Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and multiple "tender points". These tender points refer to soreness that occurs in precise, localised areas, particularly in the neck, spine, shoulders and hips. People with this syndrome may also have sleep disturbances, morning stiffness and Irritable Bowel Syndrome, in addition to other symptoms. Although this syndrome mostly strikes women of child bearing age, children, the elderly and men can also be affected.

Like other similar ailments including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, Fibromyalgia was not taken seriously by many medical experts, who believed its origins were emotional or psychological, rather than physical. Recently, researchers at the University of Alabama have discovered that Fibromyalgia patients have less blood flowing to the areas of the brain that focus on pain. Others have suggested that there is a decreased blood flow through the muscles, leading to fatigue and decreased strength. In addition, they also have abnormally high amounts of Substance P, a chemical that relays pain messages throughout the cells in the central nervous system. These factors could explain why the symptoms of fibromyalgia include everything from sore joints and areas of the body that are tender when touched to fatigue, insomnia and irritable bowel syndrome.

Other theories include one which suggests that the syndrome can be brought on by injury or trauma, one that affects the central nervous system (CNS); another theory points to low levels of the liver-produced hormone, cortisol, in people with fibromyalgia.

The course of the syndrome is unpredictable. While some cases clear up on there own, others become chronic. Some sufferers can also go through cycles of flare-ups switching off with periods of apparent remission.

Diet and malabsorption difficulties are common in people with fibromyalgia, some practitioners recommend higher than normal doses of all supplemental nutrients, particularly sublingual versions. For these people, spray, liquids and gel supplements may also be absorbed better than traditional dry, pressed tablets.

There are a range of treatments which have been found to be beneficial for those who suffer from Fibromyalgia. A range of hormone supplements are thought to help which can include SAMe, DHEA and Human Growth Hormone. Some particularly beneficial minerals and vitamins include Magnesium, Phosphorus, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12. Certain herbs can also be very beneficial and include olive leaf extract, St Johns wort, Gingko biloba and Aloe Vera. Regular exercise is also very important for those who suffer from fibromyalgia as it strengthens neural pathways and increases circulation to the effected areas.

Fibromyalgia can have a great impact of the quality of life of many people however with education on the disease and a range of natural treatment options now available a person should be able to reduce the symptoms they experience and continue to enjoy the activities in their lives.

Ingredients:

• 375g tofu
• 2 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 kaffir lime leaf finely chopped
• 400gm button mushrooms, trimmed
• 200gm shitake mushrooms, dried
• 1/3 cup sweet chilli sauce
• 1/3 cup ketjap sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon water
• 8 spring onions, thinly sliced
• Steamed brown rice or rice noodles

Method:

1. Cube the tofu and place on baking paper.
2. Sprinkle with sweet chilli sauce and ketjap mains. Bake till the cubes turn dark brown and puff up slightly.
3. Soak the sliced shitake mushrooms in warm water till soft.
4. Heat the wok and add soy sauce and water
5. Add the ginger and chopped kaffir lime leaf and stir till aromatic.
6. Add the button and shitake mushrooms, cut the larger ones.
7. Add the sweet chilli sauce and spring onions.
8. Toss well until combined.
9. Serve immediately with rise or noodles.