Fibromyalgia Treatment: 3 Proven Unique Alternatives

by Dr. Kilcup | Sep 28, 2023 | Articles, Fibromyalgia, Functional Medicine, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), red light therapy (photobiomodulation)

Fibromyalgia Treatment

Living with fibromyalgia can be incredibly challenging, with its persistent pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties deeply impacting daily life. Effective fibromyalgia treatment requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the condition. This includes the dysregulation of the central nervous system and abnormalities in pain signal processing. Fortunately, several promising treatments have shown effectiveness in managing fibromyalgia symptoms: functional medicine, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), and red light therapy.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome.

What is the cause of Fibromyalgia?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. This condition affects the way the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, leading to an amplified perception of pain.

What Symptoms does Fibromyalgia have?

  1. Widespread Pain: Persistent and widespread pain throughout the body, often described as aching, burning, or throbbing.
  2. Fatigue: Profound and unrelenting fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep.
  3. Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and experiencing restorative sleep.
  4. Cognitive Issues: Often referred to as “fibro fog,” this includes difficulties with concentration, memory, and cognitive function.
  5. Morning Stiffness: Feeling stiff and achy, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  6. Headaches: Frequent tension headaches or migraines.
  7. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
  8. Depression and Anxiety: Mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, are common among people with fibromyalgia.
  9. Tender Points: Specific points on the body that are tender to touch and can be used as part of the diagnostic criteria.
  10. Sensitivity to Temperature and Pressure: Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and increased sensitivity to pressure, which can make everyday activities painful.

3 Proven Options: Fibromyalgia Treatment

Dr Kilcup

Fibromyalgia Treatment: Functional Medicine

Functional Medicine is a great treatment option for individuals with fibromyalgia, focusing on identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic conditions rather than merely managing symptoms. This patient-centered approach involves a comprehensive evaluation of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors that may contribute to fibromyalgia.

Functional medicine practitioners utilize a variety of strategies to help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. First, we would do comprehensive blood work and run other tests to find underlying root causes of fibromyalgia. Then, based on the results, we would create a personalized treatment plan to address the issues. These may include dietary changes, such as eliminating foods that trigger inflammation, and supplements like magnesium and vitamin D.

Another critical aspect of functional medicine in treating fibromyalgia is addressing gut health. Research has shown a link between gut dysbiosis and chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia. Functional medicine uses special comprehensive tests to find and treat gut issues by using probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications. By doing this, we can restore a healthy gut microbiome, which can help reduce systemic inflammation and improve overall well-being.

In summary, functional medicine offers a holistic and individualized approach to treating fibromyalgia. By addressing the underlying factors contributing to the condition, we can not only to alleviate symptoms but also to improve overall health and quality of life for those affected by fibromyalgia.

We can work with patients anywhere in the world and are located in Phoenix, AZ. To get started, please fill out our new patient form linked below!

Fibromyalgia Treatment: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is gaining recognition as an option for individuals struggling with fibromyalgia. This non-invasive treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases the oxygen levels in the body’s tissues. Research in this area is ongoing, there are promising findings that suggest HBOT may offer tangible benefits for fibromyalgia patients.

HBOT may be beneficial for those with fibromyalgia is in addressing the chronic pain associated with the condition. A prospective clinical trial published in 2015 found that individuals who underwent HBOT can improve FMS symptoms and life quality. Additionally, this research indicated that HBOT can actually change the way the brain works. Addressing the brain problems for people with fibromyalgia. HBOT reduces pain by lowering inflammation and increasing blood flow to the areas that hurt.

Our office is located in Phoenix, AZ. If you live close by, please fill out our new patient form to get started!

Fibromyalgia Treatment: Red Light Therapy

Red Light Therapy, also known as Photobiomodulation therapy, is gaining recognition as a relief option for individuals with fibromyalgia. This non-invasive treatment uses to specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, to stimulate cellular processes.

One of the primary ways in which red light therapy appears to assist those with fibromyalgia is by alleviating pain. Studies, such as one published in “Lasers in Medical Science” in 2017, have shown that red light therapy can help reduce pain levels in individuals with fibromyalgia. Pain reduction is thought to be linked to the production of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.

Furthermore, red light therapy may aid in improving sleep patterns, a significant issue for many fibromyalgia patients. A study published in “Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine” in 2018 found that red light therapy helped enhance sleep quality and reduce sleep disturbances in individuals with fibromyalgia. These initial findings suggest that red light therapy holds promise as a natural and non-invasive approach to managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

Our office is located in Phoenix, AZ. If you live close by, please fill out our new patient form to get started!

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The integration of Functional Medicine, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), and Red Light Therapy presents a promising approach to individuals with fibromyalgia. This holistic approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of the condition, allowing for personalized treatments that can alleviate symptoms and improve overall quality of life. HBOT enhances cellular function and reduce inflammation, while red light therapy can aid in pain management and tissue repair. Combining these therapies within a functional medicine framework, individuals with fibromyalgia can take control of their health.

Darrell Kilcup, DC, CFMP

Hi there! I’m Dr. Kilcup. You know that health problem you’ve been dealing with – the one that doctors can’t seem to solve, that’s stealing way too much of your time, energy and joy? I can help you get to the bottom that. I am passionate about using the best of science and nutrition to find and fix root causes of health issues. Start your journey towards healing and relief today.

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5.0 4 reviews
I have been using the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for the last few weeks and It has helped me so much. I struggle quite a bit with work related stress. When I'm in the chamber I feel completely relaxed, so much so that I can bring my laptop inside and work without stressing. The calmness I feel in the chamber lasts for the remainder of the day as well. I have found too, the more consistent I am with sessions throughout the week the better I feel. The office staff seems well trained in running the tanks too, so I feel safe. I see Dr. Kilcup as well for my brain and gut health. Until now, I don't think I've ever known what "normal" or "healthy" feels like. Thank you all, sincerely!
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Mike Kutz Avatar
Mike Kutz
1 year ago
Dr. Kilcup is a pleasure to work with. His office is beautiful! I can’t wait to try his hyperbaric chambers!
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Sarina Gomez Avatar
Sarina Gomez
1 year ago
Darrell is highly knowledgeable and really gets to the root of the problem. Unlike a lot of doctors, Darrell doesn't just throw prescriptions at issues. He will test and test - digging for the cause and then working on fixing the issue. He and his staff are professional, courteous, and a joy to be around.
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Kevin Miller Avatar
Kevin Miller
1 year ago
I am very grateful to have found Dr. Kilcup and be his patient for the last couple of years. He has helped me restore my health back after being exposed to toxic mold for years. He helped identify and treat all of my symptoms I was experiencing and address the root problem. I was looking for the right person who could help me heal with natural therapies and supplements and Dr. Kilcup was the perfect fit. Every appointment and session was necessary and one step towards all the progress I made. Dr. Kilcup is a great functional medicine doctor who was also an advocate for my own health and well-being. I never received any care or attention to detail from other Doctors in past experiences except with Dr. Kilcup. Anyone who is seeking a holistic path towards healing or improving their own health should see him.
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Ciara Wakley
2 years ago