Fibromyalgia; treat with acupuncture and tuina

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body, often accompanied by additional symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances and feelings of depression or anxiety. This is a condition that affects daily quality of life, and patients often report how hard it is to explain to those around them just how much the pain and fatigue affect their functioning. The exact cause of the disease is still not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors. Because it is such a complex, multi-system condition, complementary treatment such as acupuncture and Tuina can offer a meaningful addition to standard medical care.

Main Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia shows up through a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity from day to day, and are sometimes mistaken for other conditions.

• Widespread pain and tenderness to touch in the muscles and joints
• Persistent fatigue that does not resolve even after rest
• Sleep disturbances and a feeling of unrefreshing sleep
• Difficulty concentrating, sometimes called “fibro fog”
• Mood changes, including anxiety or depressive feelings

What Causes Fibromyalgia

Researchers have not yet found a single, definitive cause of fibromyalgia, but there is broad agreement that it involves a combination of several factors. Genetic predisposition, changes in the way the central nervous system processes pain signals, infections or physical events, and ongoing mental and emotional strain are all considered possible contributing factors. In some patients, the condition first appears or worsens following a period of significant stress or a particularly difficult event.

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia

Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, aimed at stimulating the flow of energy, Qi, and releasing stagnation. In people with fibromyalgia, it has been found to help reduce pain intensity, improve sleep quality and improve overall well-being. Acupuncture does not replace medical follow-up, but it can be a valuable addition that helps the body cope better with the chronic strain.

Tuina for Fibromyalgia

Tuina is a type of ancient Chinese massage that combines gentle pressure, stretching and manipulation of the soft tissues, aimed at restoring balance to the body. The treatment is considered effective for releasing muscular tension, improving blood flow and reducing local inflammation. Like acupuncture, Tuina has been found to help ease fibromyalgia symptoms, including pain, fatigue and depressive feelings.

Additional Lifestyle Support

Alongside acupuncture and Tuina, many fibromyalgia patients also benefit from paying attention to their daily lifestyle. Regular sleep, gentle movement matched to the body’s ability, and stress management through breathing or relaxation can support the treatment process and help the body cope better with the chronic strain. It is important to progress gradually and carefully, adapting every change to each patient’s personal limits and sensations.

What to Expect From Treatment

Treatment for fibromyalgia at Machat Ruach is personalized to each patient, based on their main symptoms and medical history. Shai Davids builds a treatment plan that combines acupuncture and Tuina as needed, accompanying the patient throughout the process and adjusting treatment as their condition changes. Change is usually gradual rather than immediate, so it helps to approach treatment with realistic expectations and a willingness to support the body through the process. It is important to remember that Chinese medicine is a complementary treatment, and does not replace standard medical diagnosis and treatment but works alongside it.

Booking a Treatment

If you are dealing with fibromyalgia and looking for a natural way to ease your symptoms, you are welcome to contact the Machat Ruach clinics in Jerusalem and Ramat Gan. Click here to book a treatment.