Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that, according to the Mayo Clinic, occurs in about two percent of those in the United States. Symptoms include constant, dull aches in muscles, ligaments and tendons, tender points that cause additional pain when stimulated with firm pressure, and not feeling rested after sleep. All of these may also contribute to a constant feeling of fatigue. Fibromyalgia symptoms may be triggered by physical or emotional trauma or have no discernible trigger, and may be accompanied by other conditions such as lupus, irritable bowel syndrome, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Step 1
Get actively involved in your own recovery. Educate yourself about fibromyalgia as much as possible, and talk with your doctor about how best to become a partner in your own care. This includes setting realistic, achievable goals for yourself, breaking large goals down into manageable steps. For example, sit down and brainstorm where you'd like to be in five to ten years, then break that long-term goal down into smaller increments of a year or a few months. Be as specific as possible, and make your short term goals manageable. So if you want to lose 100 pounds in five years, you might start by setting a goal to lose two pounds a month for three months in a row, then reevaluate and increase your goal once those three months have passed.
Step 2
Consult a nutritionist or dietitian to help you tailor a diet for your body's well-being. While there's no scientific proof that certain types of foods are linked with fibromyalgia, you can choose to avoid foods that are known to create imbalances or inflammation that might worsen pain flares, such as caffeine and processed sugar. A balanced diet is also a good way of maintaining your energy and a positive outlook throughout the day.
Step 3
Stay as active as possible. Practice pacing yourself and finding just the right amount--and type--of exercise that will invigorate you without depleting your energy or provoking a pain flare-up. This is highly personal, so experiment with various types of gentle exercise like warm water aerobics, walking, dancing and tai chi until you find what works for you.
Step 4
Create positive visualizations and affirmations that encourage an even, sustainable flow of energy, like warm water circulating through your body. Meditation and breathing exercises may also help maintain your energy levels and soothe the worst pain flares. Recognize and acknowledge emotions as they arise, since they may affect your physical well-being.
Step 5
Remember that you're not alone. Connect with others through support groups, educational classes and online forums. Organizations like the American Chronic Pain Association and National Fibromyalgia Association (see Resources) provide useful tips and networking opportunities for living with fibromyalgia.
