Lifestyle Tips for Managing Fibromyalgia Pain Symptoms
The article discusses various lifestyle changes that can help in the management of fibromyalgia pain.
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According to the American Chronic Pain Society, fibromyalgia (FMS) syndrome is one of the most common chronic pain conditions in the world. It is characterized by widespread and unexplained pain all over the body, affecting the person's ability to perform routine activities. Reports from the National Fibromyalgia Association suggest that as many as 10 million people in the United States are affected by fibromyalgia. Though the condition affects both men and women, about 80-90 percent of all cases reported are women. Reliable healthcare centers in Brooklyn offer several proven pain management modalities for this chronic condition. The exact cause of FMS is not known, but in most cases it develops after a physical or emotional trauma, injury or illness. The main symptoms of this musculoskeletal condition are widespread pain and tenderness across the body, with severe tiredness and problems with sleep. Some symptoms include – balance problems, cognitive difficulties, digestive disorders, muscle stiffness, headaches, itchy/burning skin, and irritable bowel syndrome. The type and severity of symptoms varies from one person to another. How to Better Manage FMS Symptoms? Fibromyalgia causes widespread muscle and joint pain combined with fatigue and tiredness, which can lead to severe depression and isolation. If not handled carefully, these symptoms can considerably interfere with your daily activities. Incorporating small lifestyle changes can have a big impact and help manage chronic pain and other FMSassociated symptoms. Here are some simple lifestyle changes that can help you cope with fibromyalgia: Monitor your diet – Focus on nutrient-rich foods to gain more energy and avoid other health problems. Foods rich in protein and potassium help muscles grow and function efficiently. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, improve symptoms and lessen chronic fatigue. Limiting or reducing intake of processed or fried foods, caffeine and refined sugars is important as they can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. Get adequate sleep - Generally, FMS patients are sleep deprived and have low quality sleep, which can lead to chronic fatigue and loss of cognitive function and focus. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is critical for fibromyalgia pain management. It is important to sleep at least 8 hours each night. Also, make an effort to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
Exercise – Doing moderate exercises helps patients to manage muscle stiffness and aches. Try a combination of aerobic, strengthening and stretching exercises. Manage/reduce stress level - Stress may play an important role in triggering fibromyalgia symptoms. In fact, many people with this condition feel anxious, nervous and panicky when symptoms arise. Relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help patients better manage the symptoms.
Complementary therapies – A combination of complimentary therapies and medications can provide quick relief from fibromyalgia pain. They also help relieve stress, ease muscle tension and help patients feel better and healthier. Reliable healthcare centers offer effective treatment modalities such as
Physical therapy – This involves therapeutic exercise programs and other options to help build strength and balance. Chiropractic care – Administered by trained chiropractors, spinal manipulation and realignment techniques are used to relieve pain, improve function and promote natural healing. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) – This technique involves usage of low electrical simulation which interacts with the sensory nervous system to reduce muscle stiffness and pain. Pain
management
injections
–
Over-the-counter
medications
such
as
acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen sodium are used to reduce muscle spasm. Track/record your symptoms – Keeping track of symptoms is an important part of FMS pain management as this will help patients understand the various circumstances wherein pain symptoms aggravate and what to do in such situations. This will help patients gain better control over their musculoskeletal disorder.
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Living with fibromyalgia can be difficult, as the pain and fatigue can significantly affect daily life and make it more challenging. Hence, it is important for patients to focus on bettering both physical and mental conditions. The ultimate goal is to live well despite having the condition by reducing the symptoms and the impact that it makes on your day- to-day living.
718-769-2521
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info@hqbk.com