Stem Cell Treatment for Fibromyalgia
Understanding Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, heightened sensitivity in specific body points, fatigue, cognitive disturbances, and sleep disorders. Often referred to as “fibromyalgia syndrome” due to its diverse clinical manifestations, it predominantly affects women aged 34 to 57.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia manifests as generalized pain and stiffness in muscles, tendons, and joints without accompanying inflammation. Despite potentially debilitating pain, patients do not develop tissue damage or deformity. Common pain areas include the neck, buttocks, shoulders, arms, back, and chest. “Tender points” can trigger widespread pain and muscle spasms when touched.
Causes of Fibromyalgia
Although the exact causes are not known for sure, fibromyalgia is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, although most cases seem to occur without apparent cause. Fibromyalgia is often associated with abnormalities in the central nervous system, including changes in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals. Specifically, an alteration in the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine has been observed.
Some of the possible factors that may contribute to fibromyalgia include:
- Genetics: It has been observed that people with a family history of fibromyalgia are at higher risk of developing the disease compared to those who do not.
- Physical trauma: Some people develop fibromyalgia after experiencing physical trauma, such as neck, back, or shoulder injuries.
- Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections have been suggested to trigger or contribute to the development of fibromyalgia.
- Autoimmune factors: Although it is unclear whether fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder itself, many patients with fibromyalgia also have autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus. Some researchers suggest there could be a connection between these diseases and fibromyalgia.
- Psychological factors: Depression, anxiety, and chronic stress are often associated with fibromyalgia and may influence the severity of symptoms.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia manifests with pain, stiffness, and sensitivity in muscles, tendons, and joints. The involved tissues do not accompany inflammation. Therefore, despite potentially disabling pain, fibromyalgia patients do not develop tissue damage or deformity. Pain usually affects the neck, buttocks, shoulders, arms, back, and chest. “Tender points” are located in areas of the body that can cause generalized pain and muscle spasms when touched. Pain and stiffness often worsen in the morning, and muscles used repeatedly may hurt more.
Another characteristic alteration of fibromyalgia is fatigue, which persists almost all day. This symptom can be mild in some patients and very severe in others.
People with fibromyalgia have poor tolerance to physical exertion. This fact means that any moderate-intensity exercise produces pain, which makes it avoided. The consequence is that efforts are increasingly reduced, muscle mass diminishes, and exercise tolerance level further decreases.
70% of fibromyalgia patients complain of poor quality sleep, with pain worsening on days when they sleep poorly.
In addition to the above, people with fibromyalgia often present multiple associated symptoms, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Migraines
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Cognitive or memory disturbance
- Circulatory disorders
- Muscle cramps
- Irritable bladder
- Dizziness
- Dry eyes and mouth
- Motor coordination disturbances
Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia
Diagnostic Criteria
Before being diagnosed, fibromyalgia patients often visit many doctors, likely because pain and fatigue relate to multiple signs and symptoms. The medical team must rule out other potential causes before diagnosing fibromyalgia, as there is currently no specific diagnostic test for this disease. Consequently, some doctors unfortunately conclude that the patient’s pain is not real.
The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is based on specific criteria established by medical organizations, such as the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). These criteria involve the presence of widespread pain (pain on both sides of the body, above and below the waist) for at least three months and sensitivity in at least 11 of the 18 specific tender points on the body, including areas of the neck, shoulders, chest, back, elbows, hips, and knees.
In addition to widespread pain and tender points, fibromyalgia patients often experience a variety of additional symptoms, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and emotional symptoms. The doctor may evaluate these additional symptoms as part of the diagnostic process.
Diagnostic Challenges
Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be challenging due to the overlap of symptoms with other conditions, the lack of specific diagnostic tests, and the variability in symptom presentation among patients. This often leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Classification of Fibromyalgia
Given the breadth of symptoms that can be associated with fibromyalgia, there has been a need to classify patients into different subgroups considering psychopathic profiles in addition to the coexistence with other conditions:
- Type I: Idiopathic Fibromyalgia. This group includes patients with extreme sensitivity to pain not associated with psychiatric processes or chronic diseases.
- Type II: Fibromyalgia Associated with Chronic Diseases. This group classifies cases where the patient suffers from another disease, usually of rheumatologic origin, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Type III: Fibromyalgia Secondary to Psychiatric Disease. The key aspect of this group is identifying a psychiatric disease prior to the diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
Traditional Treatments for Fibromyalgia and Their Limitations
Traditional treatment for fibromyalgia generally focuses on managing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. Given the complex and multifaceted nature of fibromyalgia, treatment is usually multidisciplinary.
Education and Self-Care: This includes stress management techniques, sleep improvement tips, exercise guidelines, and lifestyle changes to enhance quality of life.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs can be used. For more intense pain, medications like tricyclic antidepressants, SNRIs, or muscle relaxants might be prescribed. Some doctors also prescribe sleep aids.
Physical Therapy and Exercise: Physical therapy can help improve muscle strength and flexibility. Regular exercise, such as walking or yoga, can reduce pain and increase energy levels.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This helps patients change their thinking patterns and develop skills to manage stress, pain, and other symptoms.
Complementary Treatments: Some people find relief through treatments like acupuncture, massage, meditation, and heat or cold therapy.
Psychological Support: Psychological support, through individual therapy or support groups, helps manage emotional and psychological challenges.
Limitations: Medications can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain. Physical therapy may cause temporary muscle fatigue or pain. Cognitive-behavioral therapy might induce emotional stress. Complementary treatments vary in effectiveness and are not always covered by insurance. Individualized treatment from specialists is crucial for managing fibromyalgia effectively.
Innovative Stem Cell Therapy for Fibromyalgia: A Comprehensive Approach
At Immunotherapy Regenerative Medicine, we have developed a therapeutic protocol that incorporates advanced techniques and procedures to achieve promising results for fibromyalgia patients. This comprehensive approach focuses on tissue repair, inflammation modulation, and symptom alleviation.
- Stem Cell Therapy: Our treatment primarily uses mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which can transform into various cell types in the body. These cells release bioactive factors that modulate immune responses, promote tissue repair, and alleviate pain. The stem cells are combined with exosomes and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance their regenerative capabilities.
- Plasmapheresis: This extracorporeal cleansing procedure removes harmful molecules, including pro-inflammatory cytokines and pain mediators. By filtering these substances from the blood, we aim to reduce the clinical manifestations of fibromyalgia.
- Ozone Therapy: Administered intravenously or through local injections, this therapy uses a mixture of oxygen and ozone to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and increase tissue oxygenation. It helps reduce pain and boost energy levels.
- IV Therapy: Complementing our protocol, IV therapy delivers a combination of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, calcium, zinc, antioxidants, and amino acids. This supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and enhances overall well-being.\
Our multifaceted approach addresses the complex nature of fibromyalgia, offering a personalized treatment plan that targets the root causes of the disease and promotes long-term relief and improved quality of life for our patients.
Stem Cell Therapy For Fibromyalgia Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions About Stem Cell Treatment For Fibromyalgia
How Safe is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell therapy is considered safe when performed by qualified professionals. Our clinic uses mesenchymal stem cells cultivated in our own laboratory, ensuring high viability and safety.
How Soon Can I Expect Results?
Patients often notice improvements within a few weeks, with continued benefits over several months as the treatment progresses.
Can the Treatment Be Repeated?
Yes, stem cell therapy can be repeated if necessary. Our specialists will determine the appropriate frequency based on individual needs.
How is the Treatment Personalized?
Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific condition, symptoms, and overall health to ensure optimal outcomes.
Reserve Your Appointment Now
Contact Immunotherapy Regenerative Medicine today to schedule your consultation and explore how stem cell therapy can help manage fibromyalgia and improve your quality of life.
