Fibromyalgia and gut: These findings may be a contributing factor
Last updated 19/02/2024 by The pain clinics - Interdisciplinary Health
Fibromyalgia and gut: These findings may be a contributing factor
This guide deals with fibromyalgia and the gut. Here we consider how certain findings in the intestinal flora seem to affect fibromyalgia.
A major research study has discovered specific changes in the gut flora in women with fibromyalgia – compared to those who are not affected. Many people with fibromyalgia will recognize that their stomachs can be very queasy at times. Which is also reflected in the fact that this patient group is more affected by IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Note that the study was done among women with fibromyalgia – not men. It may also be worth knowing these 7 symptoms that are characteristic of fibromyalgia in women.
- 19 different intestinal flora bacteria gave answers and indications
Canadian researchers at McGill University have identified a total of 19 different intestinal flora bacteria that stood out in those with fibromyalgia - and published these in the medical journal Bread.¹ One of the main researchers behind the study also stated that a clear correlation was seen between the strength of the symptoms and an increase or lack of certain of the intestinal flora bacteria. The researchers emphasize, however, that it is too early to see whether this is one of the causes of fibromyalgia or more a reaction to the disease itself. But they hope that follow-up studies will be able to provide further answers to this.
Fibromyalgia and the gut
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that can cause pain throughout the body - in combination with anxiety, sleep problems and irritable bowel syndrome. Stomach and bowel problems are much more common in this patient group compared to the regular population. Which has given a clear indication that there is a connection between fibromyalgia and the intestine.
- How big a role does the intestinal flora play?
If it turns out that the intestinal flora plays a central role in promoting or even causing fibromyalgia, then such a discovery could lead to a diagnosis being made significantly earlier - and, most likely, new treatment methods developed.
Your gut flora
Inside your gut there is an extensive and complex ecosystem. This consists of a large variety of bacteria, viruses, candida and other microscopic organisms that help you operate digestion and absorb nutrients. It is known that a functional intestinal flora plays a central role in maintaining good health - as confirmed in a number of research studies. So what happens when the gut flora doesn't play along? Well, researchers believe that many of the answers to fibromyalgia may lie in the altered bowel behavior that we write about in this article. It is well documented, among other things in systematic review studies, that patients with fibromyalgia have a higher risk of being affected by Irritable bowel.²
The study: 87% accuracy
The participants in the research study were divided into those who had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia versus a control group. All gave physical test samples in the form of urine samples, stool samples and saliva - in addition to going through a thorough history taking. The researchers then reviewed the clinical data from the samples and compared them with the healthy control group.
- Advanced computer models and artificial intelligence
The results were very interesting. It turned out that by going through the large amounts of information and using advanced computer models, including artificial intelligence, the test could estimate who had fibromyalgia with an accuracy of 87% - which is incredibly exciting. Could this be the start of an effective investigation for fibromyalgia? We hope so.
- The findings provide answers, but also questions
The study showed a clear relationship between symptoms of fibromyalgia and the increase or absence of certain gut flora bacteria. The greater the abnormal ratio - the more severe the symptoms. This included, among other things:
Cognitive Symptoms
pain intensity
pain Areas
sleep Problems
Exhaustion
The researchers emphasize that larger and more studies will be required to be able to conclude with 100% certainty. but this at least seems like a very good indication that they are on to something important in the field of diagnosing fibromyalgia. We have previously also written about how studies have documented an increased incidence of inflammatory reactions in the brain in fibromyalgia patients. It is also interesting to note that people with fibromyalgia is more often affected by plantar fasciitis (which is an injury and inflammatory reaction in the connective tissue plate under the heel).
Fibromyalgia and foods that reduce inflammation
In light of the important function of the intestinal flora above fibromyalgia, it is extra important to have a good, inflammatory-reducing diet. This also means that you reduce your intake of inflammatory foods, such as sugar and alcohol. We have previously written about how an anti-inflammatory diet with more easily digestible foods (low-FODMAP) can be beneficial for fibromyalgia patients (fibromyalgia diet). In addition, also see gluten appear to be able to have a pro-inflammatory effect for many in this patient group.
Fibromyalgia, inflammation and exercise
Exercising regularly with fibromyalgia can sometimes seem completely impossible. But it is important to find the forms of exercise that suit you. Not everyone can do heavy core exercises. Perhaps you have noticed, for example, that training in a warm water pool or relaxation exercises work better for you? We are all different and we must remember to take this into account. Previously, we have also written about how research believes that knitwear training is the best strength training for fibromyalgia patients. Further down you can see which training tights we recommend. All product recommendations open in a new browser window.
- Adapted exercises can be tried out
In the video below you will see an exercise program for those with fibromyalgia developed by chiropractor Alexander Andorff. This is a program of gentle exercises that help you keep essential muscles in your back and core active. It may not be suitable for everyone, but for the majority these can be good exercises.
Feel free to subscribe to our YouTube channel for free (click here) for free exercise tips, exercise programs and health knowledge. Welcome to the family you shall be.
Our recommendation: Try gentle exercises with pilates bands (150 cm)
As mentioned earlier, research has shown that elastic training can be a very suitable form of exercise for people with fibromyalgia. This is something we at the Vondtklinikkene Tverrfaglig Helse agree with. This is precisely why our physiotherapists like to put together customized exercise programs with elastic bands (both Pilates bands and mini bands) for our patients with fibromyalgia. You can read more about this recommended Pilates band here .
Tips: Mini band for hips and pelvis
A pilates band is best suited for training the shoulders and upper body. For elastic training aimed at the lower part of the body, including the knees, pelvis and hips, we recommend the use of minibands (as shown above). Here you can read more about our recommendation.
Summary: Fibromyalgia and the gut
As I said, it is well documented that fibromyalgia patients have a higher incidence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).² Therefore, it is also very interesting to hear about research studies that refer to specific findings in the intestinal flora of this patient group. Findings such as this also show how important it is with holistic treatment for fibromyalgia, which includes physical therapy, rehabilitation exercises, relaxation techniques and the right diet.
Holistic treatment of fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic and complicated pain syndrome. Therefore, it is not surprising that many people with such pain use too much painkillers. In order to get the best possible symptom relief for this patient group, it is important not only to "mask the pain", but also to do something about the reasons behind it. Among other things, we know that it is important to reduce pain signals and dissolve in pain-sensitive soft tissue for functional improvement and pain relief. Here, a physiotherapist or chiropractor can help with, among other things, massage techniques, stretching techniques (including traction treatment), laser therapy and intramuscular acupuncture (dry needling). At our departments at the Vondtklinikkene Tverrfaglig Helse, we adapt which treatment methods are used individually. This may include:
Laser Therapy
Joint Mobilization
Massage
Trigger point treatment (custom print)
Dry needle
To name just a few of the treatment modalities we use. You can see a complete overview of our clinics here . In addition to active treatment techniques, the patient will also receive specific rehabilitation exercises adapted to functional findings. If desired, we also have clinicians who offer help with dietary guidance.
Active self-help against fibromyalgia and chronic pain
Fibromyalgia is, as you know, a very complicated pain syndrome – and, characteristically, it causes widespread pain in different parts of the body. However, due to the high content of nerves and pain receptors, the neck and shoulder arches are often a major problem area for patients with fibromyalgia. And it is on this basis that one is happy to recommend relaxation in neck berth or acupressure mat. In addition to this, one can cervical head pillow with memory foam og pelvic floor pillow be beneficial for better sleep quality. Our product recommendations open in a new reader window.
Our recommendation: Relaxation in neck berth
En neck berth is often combined with relaxation and/or breathing techniques. As little as 10 minutes a day can have a significant, positive effect. This can reduce the stress level in the body, which in turn can be beneficial in the fight against inflammation and pain. Here you can read more about our recommendation.
Tips: Sleep with an ergonomic head pillow with bamboo memory foam
Studies have shown that head pillows with modern memory foam can provide better sleep quality and reduce breathing disorders, as well as lead to less sleep apnea.³ This is because such head pillows provide a better and more ergonomic position on the neck when sleeping. Read more about our product recommendation here (includes several variants).
Join us in the fight to raise awareness of invisible disease
Improved general understanding of fibromyalgia and other invisible diseases can provide better understanding, empathy and respect for this patient group. If desired, you can join our support group here on Facebook: «Rheumatism and Chronic Pain - Norway: Research and news» for updates and exciting articles. All involvement in the dissemination of knowledge is also incredibly appreciated. Every share and like in social media helps to spread the understanding of chronic pain and invisible illness. So thank you to everyone who joins and contributes - you really make a big and significant difference.
Research and sources: Fibromyalgia and the gut
1. Minerbi et al, 2019. Altered microbiome composition in individuals with fibromyalgia. Pain. 2019 Nov;160(11):2589-2602.
2. Erdrich et al, 2020. A systematic review of the association between fibromyalgia and functional gastrointestinal disorders. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2020 Dec 8:13:1756284820977402.
3. Stavrou et al, 2022. Memory Foam Pillow as an Intervention in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Preliminary Randomized Study. Front Med (Lausanne). 2022 Mar 9:9:842224.
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Article: Fibromyalgia and gut
Written by: Our publicly authorized chiropractors and physiotherapists at Vondtklinikkene
Fact check: Our articles are always based on serious sources, research studies and research journals - such as PubMed and the Cochrane Library. Please contact us if you spot any errors or have comments.
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