XV. Stress in Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia, and Fatigue

58. Dr. Fors, what about stress, does it play a role in chronic myofascial pain disorders and fibromyalgia?

Yes, it plays a big role, primarily through our sympathetic nervous system. Previously, we have discussed how toxins from "bad bugs" in our gut can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and create all kinds of symptoms: pain, stiffness, headaches, bowel discomfort, insomnia, and fatigue. You can see how these symptoms parallel fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, or just being "stressed-out." That's because these conditions involve the over stimulation of our sympathetic nervous system and adrenal gland.

When we meet up with a dangerous or emotionally stressful situation we have to be able "to fight to take flight," this is how we evolved to survive. The problem is our sympathetic nervous system can not tell the difference a saber tooth tiger chasing us, our boss yelling at us, or grid-lock on the freeway.

When our sympathetic nervous system reacts to the tiger we can more effectively run away, however we can not physically fight or run from our boss or commuting to work each day. So in these chronic situations we just stew in our own "sympathetic" juices, epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Chronic stress that can not be discharged by a "fight or flight" response causes many things: increased blood pressure, increase inflammation, increased muscle tension etc, etc. all the ills of our modern society. So its definitely connected to conditions of pain, inflammation, and stiffness, as in myofascial pain syndromes of the back and extremities, as well as Fibromyalgia.

59. So what can an individual do who has chronic myofascial pain and stress is a factor?

Well the best advice is to practice meditation of some sort. There are many good books on this subject so avail yourself to them. But there are nutraceuticals that can help an individual deal with these stress more effectively.

Adreset	Licorice Plus	Serenagen

If an individual is "stressed and tired" a good nutraceutical to help them along is Metagenics formula Adreset. The herbs in this quality formula help to support the adrenal gland, and is helpful for anyone dealing with chronic pain and fatigue. Usually it takes about one capsule twice daily.

If a person's stress levels have brought them to the breaking-point of sympathetic and adrenal exhaustion, it is very helpful to add a quality supplement with a concentrated extract of Licorice. This "burned out and exhausted" state can be helped with Metagenics Licorice Plus. It is an excellent formula that also contains the Ayurvedic herb Ashwagandha, a renowned herb for countering stress.

For those who are really anxious and wired the Metagenics formula Serenagen is an excellent choice to help calm them down. If you have a real problem feeling really wired and uptight try meditation but add two tablets three times daily of Serenagen.

Next: 7 Step Nutritional Approach