Fibromyalgia

In cases of long-term chronic fibromyalgia, central sensitization may become more deeply entrenched, which can lead to a slower response to treatment. However, research results show that the correlation between the duration of the illness and treatment effectiveness is not always negative. On the contrary, long-term patients often have a better understanding of their bodies due to previous treatment experiences, resulting in better compliance with treatment, which can sometimes lead to positive outcomes. Managing realistic expectations—with the primary goals of a 50% reduction in pain, improved sleep, and a return to daily activities—helps maintain treatment consistency. From a Korean medicine perspective, fibromyalgia lasting over 10 years is viewed as a condition characterized by a long-standing deficiency of vital energy (Qi) and blood (Blood), coupled with deeply entrenched circulatory stagnation. In such cases, rather than expecting dramatic changes in the short term, a realistic approach involves building up gradual progress with the goal of achieving a 10% improvement every three months. At Dongjedang, we combine the resolution of deep myofascial adhesions via needle acupuncture with herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution, particularly for chronic patterns involving a combination of fundamental energy depletion and circulatory stagnation. While the initial two to three months may feel like a plateau, changes such as improved sleep and reduced fatigue will eventually appear as vital energy and blood are gradually replenished. Given the long duration of the condition, the key is to proceed slowly, yet without giving up.