How might relaxin be used to treat fibromyalgia ?
Relaxin, a pregnancy hormone, is currently being studied for treatment of fibromyalgia. Relaxin levels are ten times higher in women during pregnancy—it helps soften collagen in the joints and increase elasticity of muscles, tendons, and ligaments in preparation for giving birth.
Because some women report that their fibromyalgia symptoms go away during pregnancy and return after delivery, it has been theorized that elevated relaxin in the system may help relieve muscle pain and stiffness. Relaxin may release muscle spasms and increase collagen in the musculoskeletal and nervous system, which would greatly help ease discomfort of those with fibromyalgia.
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