Fibromyalgia, abbreviated as FM, is a disease that causes fatigue, localized tenderness, muscular and skeletal pain. There are studies that claim genetics as a cause of FM, but, the real cause is still not identified. If a person experiences widespread pain without any medical condition for more than three months, fibromyalgia is diagnosed. Depression, poor concentration, psychological stress, headaches, physical trauma are some of the main symptoms of FM. These symptoms may become serious and disturb your daily routine. There are many methods to ease its symptoms, fortunately.
Following are some of the fibromyalgia treatment options:
Using proper medication
There are many over the counter (OTC) pain relievers that are recommended by doctors and are used as a treatment option for fibromyalgia. These help in reducing muscle pain, minimizing the inflammation and also help in improving your sleep quality.
Practice Yoga
Studies indicate that fibromyalgia-affected people who practice yoga regularly have comparatively less muscle pain and fatigues. The breathing exercises and meditation help in improving the mood and increasing the muscle strength.
Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese treatment done by pricking needles into the skin. It helps in increasing the blood flow and changes the level of neurotransmitters in your brain. This method is used for treating chronic pain through natural self-healing. Studies show that the people who undergo acupuncture as one of the fibromyalgia treatments will get relief for at least two years. But, there are some side effects of this practice such as soreness, minor bleeding and bruising, right after the treatment. Another risk involved is that, if it is not from a licensed acupuncture expert, they may use unsterilized needles which can cause other infections.
Physiotherapy
This therapy strengthens your muscles and improves your movements and thus decreases the fibromyalgia pain. A trained physiotherapist can perform symptom-specific fibromyalgia treatments. Studying some self-care physiotherapy and practicing it can help in reducing fatigue. Having a proper pain management education will psychologically increase your performance.
Using antidepressants
Using antidepressants is a common fibromyalgia treatment that will help you in decreasing fatigue and muscle pain. Although, make sure you consult a doctor before using them as there may be some unpleasant side effects such as nausea, loss of sexual desire and weight gain.
Learn to control body functions
Learning to control your body functions, known as the biofeedback, helps in reducing fibromyalgia pain and muscle tension. Even though this technique doesn’t have any side effects, some people may feel exhausted or overwhelmed after a session of biofeedback.
Practice Tai Chi
Tai chi is a Chinese martial art practice that involves deep breathing, meditation, and controlled slow movements. It helps in improving one’s stamina, muscle strength, balance and breathing control. It doesn’t involve any strain, but if you overdo it, it may result in developing sore muscles and sprain.
Massage Therapy
Getting a massage by a trained massage therapist will help you increase the range of motions, reduce stress, relax your muscles and reduce your anxiety. It is advised to get it done from a trained therapist, as otherwise, you may get bruises and swelling.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
This therapy works by helping people set a realistic goal. Patients are encouraged to eradicate negative thoughts and identify dysfunctional thought patterns. This helps in reducing the mental strain, and thus the FM pain.
Get enough sleep
Fatigue is one of the main symptoms of FM. Getting proper sleep helps in reducing the chances of fatigue. Along with getting enough sleep, practicing good sleeping habits is also important. Practice getting to bed and waking up at the same time and reduce daytime napping as this may result in irregular sleeping.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Exercising regularly helps in decreasing the symptoms of FM. Develop a home exercise routine that includes stretching, good posture and relaxation after consulting a physiotherapist. Along with good exercise, make sure to eat healthily and limit your caffeine intake. This is one of the best fibromyalgia treatments.
Occupational therapy
Consult an occupational therapist to make adjustments to your work area so that you can complete your tasks with less stress to your body.
Reduce stress
Try to control your emotional and mental stress. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing or practice yoga on a regular basis. Take out some time for relaxing from all the over-exertion. Consulting a counselor will help you to reduce stress and improve your self-esteem. They may also advise you on how to deal with stressful situations.
Even though the real cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, there are many fibromyalgia treatments to get you relief from its pain. Consult a doctor to analyze which treatment method would be best suited for you. Fibromyalgia is a lifelong condition, but still, you can lead a healthy and active life with the proper treatment.