Fibromyalgia is prolonged body pain with tender points in the joints, muscles and other soft tissues. It is a common condition that is often associated with fatigue, headache, insomnia, depression and anxiety. The radiating, shooting or burning pain may be mild or severe. Fibromyalgia can also be associated with irritable bowel syndrome, memory loss, depressions, numbness and tingling in hands, and headaches. The goal of treatment is to help the patient manage the symptoms. Healthy diet often plays a key role.
Diet
Eating a healthy and balanced diet may help manage several underlying causes of fibromyalgia. A study published in a 2009 edition of the "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology" suggests that a low-salt, uncooked vegan diet may help improve fibromyalgia symptoms in the short run. PubMed Health recommends limiting caffeine intake to help treat insomnia and the fibromyalgia associated with it. Another study published in the June 2001 edition of the journal "Annals of Pharmacotherapy" states that avoiding foods containing additives such as monosodium glutamate alleviates fibromyalgia. The study, however, included only 4 patients and its results may not apply to everyone. Including large amounts of fiber, low-fat dairy products, fruits and vegetables in daily meals may also benefit fibromyalgia patients.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia. It is, however, important to discuss the side effects of these drugs with your doctor before using them. Your doctor may also prescribe other pain medications, depending on your symptoms. Antidepressant and seizure medications also help treat depression, anxiety and insomnia associated with the condition.
Cognitive Therapy
According to PubMed Health, 6 to 20 one-hour sessions of cognitive therapy may help fibromyalgia patients deal with negative thoughts and develop a positive attitude. The patients learn to recognize their triggers and make a plan to deal with them.
Exercise and Physical Therapy
A variety of exercise and physical therapy techniques such as aerobic walking, low-intensity pool exercise, and qigong movement therapy may help persons suffering from fibromyalgia by reducing stress. However, according to an article published in the March 2005 edition of the journal "Current Opinion in Rheumatology," the right exercise regimen may vary for different patients. Therefore, talk to your health care provider before starting one.
Alternative Therapy
MayoClinic.com also states that alternative therapies such as acupuncture and massage therapy help improve blood circulation, relax the muscles, improve the range of motion and reduce heart rate. All of these may in turn help fibromyalgia patients manage pain and other symptoms associated with the condition. Yoga and tai chi also relieve stress and help manage fibromyalgia.
References
- "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology"; Vegan Diet Alleviates Fibromyalgia Symptoms. K. Kaartinen, et al; 2000
- "Annals of Phrmacotherapy"; Relief of Fibromyalgia Symptoms Following DisContinuation of Dietary Excitotoxins. J. D. Smith, et al; June 2001
- MayoClinic.com: Fibromyalgia
- PubMed Health: Fibromyalgia
- "Current Opinion in Rheumatology"; Exercise in Fibromyalgia; K. Mannerkorpi; March 2005
