7 Tips For Shopping With Fibromyalgia

1. Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is key to ensure comfort while going on a shopping spree. This includes making a list of all the people you want to buy presents for, and then group them together accordingly. For example, all the kids toys go together, tech gadgets for teens together, etc. That way, when youre out shopping, you dont have to go back to the same store you know in advance everything you need from one store.

Also consider the time of day youre heading out. Shopping in the early morning means less crowds and better parking spots. But, mornings are also a bad time for pain. Another option is to look into stores that stay open late so you can go whenever you feel most comfortable.

2. Shop From Home A very easy way to shop is to do it online or from catalogs. That way, you dont have to worry about staying on your feet all day or bustling through busy crowds.

3. Invite a Friend

Taking a friend along can help alleviate some of the stress, especially if they know and are sympathetic to your condition. Some advantages include helping you carry bags, saving a spot in line, and splitting up so you dont have to search the whole store yourself. And its always great to just spend time with a friend!

4. Take Your Meds With You You never know if you might need them. You might feel fine heading out, but the pain might be triggered and youll have wished you brought your pain rub or patches along. Also bring your mobility aids, like a cane, along and keep it in the car until you need it.

6. Make Rest Stops Walking around for long periods of time can be very tiring, even for shoppers that don't have fibromyalgia. The mall is a great place for shopping because they provide benches. Other ways you can find rest is to go into a dressing room or even go to the restroom for a break.