Tips For Handling Fibromyalgia

If you’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you probably have a lot of questions. First of all, what is fibromyalgia anyway? Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal condition that causes widespread muscle and joint pain peppered with fatigue. In addition, pain and fatigue can lead to depression and isolation if it is not handled carefully. That’s why a good pain relief program is important.

If you suffer from fibromyalgia, there are numerous things you can do on your own to help control pain and make it more manageable. Here are five ways to help reduce fibromyalgia pain:

• Reduce Your Stress Level – While it may not be possible to remove all stressors from your life, anything you can do to take stress down a level or two will help. This may mean letting go of obligations, adjusting your work schedule, or asking someone you know and trust for help. It is well worth the effort if it keeps you feeling better inside and out.
• Make Modifications to Your Work – Can you work from home a couple of days a week? Would sitting in a different type of chair help with pain? Would a different position lead to less stress? Think about all the hours you spend at work each week, and you’ll see how important it is to ensure your workplace doesn’t lead to more pain or emotional distress.
• Learn to Say No – When you have fibromyalgia, you need to put time into your own wellness and you don’t need to take on too much. Learning how to say “no” when friends, family members, or co-workers ask you to take on more than you are comfortable with becomes key.
• Get Regular Exercise – It may seem difficult to get out there and work out, but even the smallest amount of exercise can have a significant impact on how you feel. A short walk just a couple of times a week may help you feel better and strengthen your body to fight the condition.
• Reduce Caffeine – Caffeine is a chemical that can make your body feel stressed. It may be hard to give up that daily coffee or your favorite soda, but reducing your intake is an easy way to help you feel better today AND tomorrow.

If you are suffering from fibromyalgia or another issue that causes you ongoing pain, reach out to us at Alliance Spine and Pain Centers. We would love to help you find the relief you need AND deserve. Our pain management specialists, nurses, and physician assistants work together to make sure that a care plan tailored for your unique needs can be created.