Most doctors don’t know that fibromyalgia pain originates in the fascia. Myofascial inflammation and pathologic levels of muscle tension trigger the central sensitization and immune system problems seen in fibromyalgia. Fascia-directed therapies are key to finding effective pain relief.
People with fibromyalgia have pain for no known reason. Camilla Svensson’s group at Karolinska Institutet has discovered that people with fibromyalgia have something in their blood that people without it are lacking; they have antibodies that seem to trigger the pain. Svensson hypothesises that they activate the nerve cells, causing them to send constant pain signals. This finding could mean that fibromyalgia will need to change its category. From pain where there is no physical explanation – and where some are not even believed – to pain that can be explained as a misprogrammed immune system.
The symptoms of fibromyalgia include long-term, body-wide pain and tenderness in the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Dr. Andrew Gross, UCSF Rheumatology Clinic Director, discusses fibromyalgia and how to manage the syndrome.
“Cannabis and CBD can be beneficial for fibromyalgia patients because they address some of the underlying causes of the condition instead of just masking the symptoms. They can help reduce neuropathic and pelvic pain, spasms, headaches, inflammation, and anxiety or stress that can trigger or worsen flares. Cannabis may also improve imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin in fibromyalgia, help enhance mood, and alleviate depression that often accompanies this painful chronic disease with no cure. We’re excited to have a special guest speaker, Dr. Michele N. Ross, Ph.D., MBA, who not only studies fibromyalgia but also recovered from it. Dr Ross is renowned worldwide for her work as a health coach, cannabis expert, author, and neuroscientist. She has developed The BRACE Method to help fibromyalgia patients address the root problems instead of just treating the symptoms.”
