Fibromyalgia Treatment
Fibromyalgia affects over 500,000 Canadians with widespread pain, fatigue and cognitive difficulties. We offer comprehensive naturopathic care including IV nutrient therapy to help manage your symptoms and improve quality of life.
of Canadians affected
more common in women
use complementary therapies
annual healthcare costs per patient
Understanding Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties ("fibro fog") and mood changes. While routine laboratory tests and imaging are typically normal, the suffering is very real.
The Canadian Guidelines for Fibromyalgia emphasize that ideal management addresses the combination of symptoms present, with non-pharmacological strategies as a foundation. This aligns well with a naturopathic approach that looks at the whole person.
Common Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Primary Symptoms
- Widespread pain (present for 3+ months)
- Fatigue and low energy
- Non-restorative sleep
- Cognitive dysfunction ("fibro fog")
Associated Symptoms
- Headaches and migraines
- Anxiety and depression
- Digestive issues (IBS symptoms)
- Sensitivity to temperature, light, sound
Myers' Cocktail for Fibromyalgia
The Myers' Cocktail is an intravenous infusion of B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium and calcium that has been used to treat fibromyalgia for decades. Dr. Alan Gaby, who pioneered the use of this therapy, found fibromyalgia to be among the conditions that "frequently responded" to treatment.1
A pilot study at Yale University found that fibromyalgia patients experienced relief with Myers' Cocktail infusions, with benefits possibly derived from the magnesium content. Research shows that fibromyalgia patients are often deficient in serum magnesium, and low magnesium is associated with increased fatigue and pain in fibromyalgia.2
In my clinical experience, patients with fibromyalgia may experience a decrease in fatigue and pain lasting 1-3 weeks after treatment, though individual results vary.
Why IV Therapy Works
Direct Delivery
Bypasses digestive absorption, delivering nutrients directly to cells
Higher Concentrations
Achieves blood levels impossible with oral supplements
Rapid Response
Many patients feel improvement within hours
Magnesium Benefits
IV magnesium has been shown to help pain in multiple conditions
Comprehensive Fibromyalgia Care
IV therapy is one piece of a comprehensive approach. We also address other factors that may be contributing to or worsening your symptoms.
Testing
Rule out thyroid issues, nutrient deficiencies and other conditions that mimic or worsen fibromyalgia
Sleep Support
Non-restorative sleep worsens pain and fatigue. We address sleep quality with natural approaches
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduce systemic inflammation with diet strategies and targeted natural anti-inflammatories
Stress & Adrenals
Support the stress response system that is often dysregulated in fibromyalgia
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
We'll review your history, current symptoms, previous treatments and goals. We'll discuss which tests might be helpful and develop a treatment plan tailored to your situation.
Testing (If Indicated)
Based on your history, we may recommend thyroid testing, nutrient status, adrenal function or other assessments to identify contributing factors.
IV Therapy
If appropriate, we'll begin Myers' Cocktail treatments. Each infusion takes 30-45 minutes. Many patients feel improvement within hours: decreased pain, increased energy, better mental clarity.
Ongoing Support
We'll work with you to find the optimal treatment frequency and address other aspects of your health. Most fibromyalgia patients do best with regular IV treatments combined with other supportive strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often will I need IV treatments?
This varies by individual. Some patients do well with weekly treatments initially, then reduce to every 2-4 weeks for maintenance. Others come in as needed when symptoms flare. We'll work with you to find the frequency that provides the best benefit for your situation.
Can IV therapy replace my medications?
IV therapy is complementary, not a replacement for medications prescribed by your doctor. Some patients find they can reduce medications over time as symptoms improve, but this should always be done in consultation with your prescribing physician. Never stop or reduce medications without medical guidance.
Is there a cure for fibromyalgia?
There is currently no cure for fibromyalgia. However, many patients achieve significant improvement in pain, energy and quality of life with comprehensive treatment. Our goal is to help you manage symptoms effectively and improve your daily function.
What if I also have chronic fatigue syndrome?
Fibromyalgia and ME/CFS frequently overlap and share many features. The good news is that our approach (IV therapy, testing and comprehensive support) addresses both conditions. We'll tailor your treatment plan to address your specific combination of symptoms.
Will I feel worse before I feel better?
Many patients report feeling better after IV treatments rather than worse. Some may experience mild fatigue the day of treatment (from the relaxation response), but this typically gives way to improved energy over the following days. We start gently and adjust based on your response.
Ready to Take Control of Your Fibromyalgia?
Living with fibromyalgia is challenging, but you don't have to face it alone. Let's work together to reduce your pain, improve your energy and enhance your quality of life.
Book OnlineReferences
- Gaby AR. Intravenous nutrient therapy: the "Myers' cocktail". Altern Med Rev. 2002;7(5):389-403.
- Ali A, Njike VY, Northrup V, et al. Intravenous micronutrient therapy (Myers' Cocktail) for fibromyalgia: a placebo-controlled pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(3):247-57.
- Fitzcharles MA, Ste-Marie PA, Goldenberg DL, et al. 2012 Canadian Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of fibromyalgia syndrome. Pain Res Manag. 2013;18(3):119-26.
- Arthritis Society Canada. Fibromyalgia. 2024.