10 Ways to Treat Fibromyalgia

Over 2% of the US population, mostly women, suffers from fibromyalgia, a rheumatic condition that affects the tender parts of the body. Technically speaking, there is no known cure yet for this debilitating disease.

But don’t fret. You can try out the following remedies to help mitigate the symptoms. As always, be sure to clear any remedy you try with your doctor first.

1. Pain Relievers

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Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol, naproxen sodium, and ibuprofen can be used as quick-fix remedies to counter fibromyalgia pain. Such over-the-counter medications, however, can only do so much, and you might need to pursue alternative treatments. 

Your doctor might recommend the following for a different type of relief…

2. Antidepressants

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Prescription drugs can be extremely efficient in relieving the more extreme symptoms of fibromyalgia. FDA-approved antidepressants such as Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Savella (milnacipran), are prescribed by physicians to minimize fibromyalgia-induced pain and fatigue.

The next option can produce effective results in combating the pain, too… 

3. Anticonvulsants

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Anti-seizure medication can also mitigate pain and other symptoms wrought by fibromyalgia. Lyrica (pregabalin) an anticonvulsant commonly prescribed to people with seizures, nerve pain, and spinal cord injuries, has been noted to be effective.

Putting yourself back on your feet can also do wonders when it comes to treating fibromyalgia symptoms…

4. Aerobic Exercise

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As difficult and painful as it may sound, but exercising is actually helpful for people with fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that gentle aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, and biking not only improve physical fitness but also reduces pain and fatigue.

These modes of exercise are also especially helpful… 

5. Yoga & Pilates

Popular exercise methods like yoga and pilates are helpful in keeping the symptoms of fibromyalgia at bay. These provide sets of exercises that gently stretch the body in order to loosen tight joints and sore muscles.

There are other physical ways you can help your body heal from severe fibromyalgia symptoms…

6. Physical Therapy

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Physical therapy helps significantly in mitigating the pain, stiffness, and fatigue induced by fibromyalgia.  These exercises and other activities strengthen muscle tone and ensure mobility.

This next type of therapy doesn’t just relieve the body…

7. Occupational Therapy

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On the other hand, occupational therapy treatments help patients with fibromyalgia focus on getting back on track with their everyday tasks like chores, workloads, and leisure activities.

Other methods don’t fall short of their benefits either…

8. Acupuncture

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This ancient Chinese form of alternative medicine has always been a popular remedy for chronic pain. Researchers have noted its considerable efficiency in relieving pain among a number of fibromyalgia patients.  

Good food can really make a huge difference in how your body handles pain, too…

9. Healthy Diet

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A low-calorie, high-protein, and fiber-rich diet consisting of foods like salmon, bananas, oranges, kale, carrots, and brown rice is recommended for fibro patients. Foods such as red meat, gluten, and caffeine can trigger and even worsen symptoms, so try to limit those foods.

The next treatment option will encourage you to give your mental health some love too! 

10. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

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Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a well-recommended psychological treatment for patients. This type of therapy can help patients recover from cognitive problems, such as depression, brain fog, and stress, caused by fibromyalgia.

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