Homoeopathic Remedies for Fibromyalgia
Also indexed as: Fibrositis
Homoeopathy can often provide relief from the unpredictable, sometimes debilitating, aches
and pains of fibromyalgia. Nutritional supplements, dietary monitoring, special types of
exercise, and other natural approaches are also helpful and may be used along with
remedies.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homoeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homoeopathy?
Arnica: This remedy is indicated when any body area feels bruised and sore, after
exertion, overuse of muscles, or injury. Sometimes Arnica is enough to soothe a
chronic condition; often, other remedies follow Arnica.
Bryonia: A person who needs this remedy tries to stay as still as possible, since
even the slightest motion aggravates the pain. People who need this remedy often feel
extremely irritable and grumpy, not wanting to be touched or interfered with. Warmth often
makes things worse and cool applications may be soothing. Pressure on the painful parts (or
lying on them) often helps, because it minimizes movement.
Calcarea carbonica: Muscle soreness and weakness that are worse from exertion, and
worse from getting cold and damp, may be relieved by this remedy. The person often is chilly
with clammy hands and feet, easily fatigued, and has a tendency to feel overwhelmed and
anxious. Cravings for sweets and eggs often confirm the choice of this remedy.
Causticum: Soreness, weakness, and stiffness in the muscles—worse from being
cold and worse from overuse—suggests a need for this remedy. The forearms often feel
stiff, unsteady, and very weak. The muscles of the legs can feel contracted and sore, and the
person may have restless legs at night. Problems tend to be worse when the weather is dry, and
better in rainy weather (although getting wet aggravates the pain and stiffness). Warm
applications and warming up in bed often relieve discomfort.
Cimicifuga (also called Actae racemosa): People who need this remedy are often
energetic and talkative, becoming depressed or fearful when physical problems trouble them.
Soreness and stiffness of muscles may be accompanied by shooting pains and are usually
aggravated by getting cold. The neck and spinal muscles can be very tight, and the person may
have headaches and other problems during menstrual periods.
Kalmia latifolia: Severe pain in the muscles, extending from higher areas to lower
ones, often responds to this remedy. Shooting pains may occur, along with stiffness,
neuralgia, and numbness or a cold sensation. Pains can come on suddenly, and often shift
around, being worse from motion and worse at night.
Ranunculus bulbosus: This remedy is often helpful with fibrositis and muscle
stiffness, especially when the neck and back muscles are involved. Stabbing pains and soreness
may be felt near the spine and shoulder-blades, especially on the left. Problems may be
aggravated by cold damp weather, walking, and alcoholic beverages.
Rhus toxicodendron: If a person feels very restless, with stiffness and soreness
that find relief in warmth and motion, this remedy should be considered. Problems are
aggravated in cold, damp weather. Stiffness and pain are worse on waking in the morning, and
after periods of rest.
Ruta graveolens: Tremendous stiffness of the muscles, with lameness, pain, and
weakness (especially after overuse) may be soothed with this remedy. The legs and hips are
sore and weak, and the person may find it difficult to stand after sitting in a chair. Muscles
in the back and neck feel bruised, the tendons may be sore, and the wrists and hands feel
painful and contracted.
Homoeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homoeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homoeopathy? and Understanding Homoeopathic Potencies.
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only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
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making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.