Fibromyalgia is a relatively common disorder associated with widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness in the nape (back of neck region) of the neck, trapezius muscle, medial border of scapulae, gluteal region, forearm, and medial side of the knee. It is associated with local swelling and reactive hyperemia at these tender spots. The nature of pain is deep throbbing, shooting, and stabbing and often with a burning sensation, (also knowns as fibrositis).

[Note – hyperemia means an excess of blood in vessels supplying an organ or part of the body]

In general, this condition is seen most commonly in young women who are otherwise healthy but are often stressed, tensed, depressed, lack proper sleep, and anxious. Symptoms are often worsened by emotional and physical stress. There is a history of poor sleep and lack of freshness when waking up in the morning. Usually, the onset of symptoms is gradual.

-researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way the brain processes pain signals. Ayurveda treatment consists of an explanation of the disorder (no major cause) along with local massage and ‘Nadi swedana’. Relaxation and muscle toning exercises in the affected area are helpful

The etiological factor of frigidity…

The true cause is still undermined but as per the latest research, the multiple hit theory involves genetic disposition (heredity) by some trigger as explained below.

• infection – a past illness may be worsening the symptoms such as flu, pneumonia, or gi infection, caused by viruses like salmonella linked to fibromyalgia manifestation.
• genes – often it is seen fibromyalgia runs in family. You are at higher risk of fibromyalgia if you have a family member with this condition
• -trauma – this condition link to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), usually those people who have gone through severe physical or emotional trauma.
• stress – like traumatic impact, stress also can leave a long-lasting effect on the body. Stress mainly disturbed the hormonal changes which can produce fibromyalgia.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia…

• generalize stiffness or aches at many sites of the body for more than 3 months.
• generalized fatigue with headache with migraine
• insomnia or sleep disorder, particularly time cycle
• neuronal and psychological complaints
• swelling with a tingling sensation or numbness
• painful menstruation in females
• hypersensitivity to cold or heat
• anxiety and depression
• irritable bowel syndrome
• fibro fog (sometimes problem with thinking and memory)
• dryness in the mouth, nose, and eyes
• abdominal pain

The Ayurvedic concept of management

In Ayurveda, there is ‘Vata-vyadhi’ mentioned which is quite similar to fibromyalgia known as ‘Mansa dhatugat and mansavrut vata’ and as per successful treatment history of fibromyalgia, Ayurveda believes the main causative factor is ‘Vata dosha’ imbalance.

According to Ayurveda, Vata is the main accumulated dosha, gets aggravated and destabilizes the nervous system, and creates hypersensitivity leading to pain and tenderness. Accumulation of ‘aam’(toxins) and ‘shrotoavarodh’ (blockage of circular channels) are also contributory factors.

Ayurveda further explains toxins within the body are considered the root cause of many autoimmune disorders like ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and disease like arthritis. Toxins block the channels of circulation to the affected area.

In Pranava Kerala Ayurveda Clinic, the first line of treatment for fibromyalgia aggravated Vata and accumulated toxins will be tackled and flush out the toxins out of the body with correction of the digestion system with constipation and effect of chronic stress.

Panchakarma therapy is highly effective in the case of fibromyalgia. The ‘snehan’ (pre-purification measure through massage by herbal medicated oil) and ‘swedan’ (sudation or sweating through medicated herbal smoke) are very useful in balancing ‘Vata dosha’ and loosening the ‘aam’ (toxins). ‘snehan’ is given first and after ‘snehan’, immediate ‘swedan’ will be given. An herbal decoction may be added to enhance the effect.

To find out more about how Ayurveda can help with the above condition, visit Pranava Kerala Ayurveda Clinic or call 0208 907 7902 to book an appointment with an expert Ayurvedic Practitioner.