Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) for Fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, and Migraine

CVS COENZYME Q10 Softgel 100mg

“Coenzyme Q10 is a natural compound produced by the body… On a cellular chemistry level, this antioxidant helps convert food into energy.” 
- Cooper and Miller, 2010 




CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is a fat-soluble supplement that is believed to help with many things from heart failure to cancer. But, for this post we will focus on how it might help fibromyalgia, ME/CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), migraine, and related symptoms.

Effects of CoQ10 on Gene Expression and Human Cell Signaling

CoQ10 affects expression of genes in mice, and gene expression in human cell signaling,   metabolism and transport. It is thought that the effects of CoQ10 supplementation may be due to this property.

The Mitochondria and CoQ10

“In order to understand how CoQ10 works, it is first necessary to understand mitochondria.  Imagine that each cell in your body is a car. Mitochondria are the engines – or energy producers – in each cell that make your “car” run. It is the job of the mitochondria to supply this energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This is where CoQ10 comes in. To continue the car analogy, it is the oil that enables the engine to work. [It] is the catalyst that makes it possible for the mitochondria to produce ATP, the molecule upon which all cellular functions in the body depend.” 

- Karen Richards, Prohealth 

Coenzyme Q10 is essential to the functioning of the cells in our body, and deficiency has been related to several serious health consequences. This does not mean it comes without precautions and side effects, or drug interactions.  So, if you decide to try it, please make sure your doctor and pharmacist have a complete list of all your medications and all the over-the-counter supplements and remedies you use. You can review tips for medication safety on my website.

Could CoQ10 Help Fibromyalgia and ME/CFS? 

According to the Mayo Clinic, early study suggests CoQ10 may be helpful for fibromyalgia and related symptoms of dry mouth, muscle weakness and dystrophies, nerve pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

One study on mitochondrial dysfunction shows that CoQ10 could help. Interestingly, in this study IL-8 (a proinflammatory cytokine) was elevated. This was also found in another study relating neuroinflammation to heart rate variability (an autonomic effect) in fibromyalgia. This begs the question,

“Could coQ10 also help fibromyalgia patients 

with autonomic nervous system involvement?"

“It is argued that mitochondrial dysfunctions, e.g. lowered ATP production, may play a role in the onset of ME/cfs symptoms, e.g. fatigue and post exertional malaise, and may explain in part the central metabolic abnormalities observed in ME/cfs, e.g. glucose hypometabolism and cerebral hypoperfusion.”  (Morris and Maes, 2014.)  Though further trials are suggested, it was found in another study that CoQ10 along with NADH, might be beneficial in treating ME/CFS. The results of another study showed “lowered levels of CoQ10 play a role in the pathophysiology of ME/CFS and that symptoms, such as fatigue, and autonomic and neurocognitive symptoms may be caused by CoQ10 depletion.”  

Mitchondria, CoQ10 and Migraine

In a literature review published in the journal Headache (Markley, 2012), it was concluded,

"Arising from these extensive neurophysiological studies, the treatment of metabolic encephalomyopathies with pharmacological doses of riboflavin and coenzyme Q10 has shown positive benefits. The same treatment has now been applied to migraine, adding clinical support to the theory that migraine is a mitochondrial disorder.”

According to a Health Central Clinician,  CoQ10 is showing promise for preventing migraine. Research was presented at an American Headache Society meeting, showing 300 mg per day to be effective. It is also reported that gel capsules are absorbed and utilized best by the body. 

Taking CoQ10

As with all supplements, CoQ10 is not regulated by the FDA, so please check the manufacturers safety and purity standards.  You can check to make sure it is USP verified. 

Coenzyme Q10 should not be taken on an empty stomach because it will reduce absorption. It is absorbed best when taken with foods that have fat, such as olive oil (a healthy choice) because it is fat-soluble. Taking it in smaller doses several times a day will help maintain the level circulating in your body and provide the greatest benefit. 

While CoQ10 is relatively safe, as we age, so does our metabolism and our production of CoQ10. What is a recommended dose for one person might not be so for another, that’s why having the guidance of your physician is important.  If you experience common side effects, talk it over with your doctor, it could be you need to start with a lower dose. 

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"Adversity is only an obstacle if we fail to see opportunity."  

Celeste Cooper, RN

Author—Patient—Health Central Chronic Pain Pro —Advocate

NEW Website: http://CelesteCooper.com

Learn more about what you can do to help your body function to its potential in the books you can find here on Celeste's  blog. 

All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

ME/CFS Advocates Making a Difference: Giving Thanks, Celeste Cooper

It’s time to say thank you. Advocates work tirelessly to change the perceptions of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).

According to the CDC, more than one million Americans have ME/CFS, I happen to be one of them. And while my own advocacy focuses on fibromyalgia and chronic pain, and I write articles on chronic pain for Health Central,  I must support those who carry the torch for ME/CFS. There are correlations between ME/CFS and fibromyalgia, and many of us have been diagnosed with both. Maybe incorrectly, I don’t know. They do share underlying immunological changes, even if chemokines and other neuroimmune markers differ between the two of them. Who knows, maybe having a better understanding of ME/CFS will provide information so we can grasp what is happening with other invisible illnesses. We won’t know any of this without research. This is what our advocates know.

Voices Constantly Running in the Background 

As an RN, I am a member of Medscape, which is an organization for continuing education for physicians and nurses. I receive notification of CME and CEU programs and article updates. For the first time, I am seeing articles on the views of important game players, such as Dr. Komaroff.  There is a drive to educate physicians and nurses on ME/CFS as a biological illness. This wouldn’t be happening without the voices that are constantly running in the background.




Gratitude is Motivating

Many donate their time and talent. But, even if some are paid, money isn’t their driving force; it is passion for the cause. Our words of gratitude motivate them. I know this because of my own advocacy for fibromyalgia and chronic pain. So, please tell them thank you!

If I single out any particular person or group, it is only because I have personal communication with them. It by no means says there aren’t others doing the same for us. You may know someone different than I do who is making a huge impact. Show your support by telling them thank you on Facebook, Google+, or Twitter.


In alphabetical order:

Jeannette Burmeister Attorney,  ME activist, and blogger.
On Twitter

Health Rising.  Cort Johnson interprets research and collaborates with many people to improve education and awareness. Health Rising now has forums for ME/CFS and fibromyalgia.
On Twitter

The Massachusetts CFIDS/ME&FM Association.  Their mission is “To improve the lives of all people affected by ME/CFS and FM, advancing awareness, care, treatment and research.”
On Facebook – CFS Solutions

ME-CFS Community.   A world-wide community for individuals who wish to learn from, and directly communicate with those who are afflicted with ME/CFS.

Open Medicine Foundation. Supporting research and patient engagement for treatments and a cure for Neuro-Immune Diseases
On Twitter

P.A.N.D. O.R.A  Seeking to alleviate the suffering caused by neuro-endocrine-immune diseases, including ME/CFS, fibromyalgia syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivities / environmental illnesses, chronic Lyme disease and Gulf War illnesses.
On Facebook

ProHealth. Educating patients and providers to improve treatment and awareness, and donating 10% of profits to fund research and patient advocacy. Founder Rich Carson  provides forums on ME/CFS, FM, Lyme’s Disease. and general health, and topic related collaborative news and information on ME/CFS,  fibromyalgia,  and natural wellness.
On Twitter

Jennie Spotila’s blog, Occupy CFS.  Jennie’s legal savvy holds people accountable.
On Twitter

Our advocates are making a difference. 

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"Adversity is only an obstacle if we fail to see opportunity."  

Celeste Cooper, RN

Author—Patient—Health Central Chronic Pain Pro —Advocate

NEW Website: http://CelesteCooper.com

Learn more about what you can do to help your body function to its potential in the books you can find here on Celeste's  blog. 

All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

May Awareness: Sharing Our Spoons by Celeste Cooper

Moving into the Month Of Spoonies

Did you know?

• Those who learn to live despite chronic illness or pain are called spoonies.
• May is awareness month for:

• Allergy
• Arthritis
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS, SEID)
• Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
• Fibromyalgia
•  Lyme’s Disease
•  Neuropathy
• Osteoporosis
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE, Lupus)

ALLERGY– The role in immune dysfunction

Allergy may be coexistent with or aggravate many conditions. “Allergy symptoms are in response to an abnormal neurotransmitter, specifically, histamine.” (Cooper and Miller, 2010) 

Take the Health Central “Allergy Quiz”. 

ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is an umbrella term for many disorders that affect our joints. The most common type is osteoarthritis. Research is advancing what we know of about osteoarthritis.

See Health Central article "Arthritis Awareness Month: More than 100 Types of Arthritis and Related Diseases" by Lisa Emrich, Follow me, Celeste Cooper, Chronic Pain Health Pro and other "Health Guides and Pros" who walk the talk. Ask questions, comment, share your story. 

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME (ME/CFS/SEID)

Advances have been made in understanding the biology of ME/CFS.  Love it or hate it, and there are reasons for concern, the Institute of Medicine proposes a name change that addresses the most common component, systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID). There is genuine concern that this name, while addressing a biological cause, may result in ignoring other biological changes that have been associated with ME/CFS. Many people educate and advocate for those of us with this dreadful disorder. You can find out who they are on my website here. 

EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME (EDS)

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a genetic disease with several types under its umbrella. Characterized by joint hypermobility, skin elasticity, and connective tissue fragility, this disease results from atypical (unusual) proteins are responsible for the fragility of collagen, which is the glue for our tissue. Some patients with EDS also have fibromyalgia or are susceptible for developing myofascial pain syndrome. Read on. 

FIBROMYALGIA (FM)

We are learning more about fibromyalgia. Several researchers believe they are close to finding biomarkers, but the stigma lives on because of those who hold tight to the in ill-conceived notion that fibromyalgia is a psychosomatic disorder. In light of more recent research, how and why remains a mystery to me. But, as I always say, there is opportunity in adversity.

It’s possible that finding the answer to FM will unlock our understanding of other chronic pain disorders associated with pain (pain that is amplified by our brain’s perception). I have written many blogs on fibromyalgia; check out the archived blogs to the right listed according to month.

LYME’S DISEASE

“Lyme disease is caused by the spirochete bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi. The infection is passed to humans by the bite of an infected tick carrying the microorganism. Symptoms include a “bull’s eye” rash at the site of the bite, malaise, fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Untreated Lyme disease can result in symptoms occurring months or years after the initial exposure and causing damage to the heart, joints, and nerves of infected individuals. Symptoms can imitate other diseases and can be misdiagnosed.” (Cooper and Miller, 2010)   

It is very sad to say, but despite overwhelming evidencethat Chronic Lyme’s Disease  exists, there are those who doubt it.

OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is diagnosed according to bone density tests. Poor bone density makes our bones fragile increasing fracture. A common complication of osteoporosis is hip fracture, and the mortality of hip fracture in the elderly is very high.  Watch a great overview of osteoporosis and prevention on Health Central. 

NEUROPATHY

“Neuropathy is any functional disturbance or pathological change in the peripheral nervous system; also used to denote nonspecific lesions, in contrast to inflammatory lesions.” (Cooper and Miller, 2010)

Neuropathy can be due to an array of medical conditions. It can also be idiopathic, meaning that the cause of symptoms is unknown. Read about neuropathic pain. 

SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS (SLE, Lupus)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is poorly understood and under researched. The cause is unknown. Often referred to as Lupus (not to be confused with discoid lupus), SLE affects predominately women, African Americans, Hispanics and Asians and is generally diagnosed between puberty and mid age. It is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes destruction of the body’s various connective tissues. Read on.  

You can learn more about Lupus in an article by Leslie Rott at Health Central, “Lupus is as Lupus Does”. 

BRINGING IN THE SPOONS

While we wait for such evidence, it is important to remember that regardless of our diagnosis, regardless of biomarkers, we are yet to find the cause or a cure for many immune or neuro-immune disorders. So, we must find ways to cope in a healthy way. You can find coping 

and management strategies on my website.

To all my fellow SPOONIES, thank you for sharing this journey. 

~ • ~ • ~ • ~ • ~ • ~

"Adversity is only an obstacle if we fail to see opportunity."  

Celeste Cooper, RN

Author—Patient—Health Central Chronic Pain Pro —Advocate—Sharecare Fibromyalgia Health Expert

NEW Website: http://CelesteCooper.com

Learn more about what you can do to help your body function to its potential in the books you can find here on Celeste's  blog. 

All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

Is sleep keeping you awake at night? Poor sleep in people with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome by Celeste Cooper

Dysfunctional sleep—something those of us with FM and CFS know only too well—no surprise—can cause agitation, phobia, sleep deprivation psychosis, headaches, cognitive deficit, problems with gait, weight problems, and it can affect our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health and weaken our body’s immune response. Though sleep dysfunction can be part of any chronic pain condition, its effects are prevalent in fibromyalgia (FM), and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Both disorders affect multiple body systems and have particular overlapping conditions of bruxism, severe headaches, and periodic limb movement, which are present or affected by sleep. Whether it is from sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, or disordered patterns, sleep disorders have a profound effect on our symptoms and  affect our daytime quality of life.

Researchers have been looking at sleep function in FM and ME/CFS disorders for decades. A subgroup of fibromyalgia patients also have restless leg syndrome (RLS). When RLS occurs during sleep, it is called periodic limb movement (PLM). Those of us who experience this phenomenon, PLM, are unaware until we are told by our bed partner or the disarray of our bed linens. It’s no wonder we don’t feel rested when we have been running a marathon all night. In these cases, and in the case of suspected sleep apnea or other issues mentioned previously, a sleep study is order to determine if there is something interfering with sleep that can be treated.

Poor sleep not only affects our mood, it also affects our body. When we don’t feel rested, we are less likely to move very far away from our recliner. But, not only do we need to move to help fibromyalgia muscle symptoms, we also need to move to improve the circulation of lymph. The lymph system, unlike blood vessels, relies solely on physical movement to catch cellular debris, waste and toxins in the filters, called nodes, and move it out of the body via the lymph system. If it is not functioning reliably, peripheral swelling occurs and our general health is affected.

Because both FM and CFS are thought to affect the nervous and immune systems and/or vice versa, it is important to address sleep issues so we can minimize other symptoms.. (See my last blog, Exercise and Fibro.)

Helpful strategies and aggravating comorbid or co-existing conditions are covered in IntegrativeTherapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain: TheMind-Body Connection.

Celeste’s other blogs related to sleep:

•  Don't Snooze? YouLose - Sleep Deprivation in Pain Disorders
• The Mystery of Sleep in Fibromyalgia and Chronic FatigueSyndrome
• Sleepoh sleep, where art thou? Could your fibromyalgia medications be causinginsomnia?
• SnoozeNews - The conundrum of sleep deprivation
• WakeUp Sleepy Head - Non-Restorative Sleep in FM and CFS

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Update as of April 2015

"Adversity is only an obstacle if we fail to see opportunity."  

Celeste Cooper, RN

Author—Patient—Health Central Chronic Pain Pro —Advocate

New Website

Celeste’s Website: http://CelesteCooper.com

Learn more about what you can do to help your body function to its potential in the books you can find here on Celeste's  blog. Subscribe to posts by using the information in the upper right hand corner or use the share buttons to share with others.

All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

Resources:

Civelek GM, Ciftkaya PO, Karatas M. Evaluation of restless legs syndrome in fibromyalgia syndrome: An analysis of quality of sleep and life. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2014 May 27. [Epub ahead of print]

Drake CL1, Vargas I, Roth T, Friedman NP.Quantitative Measures of Nocturnal Insomnia Symptoms Predict Greater Deficits Across Multiple Daytime Impairment Domains. Behav Sleep Med. 2014 Mar 11. [Epub ahead of print]

Ablin JN, Clauw DJ, Lyden AK, Ambrose K, Williams DA, Gracely RH, Glass JM. Effects of sleep restriction and exercise deprivation on somatic symptoms and mood in healthy adults. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2013 Nov-Dec;31(6 Suppl 79):S53-9. Epub 2013 Nov 15.

Kishi A, Togo F, Cook DB, Klapholz M, Yamamoto Y, Rapoport DM, Natelson BH.The effects of exercise on dynamic sleep morphology in healthy controls and patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Physiol Rep. 2013 Nov;1(6):e00152. doi: 10.1002/phy2.152. Epub 2013 Nov 13.

Light KC, White AT, Tadler S, Iacob E, Light AR. Genetics and Gene Expression Involving Stress and Distress Pathways in Fibromyalgia with and without Comorbid Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.  Pain Res Treat. 2012;2012:427869. Epub 2011 Sep 29.

Light AR, Bateman L, Jo D, Hughen RW, Vanhaitsma TA, White AT, Light KC. Gene expression alterations at baseline and following moderate exercise in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Syndrome. J Intern Med. 2011 May 26. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2011.02405.x. [Epub ahead of print]

McBeth J, Lacey RJ, Wilkie R. Predictors of new-onset widespread pain in older adults: Results from a population-based prospective cohort study in the UK. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2014.  66(3):757-767.

Prados G, Miró E, Martínez MP, Sánchez AI, López S, Sáez G. Fibromyalgia: gender differences and sleep-disordered breathing. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2013 Nov-Dec;31(6 Suppl 79):S102-10. Epub 2013 Dec 2.

Sivertsen B, Lallukka T, Salo P et al.  Insomnia as a risk factor for ill health: results from the large population-based prospective HUNT Study in Norway. J Sleep Res. 2013. [Oct 30 Epub ahead of print.]

Walking In Strength: Guest blog from a Spoonie Clarissa Shepherd

Fellow spoonie (see "Moving into the Month of Spoonie Awareness"), Clarissa Shepherd, has a unique talent for engaging "Fellow Travelers" with fibromyalgia and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome through her support group on Facebook. She encourages others to speak about their concerns through ongoing weekly topics of "Sharing, Caring, Grateful, and Did Wells." Following is a note she has written to those who walk this path together.

I thank my friend for allowing me to share her intimate thoughts, words of encouragement, and recognition of all our Fellow Travelers.

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For those of us who face chronic illness each day, thinking positive is not an easy task. We don't seek negativity; it finds us. Despite its efforts to interfere, we can still find ways to deal with the up's and down's imposed by chronic illness. I [Clarissa] feel we do a grand job enduring and surviving in spite of the long list of daunting symptoms.

Our journey may be very difficult, long, and tiresome, yet each of you does it with such grace, grace as I've never seen before. Learning to live within our limitations and think creatively is a positive thing. Despite your symptoms, you find ways to rearrange your life in order to live it. I find each of you amazing for embracing change, for finding ways to accomplish daily tasks and entertain yourself. You uncover your hidden talents and discover new ways to embrace change. You're learning an entirely new way of living, a new way of thinking, you've learned how to rethink what productive means to you as individuals and redefine healing, and you are doing it soulfully. With forward momentum, you find ways to accept challenge. You are courageous.

You are a vital human being. This illness is not of your own making. It does not define you. You show your strength and courage with each breath you take every obstacle you overcome; you are fearless, even in your pain.

Now, I want you to take this truth into each day. Allow it to cover your entire being. There will be those in your life that don't, or won't, understand what you face each day. Chronic illness has taught me one very important thing: some people will fill you up, while others will drain you, so choose wisely. 

Know the reality that you are wonderful just as you are. You have a type of bravery that's seldom seen. I see it - I know it's there. Now, believe it for yourself. The strength you show is who you are; it is in you, beside you, and in front of you. Know this and allow the light that's shining guide you, hold you, and sustain you. I applaud the person you are, for you are the description of courage. 

Clarissa Shepherd is founder of the Facebook group Fellow Travelers. She provides support to people living with FM and ME/CFS and she is author of Find Your Way: A Guide to Healing While Living with Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome and Fibromyalgia.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) by Celeste Cooper

I was recently asked about three supplements specifically. Going with my rule, "If one person has a question, someone else probably does too."  I will try to periodically post information on questions that have been asked.

From Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection. by Celeste Cooper, RN and Jeffrey Miller, PhD. 434 pages (8 ½ X 11). Vermont: Healing Arts Press, 2010.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 is a natural compound produced by the body. In addition to a staggering number of proposed benefits, there are anecdotal reports that it helps with brain fog.

On a cellular chemistry level, this antioxidant helps convert food into energy. Doctors who emphasize nutritional complementary medicine believe that supplemental use of CoQ10 may play a role in keeping cholesterol lowering statin drugs from depleting natural CoQ10. Studies are underway regarding its effect as a supplement and its usefulness in tandem with cholesterol lowering drugs.

A recent study suggests that both vitamin E and CoQ10 could improve free radical ability to clean and protect basic cellular oxidative reactions. Such reactions include the process that makes energy in food available for cellular metabolism.51 Beneficial effects, prolonged use, and appropriate dosing are questions that still need to be answered.

51. R. Staud and M. Spaeth, “Psychophysical and neurochemical abnormalities of pain processing in fibromyalgia,” CNS Spectrums 13, no. 3, suppl. no. 5 (2008): 12–17.

Available from publisher:

INNER TRADITIONS, Bear and Company here.

Also available at all major outlets.

Amazon here.

Barnes and Nobel here.

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All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

Celeste Cooper is a retired RN, educator, fibromyalgia patient, and lead author of the Broken Body Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See Saw of Chronic Pain devotional series (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD), and Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD) She is a fibromyalgia expert for Dr. Oz, et al., at Sharecare.com, here, and she advocates for all chronic pain patients as a participant in the Pain Action Alliance to Implement a National Strategy, here. You can read more educational information and about her books on her website, http://TheseThree.com

Is there a therapy for you? The role of treatments in chronic pain by Celeste Cooper

Body-work is important to the health of muscles that are dysfunctional, such as seen in myofascial pain syndrome. Myofascial pain syndrome  (MPS) is thought by many experts to be a main peripheral pain generator in most chronic pain conditions.  Chronic myofascial pain from sustained, untreated, or undertreated myofascial trigger points (knotted up pieces of muscle fiber that can be easily felt unless the muscle involved is too tight, too deep, or behind bone) is thought to be kept in perpetuity by the metabolic and autonomic effects of both FM and ME/CFS, meaning it makes treatment more difficult to sustain than it does in other patient populations.

Until myofascial trigger points are treated and muscle fiber is returned to its normal resting length, a sustained hold of the muscles involved, whether it be through Yoga or prescribed by a physical therapist, will not only discondition the muscle, it can create more pain and further development of MTrPs.  This is because the muscle has already reached its maximal capacity of stretch when trigger points are involved. More pain and dysfunction should not be the goal of therapies, but some do not realize they are doing more harm than good because they do not understand the pathophysiology behind trigger points. These same recommended therapies are helpful on down the road AFTER the muscle is returned to its normal state. We must educate those who treat us. We talk more about this in the next edition of Broken Body Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See-Saw of Chronic Pain, Spring Devotions, and our BIG book (here)  is devoted to understanding the role of chronic myofascial pain from trigger points in both FM and ME/CFS.  

Optimally, we need someone standing beside us using trigger point pressure and stroking the MTrPs as we move the muscle through its range of motion in order to coax the muscle back to its normal resting length. This is the theory behind Active Release Therapy, and though MTrPs are not addressed specifically in Feldenkrais Movement Therapy,  Alexander Technique, and Craniosacral Therapy, these therapies do help with restrictions found in skeletal muscle and connective tissue.  Spray and Stretch, Myofascial Release, and Myofascial Trigger Point Therapies are massage-like therapies .  

Addressing perpetuating factors with body work is done in Ashton Patterning, and Trager Work and an important part of prevention. Therapies for addressing the mechanical and emotional aspects of body-work are Hellerwork, T'ai Chi, Yoga, and Rosen Method.  The success or failure of each therapy is dependent upon patient dedication, education, and a therapist who is skilled in communicating with our body.  

All these therapies, including self treatment, are discussed at length in Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain and throughout the Broken Body, Wounded Spirit series. Read more about the books here. 

My New Year’s resolution is to educate others on the myofascial and its role in chronic pain. Many of these therapies are not covered by insurance. However,we have evidence based research to show that body-work treatments are more effective than medications and other invasive treatments in treatment of soft tissue dysfunction as the result of a musculoskeletal problem. We need  to move integrative therapies into mainstream. If we can convince Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance companies that therapies such as these are more cost effective, we have a chance.

For now, some of the therapies can be costly. Most of us with disabling chronic pain have limited financial resources, myself included. For this reason, I believe self care through the use of tennis balls, a Theracane, mechanical massagers, rolling pins, swim noodles, Yoga balls and practicing gentle movement and stretch therapies are good alternatives. 

You can find helpful links on my website here. 

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All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.

Celeste Cooper is a retired RN, educator, fibromyalgia patient, and lead author of the Broken Body Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See Saw of Chronic Pain devotional series (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD), and Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD) She is a fibromyalgia expert for Dr. Oz, et al., at Sharecare.com, here, and she advocates for all chronic pain patients as a participant in the Pain Action Alliance to Implement a National Strategy, here. You can read more educational information and about her books on her website, http://TheseThree.com

If I Have Seen Further: Looking back at 2013

"If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants."

--Isaac Newton

As most of you know, I am a patient with fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, and other chronic pain diseases.  I am also and RN, educator, author, and pain advocate.  The above quote is one of my favorites because it rings true for me. Without the support of the following people, I could not and would not do what I do.

Rich Carson, founder of ProHealth, and all the people there who do so much to advocate for Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome ( ME/CFS) and fibromyalgia, and all those who support my work as writer and blogger by sharing this information.

Jan Chambers, President and founder of the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic PainAssociation,  friend, and fellow participant in the Pain Action Alliance to Implement a National Strategy initiative.

Myra Christopher and all the people at the Pain Action Alliance to Implement aNational Strategy  initiative who share my passion for human rights and allow me to advocate with them by supporting what I do as author, and blogger.

Cort Johnson, ME/CFS and FM advocate who offers a wealth of information to our community through his blog Health Rising http://www.cortjohnson.org/ and supports spreading the word about our books.

Karen Richards, health expert at Health Central, fibromyalgia representative for ProHealth, and friend who began her journey as patient and co-founder of the NFA.

Sharecare, the online health information giant who allows me to advocate for fibromyalgia as one of their health experts.

DevinStarlanyl, author, friend and colleague in the myofascial pain and fibromyalgia world who keeps me updated on the latest research and supported me years ago with her tireless education on myofascial pain syndrome while writing our first book.

Dr. Kevin White, friend , colleague, and fellow author, physician, medical editor and blogger. 

The physicians and other healthcare providers and guest bloggers who have collaborated with me on research interpretation and interviews.

My medical and writer colleagues, and fellow advocates who support me and comment on posts at Linked-In. 

My friends and fellow group and page moderators on Facebook and Google+ who go above and beyond to offer support to the many people suffering with chronic pain, FM, ME/CFS, myofascial pain, CRPS/RSD, Lupus, Migraine, Lyme's Disease, Ankylosing Spondylitis, interstitial cystitis, arthritis and other painful condition, and to those who advocate for health promotion.

My friends and fellow patients who share the Relieving Pain in Kansas City, the PAINS-KC initiative. (Kansas City)

My friends and fellow patients at the East Valley Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group. (Phoenix)

All those who have endorsed our books with inside the cover reviews and those who help us spread the word and leave reviews on Amazon so that patients have tools to live their best life despite pain and disease.

And last but not least:

All my fellow Facebook and Google+ patients and patient advocates who suffer with various chronic pain disorders and illness.  THANK YOU for your comment and sharing of information in an effort to help the many people across the world who share this space with me.

If you are reading this, you know that affirmations are what get me through the day. I hope you will find strength by writing your own.

Adversity is only an obstacle when I fail to see the opportunity.

As I look back at 2013 with gratitude, love, and admiration for each of you, I can look ahead to the new year with hope and promise.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Sensitivities and Sensory Overload: A Guest Blog by Clarissa Shepherd

The holidays are a great time of celebration, but for many of us there can be obstacles to overcome at holiday gatherings.  Clarissa Shepherd has been kind enough to share her thoughts.

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Many of us with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are very sensitive to light, noise, too much movement, people talking, TV, household noises, crowds in stores or full waiting rooms in doctor’s offices, the loud speakers, music, odors: such as perfume, scented candles, or household chemicals.  Any one, or several such things, can cause nausea, heart palpitations, dizziness, or even make us feel as if we may faint. Sunlight can cause eye pain and the effects of flickering or reflecting light can also be difficult for us to handle. 

Studies have shown that being exposed to chemical or perfume odors can cause us to get emotional and even feel anger. It goes right to the part of the brain that controls many of our emotions. Too much overload, can also cause our adrenaline to begin pumping, and not stop until it is burned out. Our adrenal issue is what causes us to feel so jumpy and easily startled. Such depletion leaves us worn out from the entire experience.

When hit with too many things at one time, our brain can't absorb or sort through them and our brain actually glitches. This sends us into overload and brings on all our many symptoms simultaneously.

There's no wonder that going out, can be such a challenge. It’s overwhelming to our entire being. We go into the jungle, by doing simple everyday tasks. So keep this in mind and protect yourself when possible from such sensory overload, which can cause a complete crash.

Clarissa Shepherd founder and moderator of the Facebook group FELLOW TRAVELERS: Support and Chat ( FMS CFS/ME ) here. 

Celeste’s post comment:

I happen to have chronic sinusitis (one of the CFS lovely components), so odors don't bother me; I can’t smell them. However, I absolutely cannot take excessive noise such as more than one person talking to me at a time or loud repetitive type music. For these occasions I carry ear plugs with me. Sensory overload can be very distracting and even painful at times.

I want to thank Clarissa Shepherd for sharing her thoughts on this valuable topic. I am certain we have all adapted as best we can. I know if you have any helpful suggestions for ways to enjoy holiday festivities without feeling sensory overload, Clarissa would be more than happy to share them. 

Think adversity? See opportunity!

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All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

Celeste Cooper is a retired RN, educator, fibromyalgia patient, and lead author of the Broken Body Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See Saw of Chronic Pain devotional series (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD), and Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD) She is a fibromyalgia expert for Dr. Oz, et al., at Sharecare.com, here, and she advocates for all chronic pain patients as a participant in the Pain Action Alliance to Implement a National Strategy, here. You can read more educational information and about her books on her website, http://TheseThree.com

Reviews, availability, and information on Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection

Review from Goodreads, here. Tami Says:

Based upon my own personal experiences, I know that getting that Fibromyalgia and/or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome diagnosis is difficult. Saying that you hurt all over for no particular reason, that you just can’t seem to get out of bed each morning, that you could sleep for days and still be tired, or that you feel like you are thinking through several layers of cotton just tends to confuse most doctors. Even though there is nothing new about these conditions and there are a growing number of individuals suffering from them, few doctors know much about Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or Myofascial Pain. Diagnosis, even if your doctor believes you, can take months or even years. Then, once diagnosed, there is no set treatment options leaving us with the primary responsibility of finding options that ease our suffering. 

Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain is the book that I wish I could have been given when I started this journey. I highly recommend it to anyone who thinks they might have Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or Myofascial Pain. This multifunctional book will educate you while reminding you that you are not alone. 

Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain begins by explaining the similarities and differences between the three conditions. Many doctors and most of the literature tend to lump these together because the symptoms are very similar. Nonetheless, the root cause may not necessarily be the same which definitely suggests different treatment strategies. 

Next, the book tells us how to talk to our doctor. How to explain our symptoms: their location, the intensity and the duration, knowing our rights and when to find another doctor. This is important as after repeated testing and specialist visits, we all start to wonder if the pain is in our head. However, it is at this point that we need to stand up for ourselves and find appropriate healthcare specialists.

The final sections are for after the diagnosis. Things like finding support, educating yourself, and figuring out what treatment options might be useful to you. There are also some invaluable tips on living, getting through your day, reworking relationships, and understanding the emotional aspects of these conditions.

More about the book can be found here.  

Available at:

• Inner Traditions, Bear and Company, (Publisher, imprint Healing Arts Press) here.
• Amazon.com, here. 
•    Kindle, here.
• Barnes and Noble, here.
•    Nook Book, here. 
• Booktopia, here.
• Google Books, here.
• Simon and Schuster, here.
• Amazon UK, here.
• Amazon Canada, here.
• Amazon India (free shipping), here.
• Australian Amazon Associate (note: you will need to type in the book title), here.
• Alibris Books, here.
• ebay, here. 
• Abe Books, here.
• Kobo ebooks, here.

For many diseases in our world, we are finally learning the treatments using only allopathic or only homeopathic remedies are seldom the best approach in and of themselves. Much of the confusion has come from the polarized arguments of both sides attempting to defend their points of view, but like most truths the answers are often found in the middle ground, hence “integrative medicine.” I found this book, at 448 pages, to be very comprehensive and I highly recommend it for anyone searching for a balanced approach for the treatment of these diseases.

~Dhara Lemos, Lotus Guide

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Celeste Cooper is a retired RN, educator, fibromyalgia patient, and lead author of the Broken Body Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See Saw of Chronic Pain devotional series (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD), and Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD) She is a fibromyalgia expert for Dr. Oz, et al., at Sharecare.com, here, and she advocates for all chronic pain patients as a participant in the Pain Action Alliance to Implement a National Strategy, here. You can read more educational information and about her books on her website, http://TheseThree.com

Did you know? – Smoothies, health, and you by Celeste Cooper

When dealing with chronic pain issues, it is sometimes difficult to prepare meals, but here is a healthy breakfast or snack solution if you have a blender.

Ingredients:

Use fresh and/or frozen fruits and vegetables on hand. Keep in mind that for some an anti-inflammatory choice is a smart selection, particularly if you are subject to irritable bladder, GERD or other digestion problems, immune deficiencies or conditions that create inflammation.

Keep it balanced:

Protein powder (or if you are gluten intolerant, use the protein substitute of your choice.

Special considerations:

Apples are considered to be a low acidic fruit in their raw form. They are abundant in pectin, a natural substance that soothes the stomach and absorbs acid, so they are actually creating an alkaline environment when digested.  They are a great source of vitamin C, and have phosphorous, iron, antioxidants and flavanoids, and they are high in fiber. 

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Because apples are high in fiber, they are also a good choice for those of us who take medications that cause constipation or experience alternating constipative/diarrhea irritable bowel syndrome.

Tip! The peeling of an apple is important too, but it is also a great source of accumulated pesticides. Therefore, wash your apple (or other fruits and vegetables with edible peelings) by sprinkling on some baking soda, wet your hands and massage the apple, then rinse thoroughly.

Want to know more about flavanoids?  They are discussed in “Summer Devotions” and nutrition tracking is discussed in the “Fall Devotions” of Broken Body, Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See-Saw of Chronic Pain. Many tracking tools are included in Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain: the Mind-Body Connection. You can read more “About the Books” at http://TheseThree.com

Did you know?

Did you know that you can freeze a whole banana and use it later? Yes, it is true, and you can cut off what you need and easily remove the peeling. Not only do they add flavor, a banana also adds fiber, protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, manganese, magnesium, folate, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A, and iron. There is a reason they are considered as a baby’s first food.

Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, kale, red (my personal favorite) and green romaine lettuce, are packed with fiber and are a great source of vitamins and minerals.

The more colorful the better, because bright colors mean they are loaded with antioxidants, which fight cellular oxidative stress apparent in both fibromyalgia and CFS/ME.

Carrots are known as the eye health veggie. Raw carrots are loaded with fiber and a great source of thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, Folate, manganese, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium.

Tip! Cleaning vegetables with a weak vinegar solution will help fight any lingering bacteria.

If you have left over colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, etc., throw those in too. Any colorful fruit or vegetable that your body tolerates is a good choice.

*If you are sticking to a low acid forming diet, check to see if ingredients are “acid forming” foods. They can be acidic, but that does not mean they create an acidic environment in your body.  This topic is outside the source of this particular blog. 

I have found by using fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables it makes the smoothie like drinking a nutritious shake. Add water, milk, almond milk, soy milk, whichever you prefer, for the consistency you like and enjoy vitamins the old fashion way with a modern twist!

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All answers and blogs are based on the author's opinions and writing and are not meant to replace medical advice.  

Celeste Cooper is a retired RN, educator, fibromyalgia patient, and lead author of the Broken Body Wounded Spirit: Balancing the See Saw of Chronic Pain devotional series (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD), and Integrative Therapies for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myofascial Pain: The Mind-Body Connection (coauthor, Jeff Miller PhD) She is a fibromyalgia expert for Dr. Oz, et al., at Sharecare.com, here, and she advocates for all chronic pain patients as a participant in the Pain Action Alliance to Implement a National Strategy, here. You can read more educational information and about her books on her website, http://TheseThree.com