Call
310-457-1775

PATHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Fibromyalgia, a mysteriously debilitating syndrome, is taking an increase toll on our population. It is characterized by constant presence of pain so severe that it is often incapacitating. In the United States, three to six million people may be afflicted with its symptoms. It is estimated that 15% to 20% of patients seen by rheumatologists have fibromyalgia. The condition mainly affects women aged 25 to 50 years.

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

In order to better understand the origin of fibromyalgia, some scientists conducted several studies that examined muscle chemistry, physiology and structure. Studies have found that victims of the syndrome appeared to have reduced circulation to their muscles cells and damage to the cells energy producing mechanism. This strongly suggests an energy deficient reduced circulation enough to prevent adequate oxygen from getting to the muscle cells might result in fibromyalgia. It is also known that in people with fibromyalgia the body breaks down muscle protein at an unusually high rate and converts it to glucose for energy. This increased level of muscle tissue breakdown has been interpreted as one of the main reasons for the pain, aching and fatigue.

In many recent studies thyroid function has been linked to causing symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Thyroid blood test has been known not to be accurate.

Some new research indicates that fibromyalgia may be associated with certain deficiencies that may be managed naturally through nutrition. For the body to manufacture energy, it requires the presence of certain compounds, including oxygen, magnesium, ADP, phosphate and fuel for energy. A shortage of any of these may mean that the body cannot efficiently manufacture ATP (energy storage molecules), causing the individual to experience fatigue and muscle pain. It is interesting to note that some studies have suggested that patients with fibromyalgia tend to be deficient in magnesium, which is one of the most crucial nutrients needed for ATP energy production. Another possibility may be aluminum toxicity.