Fibromyalgia: Part 2

In Part 1 of this post, we listed some of the symptoms and potential causes of fibromyalgia.  In Part 2, we will discuss some proposed treatments for fibromyalgia.

Treatment

Unfortunately, while there are a variety of ways to treat fibromyalgia, there is currently no cure for fibromyalgia.  Some of the most prominent courses of treatment include:

  • Exercise: Many fibromyalgia patients may be afraid to exercise because they think it will increase their pain.  However, being active may help to alleviate pain because physical activity can increase endorphin levels that patients may be lacking.  Exercise can also alleviate stress, anxiety and depression—common symptoms of fibromyalgia.
  • Physical Therapy: Some physical therapists utilize exercises that help fibromyalgia patients relax tense muscles and move in ways that will not exacerbate pain levels. Physical therapy is often used as a precursor to exercise.
  • Medication: Antidepressants are often prescribed to help with the depression, fatigue, and sleep issues associated with fibromyalgia. Medications that facilitate restful sleep may also help with the pain, by allowing patients the rest needed to recover.  Other drugs, such as Lyrica, have been approved by the FDA to directly treat fibromyalgia pain.  Remember, you should always consult with your doctor before taking any medication.

Conclusion

Fibromyalgia is a condition that varies from person to person, with people having both good and bad days.  If you suffer from fibromyalgia, note what makes your pain worse or better, and try to avoid or continue those practices.  As always, it is important to consult with your doctor to ensure that you are receiving appropriate treatment for the chronic pain caused by fibromyalgia.

If your fibromyalgia has progressed to the point where you can no longer practice, we encourage you to contact an experienced disability attorney before filing a disability claim.  Disability claims involving fibromyalgia can be particularly difficult, due to the subjective nature of the condition, so it is important to have an experienced advocate at your side to help you navigate the claims process.

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