John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

The two most common chronic muscle problems are Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) and Fibromyalgia (FM). Both FM and PMR are autoimmune diseases and result in muscle pain but that is about where the similarities stop.

PMR mostly affects those over 60 and common symptoms are stiffness and pain commonly around the neck and shoulders especially in the mornings. Around 20% of people with PMR also develop Temporal Arteritis. This is caused inflammation of the major arteries which pass through the temple causing vision problems and even blindness.

The major medical therapy is the steroid prednisone which blocks the production of inflammatory cytokines usually with a rapid reduction in symptoms. Many recover in a year or so but others have this for an extended period or find that it recurs after a period of remission. People on statin medicines need to be aware that these can exacerbate PMR symptoms which is why I invariably add CoQ10 to those with PMR who take statins.

Nutritional therapy complements the effects of prednisone by reducing immune system production of inflammatory chemicals. We add a wide range of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds to assist energy production and to lower inflammation. Serious fatigue is a feature of PMR and increases in energy is often the first benefit people feel from nutritional therapy.

FM is a lot more complex. These are often referred to as FM syndromes as they involve other problems especially Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There are relatively few medical treatment options but the most common are tri-cyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline taken in single evening doses to treat both pain and insomnia.

FM is more difficult to treat with nutritional therapy as it is not a simple inflammatory problem. It appears that muscle mitochondria are damaged by free radicals which impair muscle fibre function which reduces energy and causes pain (M. Cordero et al, 2010). I have found people get real benefits from intensive multi-antioxidant therapy including CoQ10, OPC, resveratrol and many others. I always add broad spectrum vitamin and minerals and often high dose MSM before bed to help with muscle oxygenation. Curiously, as with PMR people with FM often notice an improvement in energy before any reduction in pain. Give me a call if you need help. To join my weekly newsletter go to www.johnarts.co.nz and visit www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is the founder of Abundant Health. To contact John phone (local) 5789051 or 0800 423 559.