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How To Treat Fibromyalgia
How To Treat Fibromyalgia
Treat pain
Treat fatigue
Alternatives
Clinical trials
Takeaway
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psychological stress
physical trauma
an injury
an illness
Treating pain, fatigue, and other symptoms is key. Fortunately, several options are available to help ease and manage FM
symptoms and improve your quality of life.
1. Pain relievers
Medication is an option to reduce FM pain. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as aspirin,
ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. These medications can help:
reduce inflammation
minimize muscular aches
improve sleep quality
Shop online for naproxen sodium.
2. Antidepressants
These can help ease pain and fatigue. Discuss the possible side effects of using antidepressants for FM with your doctor. For
some people, antidepressants can cause a variety of unpleasant side effects such as nausea, weight gain, and loss of sexual
desire.
3. Anticonvulsants
These seizure medications may also help reduce pain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved pregabalin (Lyrica), the
first anti-seizure drug for FM treatment. Gabapentin, which reduces nerve pain, may be suggested. But these medications come
with possible side effects including:
dizziness
weight gain
swelling
dry mouth
4. Yoga
Research has shown that people with FM who participated in yoga classes experienced improved mood and less pain and
fatigue. The classes included:
gentle poses
meditation
breathing exercises
group discussions
Try taking a yoga class. The practice increases muscle strength, incorporates meditation, and teaches different relaxation
techniques. Just be sure to let the instructor know about your condition, so they can adjust the poses as needed for you.
5. Acupuncture
You may want to try acupuncture for pain relief. It involves pricking the skin with needles to:
A study in the Journal of Rehabilitative Medicine found that people with FM who received acupuncture benefited from pain
relief for at least two years, compared to those who didn’t. For those who cannot tolerate the needles, acupressure may be an
option.
The risks of acupuncture include soreness, minor bleeding, and bruising after treatment. Always make sure your acupuncturist is
licensed to decrease risk of infection from unsterilized needles.
6. Physical therapy
Physical therapy techniques aim to improve your range of motion and strengthen the muscles. This can also help reduce FM
pain. Your therapist will tailor a program to help manage specific symptoms. They can also teach self-care techniques, including
FM education, to help you manage the fatigue and pain on your own. Research shows that pain management education can lead
to increased performance during exercise.
People with FM often have low levels of vitamin D. In a 2013 study, researchers found that people with FM felt physically
better and experienced less fatigue when they took vitamin D supplements. Talk to your doctor before taking vitamin D
supplements, as too much can be toxic.
8. Exercise
Exercise is also an effective way to combat tiredness and improve your energy levels. Exercise increases the brain’s production
of endorphins, improves sleep, and reduces depression. Suggested activities for people with FM include walking, biking, and
swimming. For some, getting started is difficult with widespread pain; start slow and increase gradually. While this article
presents options to consider trying, exercise is the only solution that continues to show benefit in controlled trials.
Medical marijuana can ease symptoms of fibromyalgia. One study found that people with FM who took medicinal cannabis
experienced:
More research is needed about the benefits of medical marijuana for FM. Side effects can include unfocused judgment and
concentration, and long-term effects need further research.
10. Biofeedback
Biofeedback is about learning how to control your body functions. This can help reduce muscle tension and FM pain. There are
no side effects associated with this technique, but some people can feel overwhelmed or exhausted after a session. Speak with
your doctor to see if you’re a good candidate for biofeedback.
11. Tai chi
This mind-body technique involves deep breathing, meditation, and controlled movements. Tai chi can improve muscle strength,
balance, and stamina. It’s not strenuous, but you can develop sore muscles or sprains if you overdo it.
Massages can relax your muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce stress and anxiety. You could experience temporary
bruising, swelling, and pain if your therapist applies too much pressure.
The basis of CBT is about helping people set realistic goals. Patients work on identifying dysfunctional thought patterns and
developing techniques to manage negative thoughts. The techniques you learn through CBT can help to reduce or minimize your
FM pain.
Takeaway
Fibromyalgia can be a lifelong condition that causes pain, fatigue, and tenderness. While there’s no single cause, there are many
treatment options available to provide relief from FM pain. Talk with your doctor about options. From medication to physical
therapy, there are plenty of treatments to try if one doesn’t work for you. You can still live a healthy, active life with FM.
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