Fibromyalgia, sometimes referred to as “Central Sensitisation Syndrome,” is a complex neurosensory disorder that affects the way the brain processes pain. Individuals living with fibromyalgia find themselves unable to properly process and respond to pain signals. This condition can be extremely debilitating, leaving those affected with widespread pain, fatigue, and a host of other debilitating symptoms.
So, what exactly causes fibromyalgia?
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis Dysfunction and Chronic Stress
In fibromyalgia, it appears that distress can be converted into physical pain through an overactive sympathetic stress response system. This leads to a dysregulation of the HPA axis, which plays a critical role in the body’s ability to manage stress and heal from trauma.
Physical, Chemical, and Psychological Trauma
Fibromyalgia is often triggered by significant life events, such as a physical injury, exposure to toxic chemicals, or psychological trauma like the loss of a loved one or abuse. While many people can overcome and heal from these types of traumas, some individuals are unable to do so, leading to sustained HPA axis activation and a cascade of downstream effects.
Abnormalities in Pain Processing
At the neurological level, individuals with fibromyalgia exhibit several key changes, including elevated levels of excitatory neurotransmitters, decreased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the spinal cord’s anti-nociceptive pathways, and dysregulation of dopamine and endogenous opioids. These alterations contribute to the amplification and prolongation of pain sensations.
When addressing fibromyalgia, it’s essential to take a holistic approach that considers a wide range of potential contributing factors, including:
- Thyroid disorders
- Autoimmunity
- Emotional and physical traumas
- Food sensitivities
- Heavy metal and chemical toxicities
- Imbalances in the gut microbiome
- Adrenal stress
- Chronic infections
- SIBO, mold, and heavy metal exposure
- Reproductive hormone imbalances
By conducting thorough testing and evaluation, I as a naturopathic practitioner can develop personalised treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual. This may involve dietary modifications, targeted supplementation, herbal medicines, mind-body practices, improved sleep, and regular exercise – all with the goal of restoring balance and resilience within the body’s interconnected systems.
Navigating the complexities of fibromyalgia can be overwhelming, but by taking a comprehensive, integrative approach, naturopathic medicine can empower patients to take an active role in their recovery. Through education, compassionate support, and evidence-based interventions, naturopaths can help those living with fibromyalgia achieve greater pain relief, enhanced quality of life, and a renewed sense of hope.
Remember, you are not alone on this journey! I myself have fibromyalgia, so I truly understand the challenge it is! If you would like to work closely with me, we can uncover the root causes of your fibromyalgia and develop a customised plan to address those causes and pave the way for improved health and well-being.