Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition affecting an estimated 2% of the global population. It is characterized by widespread pain, heightened sensitivity to pressure, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive challenges (commonly known as “fibro fog”), and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Other common symptoms include irritable bowel syndrome, joint stiffness, headaches, menstrual pain, and tingling in the extremities. While the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, risk factors include being female, having a family history of the condition, or a history of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or autoimmune diseases like lupus.
Many patients with fibromyalgia turn to complementary and alternative therapies, with acupuncture being a leading choice. Research has demonstrated acupuncture’s effectiveness in alleviating pain, improving sleep, and enhancing overall quality of life for fibromyalgia patients.
The Role of Oriental Medicine in Fibromyalgia
In Oriental medicine, fibromyalgia is viewed as a disruption in the flow of Qi (vital energy) within the body, often linked to imbalances in the Liver, Spleen, Kidney, and Heart systems. Pain, according to Chinese medicine, arises from stagnation or blockages in Qi and blood circulation. The guiding principle, expressed as “Bu tong ze tong, tong ze bu tong” (free flow: no pain, no free flow: pain), underscores the importance of restoring energetic harmony to relieve pain.
How Acupuncture Helps
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to restore Qi flow, reduce inflammation, and enhance the nervous system’s ability to regulate pain. Studies suggest acupuncture can also help normalize neurotransmitter levels, which play a role in mood and pain perception. Additionally, it may promote better sleep by calming the mind and reducing stress.
Treatment plans are individualized and may include:
- Acupuncture: To address specific pain points and systemic imbalances.
- Herbal Medicine: To support energy, reduce inflammation, and address other symptoms such as insomnia or digestive disturbances.
- Dietary Recommendations: To strengthen the digestive system and support overall health.
- Moxibustion: The application of heat to acupuncture points using the herb mugwort to enhance circulation and immunity.
- Other Modalities: Including cupping therapy or Qi Gong exercises to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
Oriental medicine emphasizes treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Practitioners evaluate patients’ unique physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors to create a tailored treatment plan. The goal is to address root imbalances while also providing symptom relief, empowering individuals to regain control over their health.
Acupuncture and Oriental medicine offer a safe and effective option for managing fibromyalgia, helping patients find relief from pain, improve their energy levels, and enjoy a better quality of life.
Testimonials
From Stage 3 Kidney Disease to Normal Levels: How Acupuncture Helped Me Heal
During the summer and fall of 2024, I experienced extreme fatigue. I never felt rested after waking up and often found myself taking midday naps on my couch. I ignored these symptoms, making excuses for my lack of energy. It wasn’t until January 2025 that I had a blood test which revealed that my kidneys were failing, with a creatinine level of 1.29 and an EGFR of 40. After researching kidney disease, I learned that these numbers indicated stage 3 kidney disease (there are five stages, with stage 5 requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).
I immediately began researching and adopted a kidney-friendly diet, eliminated unnecessary supplements while maintaining only the essentials, and started acupuncture treatments. After five acupuncture sessions, I had my blood tested again. I was hoping for a slight improvement to confirm that I was headed in the right direction, but to my surprise, my scores had returned to normal—my creatinine measured 0.67 and my EGFR was 84.
This felt like a minor miracle, and I plan to continue my diet and acupuncture treatments to maintain these stable results. I’m extremely grateful for the care I’ve received at Ancient Path Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.
