Fibromyalgia

The effectiveness of acupuncture for fibromyalgia has been confirmed through various clinical studies. In multiple meta-analyses, including a 2019 Cochrane review, the acupuncture treatment group showed significant improvements in pain intensity (VAS scores) and fatigue compared to the sham acupuncture control group. Regarding the mechanism, it has been confirmed that acupuncture stimulation promotes the secretion of endogenous opioids (endorphins and enkephanrins) and affects pain-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) guidelines also mention acupuncture as a complementary treatment for fibromyalgia. From the perspective of a Korean medicine clinic, acupuncture is a tool that directly resolves the stagnation of Qi in the meridians. The widespread tender points of fibromyalgia largely differ from the stimulation points surrounding the pain site in Korean medicine; applying acupuncture stimulation to these areas releases local fascial tension and restores meridian flow. At Dongjedang, we combine basic acupuncture with needle acupuncture to physically separate fascial adhesions, and add anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects using pharmacopuncture (such as bee venom acupuncture and Astragalus membranaceus). Systemically, we reinforce the foundation for Qi generation with herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution, ensuring that the treatment effect lasts longer. Rather than expecting dramatic changes in the short term, it is reasonable to evaluate changes after 3 to 4 weeks of treatment, with sessions held 2 to 3 times a week.