Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes muscle pain and fatigue. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, scientists estimate 5 million Americans over the age of 18 have fibromyalgia, with 80 to 90 percent of those diagnosed being women. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown and, because of this, many scientists are looking at possible connections to vitamin and mineral deficiencies -- such as a magnesium deficiency -- as a contributing factor to the disorder.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for more than 300 chemical reactions in order for your body to work properly. Magnesium is found in high fiber foods such as legumes, whole grains, vegetables, seeds and nuts. Magnesium is found in dairy products, meats, chocolate, coffee and hard water, or water with a high mineral content. According to MedlinePlus, magnesium is used to treat cardiac conditions, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine headaches, asthma, hay fever, restless leg syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a disorder marked by muscle pain and fatigue. It has distinct characteristics known as "tender points" that can be found in the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms and legs. These tender points cause pain when touched. Fibromyalgia can also cause symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances and a condition known as "fibro fog," which causes memory and cognitive issues. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown and there is no cure. A variety of medications can be used to treat symptoms. Fibromyalgia patients are usually under the care of numerous different specialty physicians and physical therapists.
Medical Research
Many different studies have looked at the possible connections between magnesium and fibromyalgia. A 2008 study published in "Rheumatology International" looked at the relationship between various trace elements, including magnesium, and fibromyalgia. The results showed that there was a decrease in serum magnesium in patients with fibromyalgia and the lower the levels, the more it appeared to be associated with the level of fatigue that patients experienced. A 2010 study published in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" looked at evaluating the efficacy of alternative treatments for patients with fibromyalgia. The research showed that magnesium, l-carnitine and S-adenosylmethionine showed potential for fibromyalgia treatment and that further research needed to be conducted.
Considerations
If you suffer from fibromyalgia, consider talking with your physician about having your magnesium levels evaluated. If it shows you are deficient, your physician will be able to recommend a supplemental treatment plan to bring your levels within optimal ranges and possible aid in the treatment of your fibromyalgia. Do not try to supplement magnesium without first consulting with your physician. Taking too much magnesium can lead to toxic levels, which can cause symptoms such as irregular heartbeats, low blood pressure, confusion, slowed breathing and coma. Magnesium supplements can also interact with different medications so you will need to make sure your physician is aware of everything you are taking.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases; Fibromyalgia; July 2009
- MedlinePlus: Magnesium
- MedlinePlus: Fibromyalgia
- "Rheumatology International"; The Relationship Between Serum Trace Element Levels and Clinical Parameters in Patients With Fibromyalgia; O.F. Sendur, et al.; September 2008
- "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; Alternative Medical Interventions Used in the Treatment and Management of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia; N.S. Porter, et al.; March 2010
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