top of page

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia: How Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Pain, Fatigue, and Restore Balance

Updated: Oct 15

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia in Santa Monica | Natural Relief for Pain & Fatigue


Discover how acupuncture can help with fibromyalgia symptoms including chronic pain, fatigue, and poor sleep. Learn the science behind acupuncture’s effects and how it supports holistic healing at Acupunctury in Santa Monica.


Understanding Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and sensitivity to touch. Many people also experience cognitive symptoms often described as “fibro fog.” While the exact cause is still being studied, research suggests fibromyalgia involves central sensitization - a heightened response in the nervous system that amplifies pain signals. Hormonal imbalances, emotional stress, trauma, and immune dysregulation may also play a role. Because fibromyalgia affects the body and mind, an integrative approach - one that supports both physical and emotional well-being - is often the most effective.

Acupuncture Fibromyalgia awareness

How Acupuncture Can Help with Fibromyalgia

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fibromyalgia symptoms reflect an imbalance of Qi (vital energy) and stagnation in the meridians, leading to pain, fatigue, and tension. Acupuncture works to restore harmony and promote the smooth flow of Qi, calming the nervous system and easing areas of stagnation that cause discomfort.

Regular treatments help:

  • Release physical and emotional tension

  • Improve circulation and energy flow

  • Support restful sleep

  • Reduce pain and inflammation

  • Calm the Spirit (Shen), addressing stress and anxiety


From a Biomedical Perspective

Modern research suggests acupuncture helps fibromyalgia symptoms by:

  • Activating the body’s natural pain-relief systems (endorphins, serotonin, and norepinephrine)

  • Regulating pain signaling in the central nervous system

  • Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress

  • Improving sleep and mood through parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) activation


A 2019 clinical trial found that patients receiving true acupuncture (as opposed to sham acupuncture) reported significantly greater improvements in pain, sleep, and fatigue levels.Recent studies also show electroacupuncture may reduce neuroinflammation by downregulating inflammatory pathways such as TLR4, which are linked to chronic pain responses.


Common Benefits of Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia

  • Reduced muscle and joint pain

  • Improved energy and less fatigue

  • Calmer mood and reduced anxiety

  • Better sleep quality

  • Improved digestion and immune function

  • Greater sense of overall balance and resilience

Because acupuncture addresses both symptom relief and root imbalances, results tend to deepen with consistent treatments over several weeks.


What to Expect at Acupunctury

At Acupunctury in Santa Monica, treatments are fully customized to each individual. Your session may include:

  • Body acupuncture for pain and nervous system regulation

  • Ear (auricular) points for stress and sleep support

  • Gentle cupping or gua sha (if indicated) for muscle tension

  • LED light therapy to reduce inflammation and promote repair


Each session takes place in a quiet, calming environment - helping your body drop into a state of deep rest and recovery.


How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Most clients begin noticing changes within 3–5 sessions, though chronic conditions like fibromyalgia often benefit from weekly treatments for 6–10 weeks, followed by maintenance visits every few weeks or monthly.

Consistency helps retrain the nervous system and sustain improvements in pain, sleep, and mood.


Is Acupuncture Safe for Fibromyalgia?

Acupuncture is generally safe and well-tolerated when performed by a licensed practitioner. Side effects are minimal and may include slight soreness or mild fatigue after treatment - both signs that the body is adjusting.

If you’re managing medications or other therapies, your acupuncturist will collaborate to ensure everything works safely together.


Lifestyle Tips to Support Fibromyalgia Recovery

Gentle Movement: Try restorative yoga, tai chi, or walking outdoors.

Prioritize Sleep: Create a calm nighttime routine; avoid screens before bed. Nourish the Body: Eat warm, anti-inflammatory foods and stay hydrated.

Stress Reduction: Deep breathing, journaling, and acupuncture all help regulate the nervous system.


When to Consider Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia

If you’ve tried conventional treatments but still experience pain, poor sleep, or fatigue, acupuncture can provide a safe, natural complement. Many clients find it not only reduces symptoms - but also helps them feel more balanced, calm, and at home in their body again.


At Acupunctury in Santa Monica, treatments are designed to support whole-body healing - from pain management to nervous system regulation and emotional balance.


📞 Call/Text: (424) 252-1210

🌐 Website: www.acupuncturyla.com

🌐 Direct Booking Link: Acupunctury via JaneApp

📱 Instagram: @acupunctury

📍 Address: 1150 Yale St, Suite 10, Santa Monica, CA 90403



Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Each individual is unique, and acupuncture treatments are always tailored to the person’s specific needs. If you are experiencing a health concern, please consult a licensed healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of care.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page