Fibromyalgia Myth Busting

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· Decreased blood flow to specific areas of the brain, particularly the thalamus region, which may help explain the pain sensitivity and cognitive functioning problems experienced by fibromyalgia patients.

· High levels of “substance P,” a central nervous system neurotransmitter involved in pain processing.

· Low levels of nerve growth factor.

· Low levels of somatomedin C, a hormone that promotes bone and muscle growth.

· Low levels of several neurochemicals: serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine and cortisol.

· Low levels of phosphocreatine and adenosine, muscle-cell chemicals.

Despite the scientific evidence, some medical professionals continue to dismiss fibromyalgia as a psychological problem, insisting that the symptoms are caused by depression. The fact is that the percentage of FM patients who suffer from depression is no higher than for any other chronic illness. Unfortunately, since it takes an average of 17 years for new research to become part of mainstream medicine, we’re probably going to be fighting this myth for several more years.

Reprinted with permission of ProHealth, Inc. from “FM Research and Treatment News,” 5/30/07.