Fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition that causes musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and localized sensitivity. The cause of FM is unknown, but genetics can play a role. Symptoms can develop after:
- Psychological stress
- Physical trauma
- A wound
- A disease
Other symptoms can include depression, poor concentration, and headaches. Treating pain, fatigue, and other symptoms are essential. Fortunately, there are several options available to relieve and control the symptoms of FM and improve your quality of life.
WAYS TO TREAT FIBROMYALGIA PAIN
FM pain can be mild or severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, treatment can help control pain.
1. AnalgesicMedication:
Is an option to reduce FM pain. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.
These drugs can help:
- Reduces inflammation
- Minimizes muscle pain
- Improves quality of sleep
2. Antidepressants:
These can help relieve pain and fatigue. Discuss the possible side effects of using FM antidepressants with your doctor. In some people, antidepressants can cause a variety of uncomfortable side effects, such as nausea, weight gain, and loss of sexual desire.
3. Anticonvulsants:
These anticonvulsant medications can also help relieve pain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration have approved pregabalin (Lyrica), the first anticonvulsant drug for the treatment of FM. You can suggest gabapentin, which relieves nerve pain.
However, these drugs have possible side effects, including:
- Dizziness
- Weight gain
- Swelling
- Dry mouth
4. Yoga:
Research has shown that people with FM who take yoga classes have a better mood and less pain and fatigue. Course included:
- Gentle poses
- Meditation
- breathing exercises
- Group discussions
Take a yoga class. Exercise increases muscle strength, includes meditation, and teaches various relaxation techniques. Make sure to inform the instructor of your condition so that you can adjust the postures if necessary.
5. Acupuncture:
You may want to try acupuncture for pain relief. The skin is pricked with needles to:• Promote natural self-healing.• Promote a change in blood flow.• Change the levels of neurotransmitters in your brain• Treat a variety of health conditions, including chronic pain.A study from the Journal of Rehabilitative Medicine found that people with FM who received acupuncture experienced pain relief for at least two years compared to those who did not. For those who do not tolerate needles, acupressure may be an option.
The risks of acupuncture include pain, light bleeding, and bruising after treatment. Always make sure your acupuncturist is approved to reduce the risk of infection from unsterilized needles.
6. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy techniques aim to improve their range of motion and strengthen muscles. This can also help reduce FM pain. Your therapist will design a program to help you control specific symptoms. They can also teach self-care techniques, including FM education, to help you manage fatigue and pain on your own. Research shows that pain management education can lead to greater performance during exercise. How can I treat fibromyalgia fatigue? Fatigue is a common symptom of fibromyalgia. You can wake up tired in the morning despite sleeping through the night. Simple everyday activities can be strenuous. Options to treat FM fatigue include
7. Vitamin D:
People with FM often have low levels of vitamin D. In a 2013 study, researchers found that people with FM felt better physically and experienced less fatigue when taking vitamin D supplements. Talk to your doctor before taking supplements, of vitamin D, since too much can be toxic.
8. Exercise:
Exercise is also an effective way to combat tiredness and improve your energy levels. Exercise increases the production of endorphins in the brain, improves sleep, and reduces depression. Suggested activities for people with FM include walking, biking and swimming. For some, starting is difficult with widespread pain; Start slowly and increase gradually. While this article presents options to consider trying, exercise is the only solution that continues to show benefits in controlled trials. What are other alternative treatments for fibromyalgia? You can incorporate alternative treatments to relieve FM symptoms. Talk to your doctor about the following options.
9. Medical marijuana:
Medical marijuana can relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. One study found that people with FM who took medical cannabis experienced: • A reduction in pain and stiffness
• Enhanced relaxation
• An increase in drowsiness
• Feelings of well-being
• Improvement of mental health More research is needed on the benefits of medical marijuana for FM.
Side effects may include unfocused judgment and concentration, and long-term effects need more research.
10. Biofeedback
Biofeedback is about learning how to control your body’s functions. This can help reduce muscle tension and FM pain. There are no side effects associated with this technique, but some people may feel overwhelmed or exhausted after a session. Talk to your doctor to see if you are a good candidate for biofeedback.
11. Tai chi
This technique of body and mind involves deep breathing, meditation, and controlled movements. Tai Chi can improve muscle strength, balance, and endurance. It’s not tiring, but you can develop muscle pain or sprains if you overdo it.
12. Massage therapy
Massages can relax the muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce stress and anxiety. You may experience temporary bruising, swelling, and pain if your therapist applies too much pressure.
13. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
The basis of CBT is to help people set realistic goals. Patients work to identify dysfunctional thought patterns and develop techniques to manage negative thoughts. The techniques learned through CBT can help you reduce or minimize your FM pain. What new treatments are being developed? Clinical trials are crucial for the development of new treatments and medications for certain conditions. Participation in clinical trials provides valuable information to researchers who are learning more about FM and chronic pain. Visit Center Watch to find a clinical trial near you if you are interested in participating.
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.