1. Keep a Pain Journal
Take notes about your fibromyalgia pain as a preliminary step to using reflexology as a treatment option. Record the area in which you are feeling pain, its intensity, its frequency and what you do to relieve it. Bring your journal with you on your next doctor's appointment to review it with him. Having a detailed record of your fibromyalgia symptoms can be helpful in getting a referral to a reflexology practitioner.
Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure and massage to points on your hands and feet that correspond to other areas of your body. It's similar to acupressure in that both types of alternative medicine use non-invasive pressure as treatment. The manipulation of pressure points during reflexology can provide relief from fibromyalgia pain.
2. See a Specialist
Ask your doctor or insurance company for a list of reflexologists in your area. Some insurance companies will reimburse you for reflexology sessions, under the heading of "complimentary medicine." Bring your pain journal to your consultation so you and your therapist can develop a treatment to address your most prevalent or disabling symptoms.
Allow plenty of time in your schedule for your appointments. Each session lasts about 30 minutes, but you may feel very relaxed or tired afterward, and not quite ready to rejoin your busy day. Some people feel nauseated or have a headache after a reflexology treatment, but these aftereffects are generally short-lived. Your practitioner will let you know how many sessions she feels are appropriate for your condition.
3. Self-Treat
You can practice reflexology on yourself at home if there is no provider in your area, or if your insurance won't cover the costs. Special socks and gloves can be used to teach you the pressure points to manipulate for pain relief.
If you decide to self-treat with reflexology, inquire at your local hospital or holistic health center about an introductory workshop or class you can take. Reflexology can only help your symptoms if you know how to perform it correctly, without the risk of hurting yourself.
