Living with fibromyalgia (FMS) doesnt have to be a painful experience. Some find relief in simple lifestyle changes, some find peace with alternative medicine, and others turn to more conventional methods of treatment that range in intensity. Below are several options available to those with FMS:
Lifestyle: Some simple changes for those suffering from FMS are:
Diet: Something we can all work on. For those dealing with FMS, studies have shown that a mostly raw, vegetarian or vegan diet helps reduce the symptoms of FMS. This change in diet helps lower cholesterol, as well as the intake of trans fat.
Exercise: While you should speak to a health care professional about what type of exercise is best for you, low/non-impact activities such as Yoga and Tai Chi are popular methods of handling pain associated with FMS. Exercise is important especially for those with FMS because it:
- Regulates blood flow
- Helps you get better sleep. Insomnia is a common companion to FMS, and those who are suffering from FMS need sleep the most! Sleep helps you heal, both mentally and physically.
Medication: is also an option in dealing with FMS. There are different types of medications that address the different symptoms you experience with your FMS.
Opiates: reduce pain by mimicking the body's endorphins -- natural painkillers produced in the brain.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs): aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen belong in this category. They can treat muscle pain, tension headaches, and osteoarthritis. NSAIDs interfere with the production of prostaglandins, a chemical that is typically released when injury occursPatients with fibromyalgia often suffer from overproduction of prostaglandins. Steroids: While these are generally associated with professional ball players or over-developed meat heads, steroids actually reduce pain by blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins. Their function is actually similar to non-steroidal options. Experts say they are the best anti-inflammatory medication.Antidepressants: increase the level of neurotransmitters (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the body, which cause the release of endorphins. Some people report feeling more depressed taking antidepressants, so it is important to keep an open dialogue with your physician, and report any changes in mood or behavior if you are using this method of treatment.Muscle Relaxants: calm muscle spasms by sedating the central nervous system.Minimal/non-invasive options: Those with FMS have the option of turning to alternative as well as conventional medicine when it comes to minimal and/or non-invasive procedures:
Acupuncture: involves the insertion of fine, disposable needles into tiny places on the skin called acupuncture points. Acupuncture is believed to work because it stimulates better circulation to the tissues, releases tension in the muscle surrounding the acupuncture point, and releases endorphins into the spine and brain. Acupuncture bears the benefits of several other treatments in one simple procedure.Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulations (TENS): uses mild electrical impulses delivered to the skin by a hand-held device. It is a popular method of relieving joint and muscle pain. TENS works by increasing endorphins and stimulating the nerve fibers, thus altering the balance of painful stimuli entering the spinal cord. The device is small enough to be worn in a pocket, providing fast pain relief on the go!Pain Relief With Anesthesia: An injection of local anesthetic along the course of the nerve or nerves associated with the pain.Surgical OptionsImplanted Dorsal Column Stimulator: Like the TENS, it delivers mild electric currents to soothe pain. However, this method involves an implanted device that continuously delivers the electrical currents to spinal nerves.Spinal Infusion: involves the delivery of low doses of medications, like morphine, through a catheter inserted in the spine. For those suffering from immense chronic pain, it is a convenient method of pain control.No two people are alike, and the treatments that are best for you may not work for others. Some may even need a combination of treatments to gain relief.With all the methods of treatment now available to those living with FMS, there is no reason to live in pain. Consult your primary care physician to see which method or methods are right for you.
