The best relief for the pain of fibromyalgia symptoms is a multidisciplinary approach, according to Dr. Robert Bennett of Oregon Health Sciences University. Widespread pain, depression, fatigue and a host of mental and emotional symptoms characterize fibromyalgia, and there is no one treatment or method that has been found to relieve the disorder. Although you may be in pain, keeping an open mind and a willingness to try new therapies will be helpful in lessening the pain you experience.
Step 1
Exercise, exercise, exercise! Not only does exercise work the muscles and relieve tension, it also releases endorphins in the brain, which are natural pain killers, and reduces signs of depression. Even if you can walk only from your bedroom to the kitchen, make an imaginary track in your house and walk on it whenever you can.
Step 2
Get quality sleep each night. Although that may sound impossible at times, by combining the suggestions here to reduce pain, sleep will improve. Sleep allows the body to rejuvenate and repair itself.
Step 3
At bedtime drink milk with 2 tsp. raw honey mixed in. The honey is high in potassium and the milk stimulates the release of tryptophan in your brain. Both encourage the body to rest more easily and induce sleep.
Step 4
Make dietary changes by eliminating certain foods and food additives. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) may create considerable pain, fatigue, brain fog and depression for some people, Laura A. Coleman and R. Roubenoff discuss in their book, "Nutrition and Rheumatic Disease (Nutrition and Health)." Stop eating all grains with gluten, including wheat, barley and rye. Gluten allergies and celiac disease have been connected to symptoms of fibromyalgia, according to the The Savvy Celiac website. Avoid nightshade vegetables containing the toxic chemical solanine, which contributes to considerable body pain in certain people. Nightshades are tomatoes, peppers, paprika, eggplant and white potatoes.
Step 5
Drink 1 to 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 6 to 8 oz. of water daily to help alkalize your body. Dr. Theodore A. Baroody's book, "Alkalinize or Die," discusses the effects of raising the body's pH, keeping it slightly alkaline, which lessens acidosis, a major contributing factor toward pain management. Although apple cider vinegar is acidic, it has the ability to neutralize acids, creating an alkaline-forming condition. Drink one to three glasses per day.
Step 6
Use homeopathic medicine for pain relief. There are numerous remedies available for the treatment of chronic pain, fatigue, depression and other symptoms related to fibromyalgia. The Complimentary and Alternative Review Board reviewed a double-blind study in September 2009 of the homeopathic remedy rhus tox that showed strong evidence of its ability to reduce pain, swelling, stiffness and inflammation associated with fibromyalgia and other musculoskeletal disorders. See a qualified homeopath to have your case taken up and the correct remedy prescribed for you.
Tips and Warnings
- Combine the above suggestions for a period of time and in a way that offers you maximum relief. If after you do, and you still suffer from pain, see your doctor.
- The information offered here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace medical advice.
Things You'll Need
- Honey
- Milk
- Apple cider vinegar
- Homeopathic remedies
References
- The Savvy Celiac: Fibromyalgia and Celiac Disease
- "Nutrition and Rheumatic Disease (Nutrition and Health)"; Laura A. Coleman and R. Roubenoff; 2008
- Alkalinize or Die"; Dr. Theodore A. Baroody; 1991
