Fibromyalgia treatment in Wokingham, Berkshire
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread pain, fatigue and a range of other symptoms that can significantly affect quality of life. At the Wokingham Therapy Clinic, our integrated team offers a holistic approach to managing fibromyalgia, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.
On this page
- About fibromyalgia
- Symptoms
- Causes and triggers
- How we treat fibromyalgia
- Research and evidence
- Self-help advice
- Our acupuncturist
1. About fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is thought to affect around 1 in 20 people in the UK, with women affected more often than men. It is a condition where the central nervous system processes pain signals abnormally, leading to amplified pain responses throughout the body. Because fibromyalgia involves multiple body systems, the most effective approach is usually one that combines several complementary strategies.
2. Symptoms
Fibromyalgia is associated with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary in intensity from day to day:
- Widespread musculoskeletal pain
- Tender points that are painful to pressure
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Unrefreshing sleep and insomnia
- Cognitive difficulties ("fibro fog") – problems with memory and concentration
- Morning stiffness
- Headaches and migraines
- Irritable bowel symptoms
- Heightened sensitivity to noise, light and temperature
- Low mood, anxiety and stress
3. Causes and triggers
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of:
- Genetic predisposition
- Physical or emotional trauma
- Viral illness
- Prolonged stress
- Surgery or injury
- Hormonal changes
4. How we treat fibromyalgia
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the most researched complementary therapies for fibromyalgia. It helps to modulate pain signals in the nervous system, reduce stress, improve sleep and alleviate fatigue. Many patients with fibromyalgia find acupuncture particularly helpful because it addresses multiple symptoms simultaneously.
Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicine can be tailored to your individual presentation, addressing underlying imbalances that contribute to pain, fatigue and digestive symptoms. Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto uses pharmaceutical-grade herbal granules, prescribed to your specific pattern.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
CBT has strong evidence for helping people with fibromyalgia manage pain, fatigue and the emotional impact of living with a chronic condition.
Counselling
Counselling provides a supportive space to explore the emotional toll of living with fibromyalgia, and to develop coping strategies.
Massage
Gentle massage can ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. For fibromyalgia, lighter techniques are generally preferred over deep tissue work.
Nutritional therapy
Nutritional therapy can help identify dietary factors that may be contributing to inflammation, fatigue and digestive symptoms.
5. Research and evidence
A Cochrane review on acupuncture for fibromyalgia concluded that acupuncture, particularly electroacupuncture, is likely to improve pain and stiffness in people with fibromyalgia, with benefits maintained for several months after treatment. The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) guidelines for fibromyalgia include acupuncture as a weakly recommended treatment and CBT as a first-line non-pharmacological intervention.
6. Self-help advice
- Establish a regular sleep routine – prioritise sleep hygiene
- Engage in gentle, regular exercise such as walking, swimming or tai chi
- Pace your activities to avoid boom-and-bust cycles
- Manage stress through meditation, breathing exercises or yoga
- Consider anti-inflammatory dietary changes
- Connect with support groups and others living with fibromyalgia
Our acupuncturist
Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto BM (Beijing), BSc (Hons) TCM, MBAcC, MRCHM
Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto has been practising acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for over 25 years. He is passionate about empowering people with the ancient knowledge of Chinese medicine through lifestyle and diet.
Dr (TCM) D'Alberto graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China – a full-time, five-year degree programme that included six months of clinical internship at two of the largest hospitals in Beijing.
Dr (TCM) D'Alberto practises acupuncture, moxibustion and cupping from his own acupuncture clinic in Wokingham. He is a member of the British Acupuncture Council and practises traditional Chinese acupuncture.
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