What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a condition which involves widespread body and muscle pain, tenderness, fatigue and unrefreshed sleep, and is often associated with disability, depression and a general reduction in quality of life. It is a problem seen in millions of people around the world, affecting 10 million in the USA and 1.2-2.8 million in the UK (NFCPA 2020).
The condition is not completely understood, but it is thought to be the result of disordering changes to central pain processing pathways, which causes amplification of pain signals from all over the body (Marks 2015).
Global Impact
Affects 10 million people in the USA and 1.2-2.8 million in the UK, with significant quality of life implications worldwide.
"Living with fibromyalgia feels like battling invisible pain every day, with no clear cause or predictable relief."Testimony from a patient with fibromyalgia
Current Treatments
Fibromyalgia is commonly treated with oral medications and physical and psychological therapies. However, these methods do not always yield satisfactory results. Oral steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) provide little to no relief for most patients. Antidepressants are often prescribed as they can offer some pain relief, but they may cause adverse effects and carry a risk of dependency (Goldenberg, 1986; Clark, 1985; Crofford, 2001; Jaeschke, 1991; Burckhardt, 1992).
Treatment Challenges
Intravenous Lidocaine Infusion
Intravenous lidocaine infusion presents a promising alternative for patients who experience limited relief from conventional treatments. Lidocaine works by targeting sodium channels in the nervous system, effectively dampening the hyperactive pain signals characteristic of fibromyalgia. Additionally, lidocaine is thought to inhibit the release of interleukins from neutrophils—proteins responsible for triggering the body's inflammatory response. By reducing interleukin activity, lidocaine can help alleviate peripheral inflammation (Oliveira, 2010).
The treatment approach represents a significant advancement in fibromyalgia management, offering hope to patients who have struggled with traditional medications. Clinical studies have demonstrated that intravenous lidocaine can provide substantial pain relief that may last from several weeks to many months. This extended duration of relief distinguishes it from conventional pain medications that require daily administration and often lose effectiveness over time.
Research indicates that approximately 60% of patients experience a remarkable 70% reduction in pain levels following intravenous lidocaine infusion therapy. This significant improvement in pain management often translates to enhanced sleep quality, improved daily functioning, and a better overall quality of life. The treatment's effectiveness appears to be particularly pronounced in patients with widespread pain patterns typical of fibromyalgia.
How It Works
Sodium Channel Targeting
Dampens hyperactive pain signals in the nervous system
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Inhibits interleukin release, reducing inflammation
The Procedure
The intravenous lidocaine infusion is conducted under continuous monitoring, including ECG, blood pressure, and overall wellbeing. Patients remain conscious throughout the procedure, allowing for real-time communication and adjustments to the infusion rate.
Continuous Monitoring
Clinical Research & Evidence
Clinical research supporting intravenous lidocaine infusion for fibromyalgia has shown promising results across multiple studies. The mechanism of action involves sodium channel blockade, which reduces the hyperexcitability of pain pathways that characterise fibromyalgia. This neurobiological approach targets the underlying pathophysiology rather than merely masking symptoms, offering a more fundamental approach to pain management.
Studies have demonstrated that lidocaine infusion can significantly reduce the central sensitisation that drives fibromyalgia pain. The treatment appears to reset the pain processing systems, providing relief that extends well beyond the duration of the infusion itself. This prolonged effect suggests that lidocaine may help restore normal pain processing pathways, offering patients a window of improved function and quality of life.
The safety profile of intravenous lidocaine, when administered under proper medical supervision, has been well-established through decades of clinical use. The treatment is conducted with continuous monitoring to ensure patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes. Side effects are minimal when appropriate protocols are followed and qualified medical professionals oversee the administration.
Research Findings
Neurobiological Action
Targets central sensitisation and pain pathway hyperexcitability
Safety Profile
Well-established safety record with proper medical supervision
Treatment Considerations
Patient selection for intravenous lidocaine infusion therapy requires careful consideration of individual circumstances, medical history, and previous treatment responses. The therapy is typically considered for patients who have not achieved adequate pain relief with conventional treatments or who experience significant side effects from oral medications. A comprehensive assessment ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective treatment approach.
The treatment protocol involves a carefully controlled infusion administered over several hours in a monitored clinical setting. Patients remain conscious throughout the procedure, allowing for real-time communication with medical staff and immediate adjustment of the infusion rate if needed. This approach ensures both safety and optimal therapeutic benefit whilst maintaining patient comfort and confidence.
Patient Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of medical history and treatment response
Treatment Duration
Controlled infusion over several hours with continuous monitoring