If you are a sufferer, you’re probably looking for anything that can help with fibromyalgia pain relief.
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disease that affects the musculoskeletal system. Symptoms vary widely among sufferers, but generally they include muscle and joint aches, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches and tenderness in several specific areas. The tenderness can be in any of eighteen specific areas on the body known as “trigger points.” Often misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and another musculoskeletal condition, Fibromyalgia occurs more often in women than in men (about 1 in 10).
Since FMS is commonly misdiagnosed, the most important step to fibromyalgia pain relief is being properly diagnosed. While the condition is not completely understood by the medical community, and there is no specific course of treatment, weight-loss type programs are usually recommended. Low-intensity exercise, drinking lots of water, and reducing mental and physical stresses (those caused by saturated fats, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, meat and sugar) are usually recommended.
Medications such as anti-depressants, muscle relaxants, and sleep aids are commonly prescribed as part of the regular treatment for Fibromyalgia pain relief. Nutritional supplements have also been proven beneficial because FMS sufferers often have low levels of manganese and magnesium, which greatly affect thyroid functions.
Physical therapy is also strongly recommended to help teach patients methods of walking, stretching, and exercise that reduces muscle tension and fatigue. Physical therapists can also teach and/or recommend use of ergonomic tools that can reduce muscle strain, such as padded chairs and special keyboards for typing.
Acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage therapy can also help FMS suffers.
Testimonies from patients showed the following as helpful in aiding Fibromyalgia pain relief:
- exercise
- relaxation techniques
- stretching
- deeper sleep
- massage therapy
- physiotherapy
- osteopathy
- baths with Epsom salts
- acupuncture
- acupressure
- Botox injections
- Lidocaine injections
When it comes to pain relief, there is no “one size fits all” solution. Pain relief is a process of trial and error, and you and your doctor will need to work together to reduce your pain and improve your quality of life.
