[Integrative medicine, naturopathic and complementary medicine in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome : An overview against the background of clinical experiences from routine treatment].

Fibromyalgia syndrome causes chronic widespread pain, poor sleep, and physical or mental exhaustion that can significantly impact daily life. German researchers reviewed treatment approaches based on clinical experience and established medical guidelines, finding that the best results come from combining multiple therapies rather than relying on a single treatment. For fibromyalgia patients, medical guidelines strongly recommend regular exercise including endurance training, strength training, and functional movement. Meditative movement practices like yoga and qigong are also beneficial. Heat therapies play an important role and can include warm baths, saunas, infrared cabins, or exercising in warm thermal water. Newer research is exploring whole-body hyperthermia treatments. Self-care strategies that patients can use at home include dry brushing (a technique developed by Sebastian Kneipp), and massages using rosemary oil, mallow oil, or arnica-based pain oils. For sleep problems, herbal remedies like valerian, lavender oil capsules, and lemon balm may help, while herbal pain treatments include ash bark, aspen bark, and goldenrod. Acupuncture treatment, whether using ear points or body points, is recognized as an acceptable part of a comprehensive treatment plan for fibromyalgia. The review emphasizes that addressing lifestyle factors like physical inactivity and excess weight through nutrition therapy is important, and the central goal is helping patients rediscover their own ability to manage symptoms effectively. Patients interested in acupuncture for fibromyalgia should seek a qualified, licensed acupuncturist experienced in treating chronic pain conditions.

This German overview examines integrative and naturopathic approaches for fibromyalgia syndrome within the context of S3 guideline recommendations and clinical experience at the Clinic for Integrative Medicine and Naturopathy in Bamberg. The article emphasizes multimodal treatment for severe cases, with strong consensus recommendations for endurance, strength, and functional training, plus meditative movement (yoga, qigong). Heat applications are guideline-concordant, including thermotherapy and whole-body hyperthermia using water-filtered infrared-A radiation as an emerging research area. Phytotherapeutic options include ash bark/aspen bark/goldenrod for pain management, and valerian/lavender/lemon balm for sleep disorders. Acupuncture (auricular or body) is accepted within multimodal protocols. Self-care strategies include Kneipp hydrotherapy, topical applications with rosemary, mallow, or Aconite oils. Treatment addresses lifestyle factors including physical inactivity and obesity through nutrition and order therapy. The central therapeutic aim emphasizes activating patient self-efficacy. The clinic provides inpatient, day clinic, and outpatient formats covered by German health insurance.