Positive Health Online

Abstract

SARAC and GUR, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medical Faculty, Dicle University, 21280 Diyarbakir, Turkey, have reviewed (123 references) CAM therapies for fibromyalgia.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to review studies that have been performed evaluating complementary or alternative medical  therapies for efficacy and adverse events in fibromyalgia. There is no permanent cure for fibromyalgia; therefore, adequate symptom control should be the goal of treatment. Clinicians can choose from a variety of pharmacological and non-pharmacological modalities. Unfortunately, controlled studies of most current treatments have failed to demonstrate sustained, clinically significant responses. CAM has gained increasing popularity, particularly among individuals with fibromyalgia for which traditional medicine has generally been ineffective. Some herbal and nutritional supplements (magnesium, S-adenosylmethionine) and massage therapy have the best evidence for effectiveness. Other therapies such as chlorella, biofeedback, and relaxation have either been evaluated in only one randomised controlled trial with positive results, in multiple trials with mixed results (magnet therapies) or have positive results from studies with methodological flaws (Homeopathy, Botanical Oils, Balneotherapy, Anthocyanidins and Dietary modifications). Chiropractic has neither well-designed studies nor positive results and is not currently recommended for fibromyalgia treatment. Once CAM therapies have been better evaluated for safety and long-term efficacy in randomised, placebo-controlled trials, they may prove to be beneficial in the treatment of fibromyalgia.

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References

Sarac AJ, Gur A. Complementary and alternative medical therapies in fibromyalgia. Current Pharmaceutical Design 12 (1): 47-57, 2006.