Fibromyalgia is a chronic and often misunderstood condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction ("fibro fog"), and a host of other symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life. At Sheen Vein and Cosmetics in St. Louis, we approach fibromyalgia through a functional medicine lens—searching for the root causes rather than simply managing symptoms.

This blog explores what fibromyalgia is, what might cause it, and how an integrative and personalized plan can help you reclaim your health.

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 4 million adults in the United States. It's more common in women and often presents in mid-life, though it can affect men and younger individuals as well. Symptoms typically include:

• Widespread muscle and joint pain
• Persistent fatigue
• Nonrestorative sleep
• Cognitive issues (brain fog, poor memory, difficulty concentrating)
• Digestive problems (often IBS-like symptoms)
• Heightened sensitivity to touch, sound, and temperature

While fibromyalgia is not considered an autoimmune condition or inflammatory arthritis, it is often seen alongside those disorders—suggesting overlapping mechanisms involving the nervous system, immune function, and mitochondrial health.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is considered a “central sensitization syndrome,” meaning the nervous system becomes hypersensitive and amplifies pain signals. But why this happens can differ from person to person. At our clinic, we investigate the following root causes:

1. Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Mitochondria are the energy producers of every cell. When they don’t function properly, muscle fatigue, pain, and cognitive sluggishness can result. Mitochondrial support with supplements like CoQ10, magnesium, and PQQ often provides significant improvement.

2. Gut Imbalances

Many fibromyalgia patients experience symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Dysbiosis, leaky gut, or chronic candida overgrowth can create systemic inflammation and trigger neurologic symptoms. Learn more about the gut-immune-hormone connection.

3. Chronic Infections or Reactivations

Hidden infections such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Lyme disease, or mold exposure can be persistent triggers for fibromyalgia. Testing and treating these underlying infections can bring dramatic symptom relief.

4. Hormonal Imbalances

Many women report fibromyalgia symptoms worsening during perimenopause or after major hormonal shifts. Low cortisol, thyroid dysfunction, or low sex hormones can all contribute to fatigue and pain. Our approach often includes comprehensive hormone testing and natural support.

5. Sleep Dysfunction

Nonrestorative sleep is a hallmark of fibromyalgia. If your body isn’t able to enter deep, reparative stages of sleep, pain perception increases. We assess factors like melatonin production, cortisol rhythm, and nighttime oxygen levels (sleep apnea screening when appropriate).

Our Functional Medicine Approach in St. Louis

At Sheen Vein and Cosmetics, our fibromyalgia protocol is tailored to the individual—no cookie-cutter plans. Here’s how we begin:

1. Comprehensive Intake & Testing

We start with a deep-dive evaluation including advanced bloodwork, stool testing, hormone panels, toxin screenings, and functional assessments to understand what’s driving your symptoms.

2. Personalized Treatment Plan

Your plan may include:

• Mitochondrial support (CoQ10, NAD+, magnesium threonate)
• Anti-inflammatory nutrition plan (often gluten-free, low sugar, gut-healing foods)
• Detox support (binders, saunas, glutathione, red light therapy)
• Gentle movement therapy
• Targeted supplements to restore hormonal balance
• Natural sleep aids (melatonin, magnesium, glycine, PEMF therapy)

3. Lifestyle & Mind-Body Optimization

We integrate tools like grounding, breathing techniques, and gentle yoga to help rebalance the nervous system. Stress reduction is not optional—it’s essential.

Real Results Are Possible

Many of our St. Louis patients come to us after years of frustration with conventional approaches—being told “your labs are normal” or “it’s all in your head.” We understand that fibromyalgia is real, complex, and multifactorial. With the right support, patients often report:

• Decreased daily pain
• Increased energy
• Improved sleep
• Sharper cognition
• Renewed hope

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you're tired of managing symptoms and want to address the root cause of your fibromyalgia, we’re here to help. Our telemedicine services also make care accessible beyond St. Louis. Whether you're local or seeking a virtual consult, we're ready to support your journey.

📞 Call 314-842-1441 to schedule your consultation
💻 Or visit www.sheenveinandcosmetics.com to learn more about our functional medicine services

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