Musculoskeletal Health - Fibromyalgia Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is fibromyalgia?
A condition of chronic widespread pain and abnormal pain-processing mechanisms.
What are other common symptoms of fibromyalgia?
Fatigue, sleep disturbance, stiffness, headaches, bowel issues, anxiety, and depression.
What diagnostic criteria are used for fibromyalgia?
WPI score ≥7 and SS score ≥5 or WPI 4–6 and SS ≥9; symptoms ≥3 months; no other condition explains it.
How is trauma linked to fibromyalgia?
Physical/emotional trauma can dysregulate the HPAA and cause pain sensitivity via hyperalgesic priming.
What is the role of hypothyroidism in fibromyalgia?
Thyroid hormones normally suppress substance P; low thyroid can increase pain perception.
How is intestinal dysbiosis involved in fibromyalgia?
SIBO and reduced SCFA-producing bacteria like F. prausnitzii may contribute to pain and inflammation.
Which infections are linked to fibromyalgia?
EBV — higher IgG levels correlate with fibromyalgia symptoms.
Which nutrient deficiencies are common in fibromyalgia?
Vitamin D, B12, and magnesium — involved in pain modulation, NT production, and inflammation.
What is the role of gluten in fibromyalgia?
Gluten reactivity (e.g., coeliac, NCGS) is common and can worsen symptoms.
What genetic factors are associated with fibromyalgia?
SNPs in MTHFR, COMT, and GSTM1 affecting methylation, detoxification, and pain sensitivity.
How do heavy metals affect fibromyalgia?
They lower glutathione, increase inflammation, and disturb neurotransmitter balance.
What diets are recommended for fibromyalgia?
Gluten-free, low FODMAP, and CNM stress/fatigue dietary protocol.
What is the role of magnesium in fibromyalgia?
Blocks NMDA receptors and provides analgesic effects; reduces muscle tension and improves sleep.
How does vitamin D help in fibromyalgia?
Reduces cytokines, modulates central pain processing, and lowers PGE2.
What is 5-HTP and its role in fibromyalgia?
5-HTP is a serotonin precursor that supports melatonin and pain regulation.
What detox strategies help in fibromyalgia?
Support liver, boost glutathione (e.g., NAC), use saunas, optimize antioxidants (vitamins C, E, flavonoids).
What is the role of CoQ10 in fibromyalgia?
Supports mitochondria and reduces oxidative stress; deficiency is linked to symptom severity.
How does ashwagandha help in fibromyalgia?
Supports HPAA, improves sleep and resilience; shows anti-nociceptive effects via opioidergic pathways.
How does St. John’s Wort affect fibromyalgia?
Modulates GABA, MAO, and serotonin; helps with pain and mood.
What is the role of Devil’s Claw in fibromyalgia?
Reduces proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and COX-2 activity.
How does capsaicin work in fibromyalgia?
Desensitises C-fibre neurons that release substance P, reducing pain perception.
What type of exercise is best for fibromyalgia?
Regular low-impact aerobic exercise (e.g., swimming, walking, Tai Chi) to improve pain perception.
What is the role of sleep in fibromyalgia?
Poor sleep impairs pain inhibition; non-restorative sleep is common in FM.
What tissue salts are used in fibromyalgia?
Kali. phos (nerve nutrient) and Mag. phos (pain relief, sleep, anxiety).
