Fibromyalgia

Symptom fluctuations (flare-remission cycles) in fibromyalgia are very common due to the nature of the disease. Major triggers for flares include: ① a lack of 1 to 2 hours of sleep, ② sudden changes in temperature or exposure to cold, ③ overuse (too much activity) or a sudden decrease in activity, ④ emotional stress, and ⑤ infection or immune stimulation. During flares, maintaining low-intensity activity rather than complete rest is recommended; the so-called "pacing" strategy—a method of distributing energy evenly—is effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of flares. In Korean medicine, the fluctuations in symptoms of fibromyalgia are understood as a pattern where the re-invasion of harmful external energies and the inherent weakness of vital energy intersect. When the weather becomes cold and humid, external energies such as wind, cold, and moisture easily invade already weakened meridians, and overwork depletes remaining vital energy all at once, triggering a flare. At Dongjedang, we restore meridian circulation through immediate acupuncture and moxibustion treatment during flares. During the maintenance phase, we extend the flare cycle by consistently replenishing vital energy with herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution, alongside weekly maintenance treatment. We share an "emergency protocol" with patients to help them respond quickly without panicking when a flare occurs, enabling them to manage their condition themselves.