Pg. 90-95 5-minute read
The Fibromyalgia Network defines the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) as a widespread
musculoskeletal pain and fatigue disorder for which the cause is still unknown. It is a complex multisystem physical illness, with pain experienced in at least 3 or 4 quadrants of the body and significant other symptoms. It causes chronic pain throughout the body and is thought to be triggered by physical or emotional stress, trauma, an injury or an illness.
Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, no longer requires tender point examinations for diagnosis. To meet the criteria, pain must be present in at least four of these five areas: the left or right upper region (shoulder, arm, or jaw), the left or right lower region (hip, buttock, or leg), and the axial region (neck, back, chest, or abdomen).
Fibromyalgia symptoms extend beyond widespread musculoskeletal pain and can include fatigue, sleep disorders, digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, brain fog, and depression. Additional symptoms vary by individual and may include stress, tingling or numbness, restless leg syndrome, muscle cramps, dizziness, sensitivity to weather changes, cold, sound, and physical impact, as well as temporomandibular joint disorders and headaches.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, so it is important to manage the symptoms which vary for each individual. Exercise can play an important role in relieving pain and improving function, but often, it is supplemented with medication either prescribed by a doctor or over-the-counter pain relievers. However, there are other ways to support the symptoms of fibromyalgia, including massage, acupuncture, meditation, yoga etc. This paper will explore how aromatherapy can ease the many symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia treatment often involves prescribed medications tailored to individual symptoms, as responses vary. Common options include antidepressants, anti-epileptics, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants. A trial-and-error approach is often needed in treating someone with fibromyalgia.
Research highlights the importance of regular exercise in managing fibromyalgia, with benefits including reduced pain, improved fitness, better daily functioning, and lower stress and depression levels. Tai chi has been shown to be as effective, or more so, than aerobic exercise for symptom improvement. Alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, swimming, and a healthy diet rich in vitamin D and magnesium can also help. Melatonin may aid sleep, depression, and chronic fatigue. Acupuncture can alleviate chronic pain but provides only temporary relief. Various massage therapies, such as Swedish, myofascial release, and Thai massage, are also beneficial.
Essential oils can effectively support the physical and psychological symptoms of fibromyalgia, enhancing overall well-being. Aromatherapy goals often include reducing pain, tension, anxiety, and depression while promoting relaxation and upliftment. Applications range from massage oils, bath salts, and personal inhalers to diffusion for relaxation or sleep.
Key essential oils for fibromyalgia include:
Pain relief: Lavender, Peppermint, Copaiba, Blue Tansy, Turmeric, and Wintergreen.
Sleep support: Lavender, Vetiver, Mandarin, and Sweet Orange.
Brain fog: Rosemary, Lemon, and Pine for mental clarity.
Depression: Frankincense, Chamomile, Bergamot, Jasmine, and Rose for calming and uplifting effects.
Stress relief: Lavender, Bergamot, Roman Chamomile, and Frankincense.
Digestive issues: Ginger, Peppermint, Grapefruit, and Fennel.
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome that is different for each person and is never the same symptom
from one day to the next. It can be one symptom for a few months then can be something else next week. The beauty about essential oils is that they too are flexible and can be adapted or reformulated to address the current issue.
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