Since there is no known cause or cure for fibromyalgia, it should come as no surprise that there is not one accepted treatment protocol for the condition. The best chance an individual has for coping with fibro is to combine traditional and alternative therapies with a whole lot of gentle self-care.

Until recently there was no specific fibromyalgia medication on the market. With the advent of Lyrica (Pregabalin), that has changed. An anti-seizure medication, Lyrica may reduce pain and improve function in those with the condition. Other medications that PWFMs (persons with fibromyalgia) use include analgesics, NSAIDs and other pain relievers, antidepressants, muscle relaxants and sleeping pills. Dietary and herbal supplements such as calcium, magnesium and St. John’s Wort are often used in conjunction with prescription medications by those with fibromyalgia. Of course, it’s important to have a doctor or other qualified medical professional, such as an osteopath, assist you in choosing the appropriate medications and supplements.

Acupuncture has been shown to improve the quality of life for those with fibromyalgia. It can provide stress and pain relief, improve mental clarity and decrease depression symptoms among other things. Chiropractic care, which improves spinal mobility, can also be quite effective in decreasing pain. Massage, yoga, and tai chi can also work wonders.

Therapy is often in order for PWFMs. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help patients cope better with stress and uncover childhood traumas. Many studies show that fibro-mites often struggled with sexual, emotional and/or mental abuse during their younger years.

Self-care measures are, of course, vitally important to add to this list. Your doctor can help you create a health care program that works for you. However, in order to live well with fibromyalgia (yes, it is indeed possible), you have to take care of yourself.

As mentioned before, it’s imperative to watch what you eat. Although , there is no such thing as a fibro diet, there are certain measures you can take. In fact, the foods you steer clear of may be as important (if not more so) as those you choose to eat. Limiting or avoiding caffeine is good. Dietary measures such as restricting sugar and artificial sweeteners (including Splenda), eliminating grain and dairy and increasing water intake can also help those with FM. Eating a whole foods diet that’s low on processed items and high on nutritionally-dense foods is one of the best gifts you can give your body.

To reduce stress, you might want to try deep-breathing exercises, meditation and so forth. It’s important to take some time out for yourself each and every day to do something meaningful and enjoyable. Make sure you get enough sleep. It’s best to limit daytime naps and to go to bed and wake up at the same time each and every day – even on the weekends.

Finally, you’ve got to learn to listen your body. Pace yourself. Life is like a marathon. You can’t sprint the entire way. As a PWFM, if you overdo it one day, you’ll likely pay for it the next (and maybe the next few after that). As time goes by you’ll understand better what your body can and can not do. The more you learn about fibromyalgia and your body’s experiences with it, the easier it becomes to live with this chronic condition.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this web site is provided for your general information only. This site does not give medical advice or engage in the practice of medicine. Under no circumstances does fibromyalgia-info.org recommend particular treatment for specific individuals and in all cases recommends that you consult your physician or local treatment center before pursuing any course of treatment.