Fibromyalgia – St. Cloud, FL
Find Relief from Persistent Pain
Fibromyalgia is a widely misunderstood disorder that is difficult to diagnose. However, since it can greatly interfere with a patient’s quality of life, it is important to Dr. Murphy and our team that we do all we can to help patients who are suffering from it. Read on below to learn more about what this condition is, the symptoms it can cause, and how we may be able to help you find relief.
Why Choose Holistic Medicine Wellness Center for Fibromyalgia Treatment?
- Whole-Body Care
- Conservative, Natural Remedies
- Experienced Holistic Physician
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread, generalized pain at locations throughout the body. Scientific research has yet to uncover a specific cause for fibromyalgia. However, it is intriguing to note that it may be related to the mitochondria and oxidative stress. The mitochondria are structures within the body’s cells that produce a molecule called ATP. ATP is responsible for energy production, muscle contractions, protein synthesis, and a range of other biochemical reactions.
When the mitochondria are not functioning properly, a lack of ATP can lead to many of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.
Who Is at Risk for Fibromyalgia?
Dr. Murphy has noticed a pattern amongst fibromyalgia patients. Often, it occurs in females who have a history of trauma in their life. For example, they may have seen someone die, been a victim of sexual assault, suffered through an abusive relationship, or been involved in a car wreck. It also commonly occurs in individuals who work in jobs where they often witness trauma. For example, it may affect medical professionals, law enforcement officers, and members of the military.
Even some medications, such as statins that are usually used for cholesterol control, may cause symptoms that resemble fibromyalgia. Cholesterol makes ubiquinol, which is a form of COQ10. The mitochondria require COQ10 for ATP production, and when this is low, it can cause side effects such as fatigue, cramps, and muscle pain.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Symptoms of fibromyalgia can include:
- Generalized pain
- Mood swings
- Emotional issues
- Brain fog
- Persistent fatigue
It is true that many conditions besides fibromyalgia can cause these symptoms. Therefore, fibromyalgia is usually a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that it is only diagnosed after other possible causes of the symptoms have been ruled out.
Treating Fibromyalgia
The conventional approach to treating fibromyalgia involves medication, such as those for nerve pain, as well as anti-depressants and mood stabilizers. Unfortunately, while some patients do notice improvements with this regimen, others find that they do not improve or that their condition worsens. The problem with conventional treatments is that they do nothing to help the mitochondria make ATP or reduce oxidative stress.
Even worse, some patients are told that their symptoms are “all in their head” and do not receive adequate medical help.
Here at Holistic Medicine Wellness Center, we strive to take a different approach. For example, we may use urine samples to perform organic acid testing. This can measure vitamin deficiencies, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function. Because the testing provides information about ATP production, it can give us insight into how to address your symptoms. Dietary changes, supplements, and certain lifestyle changes may help you experience significant improvements in how you feel.