1. Frequent Massage Therapy Helps
Getting a massage one to two times a week has a great pain reducing effect if you have fibromyalgia. The kneading and rubbing involved in a massage releases pain-relieving endorphins into your system and makes you feel relaxed and good all over. It also increases blood flow to the parts that are being massaged so that vital nutrients can reach painful areas, bringing healing. There are several different massage techniques that are appropriate for fibromyalgia. Some of the best known are neuromuscular therapy, passive stretching, Swedish massage, reflexology and myofascial release.
2. Use Heat as Necessary
Heat relieves pain and promotes relaxation. Whenever you're feeling achy and painful, apply a warm pack to the affected areas for up to 15 minutes. Warm showers, saunas and hot tubs are also excellent ways to use heat to relieve the pain of fibromyalgia. You can use heat as often as you like, but don't use anything that's more than 104 degrees F, as this could cause scalding and dizziness.
3. Get Acupuncture
Acupuncture releases endorphins into your system, and those endorphins block pain. Your acupuncturist will use long, thin needles on the areas of your body that are painful, twisting the needles slightly once they're in place. You'll then lie down and rest for 15 to 20 minutes while the needles do their work. When done properly, by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is rarely painful, and you may not feel a thing in some cases. If a particular area of your body is sensitive on the day of your treatment, you might feel a slight pinch when the needle goes in, but nothing more. One to two acupuncture sessions a week on a regular basis is an effective treatment for fibromyalgia pain.
4. Take Pain Relieving Medication
Pain relieving medication is usually the first treatment you'll use in fibromyalgia. Taking a pain killer every day will keep the level of pain you feel to a minimum. Most of the time, over-the-counter medications are fine. However, you may need a prescription for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs from your doctor if your pain is strong and persistent.
