. I was amazed that it was a fairly easy transition.

I love the taste of dandelion coffee and I am reaping the benefits:

• my daily morning nausea has disappeared completely.
• no visits to the ER since October with excruciating stomach pain.
• less daily bloating in my fingers and toes that use to prevent me from making a fist every night.

MY RECOMMENDED DANDELION COFFEE

Symingtons Instant Dandelion Coffee

Are you thinking of trying dandelion coffee after reading this article? Are you already drinking it and appreciate it's wonderful benefit? I would love to hear from you in the comments below.

SUMMARY OF THE BENEFITS OF DANDELION COFFEE

Dandelion coffee, made from roasted dandelion roots, is a caffeine-free herbal drink often used as a coffee substitute. It offers several potential health benefits:

1. Liver Support

• Dandelion root is known for its liver-detoxifying properties. It may help stimulate bile production, which supports digestion and liver function.

2. Digestive Aid

• Acts as a mild diuretic and laxative, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

• Helps relieve bloating and indigestion.

3. Antioxidant Properties

• Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation.

4. Caffeine-Free Energy Boost

• Offers a similar taste and experience to coffee without the caffeine, which can be beneficial for people who are sensitive to stimulants or want to reduce their intake.

5. May Support Blood Sugar Control

• Some studies suggest dandelion root may help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, though more research is needed.

6. Rich in Nutrients

• Contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, C, K, calcium, and iron, contributing to overall health.

7. Supports Kidney Function

• As a natural diuretic, it can help the body eliminate excess fluid, potentially benefiting kidney health and reducing water retention.

8. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

• May help reduce systemic inflammation, which is linked to many chronic conditions.

SOURCES FOR THIS ARTICLE

The Physiological Effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale) in Type 2 Diabetes. Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Tage-Hansens Gade 2, DK-8000 C, Denmark, 2016.

Elemental profile of 24 common medicinal plants of Pakistan and its direct link with traditional uses. Institute of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Pakistan. Institute of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Pakistan, 2011.

The Diuretic Effect in Human Subjects of an Extract of Taraxacum officinale Folium over a Single Day

Department of Herbal Medicine, Tai Sophia Institute, Laurel, MD.

2Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA.

3National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.

4

Department of Herbal Medicine, Tai Sophia Institute, Laurel, MD.

2Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA.

3National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.

4

Department of Herbal Medicine, Tai Sophia Institute, Laurel, MD.

2Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA.

3National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.

4

Department of Herbal Medicine, Tai Sophia Institute, Laurel, MD.

2Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA.

3National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.

4

6 Foods That Could Be Tied to Fibromyalgia Pain: they are not what you expect

We did a survey at FIBRO CONNECT and found that over 30 people had food triggers that made their fibromyalgia symptoms worse. These included gluten, dairy, coffee, sugar and chocolate.

The standard treatment for fibromyalgia usually doesn’t involve dietary changes, yet some patients have found that certain types of food exacerbate their sensitivity to pain or pain symptoms.

We’ve consulted with experts to find the foods that could possibly trigger fibromyalgia pain even if science has yet to distinguish a concrete connection between the two.

Potato Chips  Grabbing for that bag of potato chips, will likely contain one key ingredient that could be linked to pain—glutamate. 
The additive is often used as a harmless flavor enhancer that you’ll commonly find in its salt form, monosodium glutamate (MSG). 

“Some patients notice that their symptoms, specifically musculoskeletal pain, increase when they’re consuming foods that have a lot of MSG,” says Tarah Venn, a registered dietician with the Stanford Pain Management Center. “Glutamate and pain have been linked in studies, which have reported higher concentrations of glutamate in some fibromyalgia patients compared to healthy controls.” 

This may be because glutamate acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter that sends messages within the brain and nervous system. If your pain is sensitive to glutamate consumption, always check the product labels at the grocery store for words like monosodium glutamate, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, and yeast extract. 

Mushrooms
Despite its incredible nutritional value, the edible fungus may trigger pain in fibromyalgia patients because it’s rich in the naturally-occurring form of glutamate. In just a 100-gram serving, 180 milligrams of glutamate are packed into a mushroom, according to the Glutamate Association. Shitake and enokitake mushrooms are the richest in glutamate. 

Other healthy favorites like tomatoes, grapes, and green peas are also good sources of glutamate. But before you entirely cut any foods, especially fruits and veggies, out of your diet, talk to a healthcare professional who will ensure you aren’t missing out on key nutrients. 

Aged cheeses
Sorry cheeseheads, but cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and Roquefort cheese all contain glutamate. In fact, one 100-gram serving of Parmesan cheese packs a whopping 1,600 milligrams of glutamate. But keep in mind that glutamate may not be your issue, dairy could be an irritant as well, at least anecdotally.

Fried chicken
All of that butter, saturated fat, and vegetable oil may give a plate of fried chicken the savory flavor your taste buds crave, but it could wreak havoc on your body and cause inflammation. 

Even though fibromyalgia is not necessarily categorized as an inflammatory condition, inflammation can still cause pain-like symptoms, which is why it’s best to avoid any type of fried foods as much as possible.

Flavoured yoghurt
You may think that your strawberry yogurt is a healthy start to your day, but in reality, it’s packed with loads of sugar from the syrups used for the flavoring. And some low-calorie yogurts even contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame.
Even though there’s no evidence stating that sugar makes fibromyalgia pain worse, some patients have found that cutting out refined sugars improved their fibromyalgia symptoms.

Are these the foods you expected to see listed when you read the title 6 Foods That Could Be Tied to Fibromyalgia Pain? 

Do these foods aggravate your fibro pain? I would love to hear from you... leave a comment please.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

If you are interested in other articles about fibromyalgia and food you may also like:

• An anti-inflammatory diet for fibromyalgia
• Fibromyalgia and diet
• Top tips for healthy eating – The Lucky 13
• Why Omega 3 is so important
• So what reduces inflammation?
• Dietary help for Fibromyalgia: Are you trying simple solutions like Magnesium?

Hydrotherapy Benefits Fibromyalgia Patients Only If They Stick With It, Study Reveals

Hydrotherapy — physical exercise performed in water — can effectively improve clinical symptoms of fibromyalgia only if performed continuously.

That finding was drawn from data collected in a randomized, controlled trial, reported recently in the study “Effects of aquatic training and detraining on women with fibromyalgia: controlled randomized clinical trial.” The study was published in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.

Several non-pharmacological strategies have been proposed to manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Among the non-pharmacological possibilities is aquatic physical training, or hydrotherapy, which consists of an aerobic physical training program that is conducted in a heated pool. This alternative treatment option reduced pain and improved the quality of life of fibromyalgia patients.

METHODS

To have a better understanding of the benefits of hydrotherapy, Brazilian researchers conducted a controlled trial. The study enrolled a total of 54 women with clinically diagnosed fibromyalgia who were randomly assigned to undergo hydrotherapy or just perform their normal daily life activities.

The training program consisted of 32 sessions of 45 minutes, twice a week, for a total of 16 weeks. Each session included a 10-minute warm-up phase, 30 minutes of intense exercise, and five minutes of relaxation exercises.

RESULTS

After 16 weeks of hydrotherapy training the participants showed a significant improvement in their aerobic capacity compared to baseline levels, and compared to those in the control group. Also, after the training program the patients said they experienced less fatigue and anxiety, and improved well-being, functional capacity, and vitality.

The patients showed a 7% reduction in pain scores, 192% increase in SF-36 physical function, and a reduction of 19% in FIQ score after completion of the 16 weeks of therapy.

However, these positive effects were lost during the following 16 weeks, in which the participants stopped the training program. 

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

The team believes that aquatic physical training “should be continuously performed in order to improve clinical symptomatology and increase the aerobic functional capacity” of those living with fibromyalgia.

READ STUDY REPORT 

MY OWN EXPERIENCES WITH HYDROTHERAPY

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Tai Chi for fibromyalgia

Researchers have found that there are greater improvements in Fibromyalgia symptoms in people doing tai chi than in people doing aerobic exercise.

Tai chi, is an ancient Chinese exercise that came out of martial arts that has since become part of traditional Chinese medicine. Tai chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with flowing movements.

The study was led by Dr Chenchen Wang from Tufts University's Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Boston to compare the effects of tai chi with aerobic exercise. 226 adults who had fibromyalgia participated in the study. None of them had engaged in tai chi or other types of alternative therapy in the 6 months before starting the study.

When the study began, the researchers questioned the patients about their physical and mental symptoms, including the intensity of their pain, ability to move, fatigue, depression, anxiety and overall well-being.

The patients were assigned to either aerobic exercise therapy or tai chi. The exercise group completed two supervised aerobic exercise sessions each week for a total of 24 weeks. Those who engaged in tai chi followed one of four treatment plans: one or two sessions per week for a total of either 12 or 24 weeks.

The patients continued taking their medication and made regular visits to their doctor.

This was a single-blind randomised controlled trial and the research was published in BMJ on 21 March 2018.

Researchers found there were greater benefits in people who did tai chi, compared with the aerobic exercise, when done twice a week for 24 weeks.

All patients experienced some relief of their symptoms, but the improvements were much greater among those in the tai chi groups at the end of 24 weeks.The researchers suggest that tai chi should be considered as a therapeutic option for the management of fibromyalgia.

“We think our results suggest that physicians should think about what type of exercise is best for their patients with fibromyalgia,” says Wang. “We found that tai chi was more enjoyable, there was a social connection and they could practice it at home by themselves with their family and friends.”

The great thing about tai chi is that it can be done by most people in most settings.

I have done tai chi in the past, before I had fibromyalgia, and found it very calming. After reading this research I will be looking for a beginner's class in tai chi. How about you have you tried tai chi? I would love to hear.

Natural Treatments for Fibromyalgia

I love natural treatments for my fibromyalgia because not only can they help they usually do no harm. Some people call them alternative treatments or complementary treatments for Fibro. I must say I am someone who is very sensitive to medications and that I usually suffer bad side effects so finding treatments that help relieve some of my fibromyalgia symptoms, without any bad side effects, has been a priority for me. 

It has taken a while to work out which of these treatments works for me and I suppose the main drawback is the cost. I look at it as an investment in me, my well-being and my health... after all if I don't look after myself who will?

So here is a list of the many natural treatments I have written about. I hope you find them useful. Just click on the one you are interested in to be taken to the article.

• An anti inflammatory diet for Fibro
• Creatine and Fibro
• Traditional Chinese Medicine and Fibromyalgia
• Did Acupuncture help your Fibromyalgia?
• Ayurvedic Treatment for Fibromyalgia?
• Why Omega 3 is so important
• Guaifenesin Protocol
• Yoga improves Fibromyalgia symptoms 
• Nutrition-Based Approach to helping relieve symptoms of Fibromyalgia 
• Homoeopathy effective in fibromyalgia 
• Homeopathy helping Fibromyalgia 
• Laughter and Fibromyalgia 
• Magnesium
• Fibromyalgia & Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Myofascial Trigger Points in chronic muscle pain: Causes and Treatment
• Myofacial Pain Syndrome and fibromyalgia treatment: video
• Is this fibro treatment controversial or am I behind the times? New Stem Cell Treatment for Fibromyalgia?
• Tai chi for Fibromyalgia

So I would love to hear if you have tried any of these fibro treatments and if they helped you.