Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain in muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as extreme fatigue. This condition is widely misunderstood and can be difficult to diagnose. According to the Mayo Clinic, about two percent of people in the United States have fibromyalgia, more often women than men, and the risk of developing it increases with age.
Research shows that those with fibromyalgia experience frequent disruptions during sleep, preventing them from the important restorative process their muscles need to be replenished. Fortunately there are a number of tips available to help you get better sleep with fibromyalgia.
Creating a comfortable area in your bedroom is key to relaxing and sleeping better. Begin your evening with yoga or stretching and breathing exercises to help you relax. Avoid any foods or beverages with caffeine, including chocolate, coffee or tea. Try having a long, soothing bath in the evening. Use a loofah to gently scrub your body in order to help you relax.
After your bath, use a self-massaging device to ease painful areas. Turn on some calming music and begin some self-meditation steps to quiet your thoughts and soothe any tension. Before getting into bed, turn the temperature to a comfortable one so you stay restful throughout the night. Make sure the room is as quiet and free of disruptions as possible. Darken your room as much as possible, or try using a lavender scented eye mask to help you relax.
By easing into your bedtime feeling relaxed, and then staying relaxed throughout the night, you may be able to help your body sleep better. This sleep will help you experience more muscle restoration so you feel better and can cope with your fibromyalgia.
Reference URLs
1. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia/ds00079
2. http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-pain-8/pain-at-night
