The Mayo Clinic describes Fibromyalgia as a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals.
Fibromyalgia can be difficult to diagnose. If you think you might be suffering from Fibromyalgia speak with your primary doctor.
Although there is no lab test to confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, your doctor may want to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Blood tests may include:
Cyclic citrullinated peptide test
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Complete blood count
Rheumatoid factor
Thyroid function test
The website Verywellhealth.com published a blog that looked at Acupuncture for treatment of Fibromyalgia and this is an excerpt of their blog:
You can find studies showing positive results with most of these techniques as well as those saying there's no improvement in fibromyalgia symptoms.
Reviews of literature published in 2013 (Cao H, Deare) and 2014 (Yang) came to the following conclusions:
Acupuncture and similar treatments appear to be effective fibromyalgia treatments compared with medications.
Acupuncture combined with drugs and exercise may improve pain thresholds in the short-term.
Evidence that acupuncture improves pain and stiffness in fibromyalgia is of low to moderate quality.
Electroacupuncture may be superior to traditional acupuncture for pain and stiffness, well-being, sleep, and fatigue.
Acupuncture appears safe for people with fibromyalgia.
You can read the entire blog here ‘Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia’
Dr. Andrew Weil also recommends acupuncture and medical massage as part of a wellness plan for Fibromyalgia patients. You can read his blog here: ‘Fibromyalgia’