Coping Strategies For Fibromyalgia Pain

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes chronic pain throughout the body. It can affect people of any age and can be difficult to manage. Coping with the pain associated with fibromyalgia can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help.  I will go over a few that are recommended by health professionals.

First, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis from a doctor or other healthcare professional. This will help to ensure that any pain management plan is tailored to an individual's specific needs. Having an accurate diagnosis can also help to ensure that any medications are effective in relieving pain.

Second, managing stress is key to managing fibromyalgia pain. Stress can worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia and increase the intensity of pain. Finding ways to reduce stress, such as mindfulness, yoga, or breathing exercises, can help to reduce the intensity of pain. Stress is the bodies natural reaction to protecting itself from danger. Stress can be an important factor in the development and exacerbation of fibromyalgia. Stress can cause an increase in pain, fatigue, and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. Stress can also make it harder for the body to respond to treatment and can lead to a decrease in the quality of life for those affected. It is important to find ways to manage stress and be aware of activities that could be causing it in order to help prevent and manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Stress-reduction activities such as, deep breathing can be beneficial in reducing stress and improving overall health.

“The longer and more often you feel stressed, the more your body pays the price. Your body never gets the rest it needs if it’s always on high alert.” (Mayo Clinic Guide To Fibromyalgia by Andy Abdil, M.D. and Barbara K. Bruce, PH.D., L.P.)

Third, getting regular exercise is important for managing fibromyalgia pain. Exercise can help to increase blood flow to the muscles, which can help to reduce pain. It is important to begin slowly and avoid activities that are too strenuous. Exercise can help reduce pain, improve sleep, and increase overall energy levels. However, it is important to note that people with fibromyalgia should start slow and gradually increase their activity level. Low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming can be beneficial for people with fibromyalgia. “Regular, low-intensity exercise, such as walking or warm-water exercise, is one of the best treatments for fibromyalgia. It helps decrease pain and stiffness, reduce stress, and may increase your sense of control over fibromyalgia.” https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/ss/slideshow-fibro-coping-tips

Additionally, it is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Exercise can be a great way to help manage fibromyalgia symptoms, but it is important to start slow and increase activity levels gradually. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said in a hadeeth, “Your body has a right over you ..." (Sahih Al Bukhaari) Everything must be done in moderation so as not to push yourself nor your body into harmful situations.

Fourth, finding support from family and friends can be beneficial in managing fibromyalgia pain. Having people to talk to and to provide emotional support can help to reduce stress and depression, which can in turn reduce the intensity of pain. Relationships can help manage fibromyalgia in a variety of ways. Having a strong support system can give someone living with fibromyalgia the strength and encouragement they need to manage their condition. Having a partner or family member that can provide emotional and physical support, such as helping with tasks or providing a listening ear, can be invaluable. Additionally, having a relationship with a doctor that understands can be a powerful tool in managing the condition. Finally, having meaningful relationships with friends that understand and accept the limitations of fibromyalgia can help provide a sense of normalcy and boost self-confidence. All of these relationships can help manage the physical and emotional challenges of living with fibromyalgia.

Finally, a healthy diet is important for managing fibromyalgia pain. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health. A healthy diet is an important component of managing fibromyalgia. Eating a balanced diet full of nutrient-rich foods can help to reduce inflammation and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. “Eating a balanced diet is a good idea for anyone, regardless of whether they have fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia can make you feel tired and worn out. Eating certain foods can give you more energy to get through your day. To slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, combine them with protein or fats. Choose fresh, whole foods high in fiber and low in added sugars.” However, getting the right mix of nutrients is particularly important to people with fibromyalgia, according to a 2018 literature review. https://www.healthline.com/health/fibromyalgia-diet-to-ease-symptoms#energy-rich-foods. Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains can help to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to cope with the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Additionally, limiting intake of processed and sugary foods can help to reduce inflammation and fatigue. Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D may also help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Eating a healthy diet can help to reduce the severity of fibromyalgia symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

“Some experts say that an anti-inflammatory diet can make a big difference to anyone with a chronic pain disorder. If you're not eating that way now, the traditional Mediterranean diet is a pretty safe bet. It might ease your fibromyalgia symptoms.” https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-and-diet

These are just a few of the strategies that can be used to help manage the pain associated with fibromyalgia. It is important to find what works best for you and to follow a plan that is tailored to your specific needs. With the right combination of treatments, it is possible to manage fibromyalgia pain and improve quality of life. I hope this post was able to help a little. When I was first diagnosed I knew nothing about fibromyalgia. I spent countless hours looking it up and trying to figure out what my next move should be. Just because we’ve been diagnosed with this painful condition doesn’t mean that we can’t take the means to try to manage it. Find what works best for you and stick with it. Nothing you do will fully take your pain away but even if it gives you a little relief it is worth it.