Approach to Fibromyalgia and the Role of Phytotherapy in Treatment

Definition of FibromyalgiaFibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome characterized by chronic musculoskeletal pain.The main symptoms of this disease are muscle and joint stiffness, insomnia, fatigue, mood disorders, cognitive dysfunction, anxiety, depression, general sensitivity, and inability to adequately perform normal daily activities.FM is also associated with specific diseases such as infections, diabetes, rheumatic, psychiatric or neurological disorders.There are similarities with neuropathic pain in terms of clinical findings, pathophysiology and neuropharmacology.Although FM is not a musculoskeletal system disease, most of the symptoms occur in this system (1,2).It is known that hypersensitivity is observed in some anatomical areas called tender points in FM syndrome ABSTRACT Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic widespread pain accompanied by fatigue, poor sleep quality, and numerous accompanying conditions.Its prevalence worldwide is around 2.7%, and it is more common in women.Although its epidemiology and pathophysiology cannot be precisely explained, it is known that various factors coexist.Over the years, guidelines containing various criteria have been established for the diagnosis of the disease.The goal of treatment in FM is to improve the patient's quality of life and minimize symptoms as much as possible.The success of treatment in FM is limited.Many patients seek alternative treatment methods, including diet and lifestyle changes.Recently, medical nutritional therapies and phytotherapy products have been at the forefront of research in this area.Phytotherapy products can be added alone or in combination with other treatment methods and can enhance the success of treatment.In this article, the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic methods, pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods used in the treatment of FM syndrome will be discussed, and the most widely used phytotherapeutic products will be addressed.