Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that causes body-wide muscle and joint pain and fatigue. Researchers are still unsure as to what exactly causes fibromyalgia, but they believe both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the disease.
In most cases, fibromyalgia is triggered by physical or psychological trauma, infections, and other serious health conditions. In addition to chronic body pain and fatigue, people with fibromyalgia also experience tenderness, depression, attention and concentration issues, and headaches.
Even though fibromyalgia does not have a cure, many treatment options are available to relieve pain, fatigue, and mood disorders.
Medications for Fibromyalgia Pain
The severity of pain varies in every individual with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia pain can be severe enough to have an impact on people’s everyday life, but it may also be manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen and Advil lessen muscle pain and inflammation.
Although they both come with undesirable side effects like weight gain and loss of libido, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants are also sometimes prescribed to manage pain and fatigue.
Physical Therapy for Fibromyalgia Pain
Physical therapy strategies work to recover motion range and strengthen muscles, which can lessen pain and tenderness. In most cases, patients get an individualized plan based on their complaints and are provided with tips and techniques they can practice on their own to fight pain and fatigue.
Yoga for Fibromyalgia Pain
Due to its gentle and relaxing nature, yoga is an excellent activity to take part in to relieve pain and fatigue, as well as enhance your mood.
Physical Activity for Fibromyalgia Fatigue
During exercise, our brain releases endorphins and these hormones boost energy, relieve fatigue, improve sleep quality, and fight stress and depression. Hence, it is also essential for people with fibromyalgia to regularly exercise.
Consulting your doctor about your exercise regimen is key, but experts recommend low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, and biking as safe and effective options for those with fibromyalgia.
Vitamin D for Fibromyalgia Fatigue
Studies have shown that people with fibromyalgia tend to have low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency can cause muscle weakness and bone pain, so some individuals with fibromyalgia and low levels of vitamin D report improved symptoms after taking vitamin D supplements. However, it is important to consult your doctor about your vitamin D intake as you can overdose on vitamin D.
Fibromyalgia Treatment Options to Discuss with Your Doctor
There are also alternative treatments such as cannabis, which can relieve pain, improve mood and improve sleep quality, and also biofeedback, which teaches the patient how to control their involuntary body functions to alleviate the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Practicing tai chi in addition to yoga and getting therapeutic massages also relax the muscles and relieve stiffness and tenderness.
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