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Conditions > Fibromyalgia > Fibromyalgia Treatment > Fibromyalgia Fixes: Treatments Worth Trying
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Fibromyalgia Fixes: Treatments Worth Trying

By Marie Karns

While there is not as yet a fibromyalgia cure, the key to finding relief from the pain and fatigue is usually a combination of existing fibromyalgia treatments and therapies. It may take some trial and error to find an effective combination of treatments. Here are several options worth trying:

Medications

Currently, there is only one FDA-approved drug for use as a fibromyalgia treatment: pregabalin (Lyrica). Lyrica was originally developed as an anti-seizure medication, but has since shown benefits in relieving anxiety, some sleep problems and pain in people with fibromyalgia. Another anti-seizure medication, gabapentin (Neurontin) is sometimes used off-label (meaning it is used for but not FDA-approved for a condition) as a fibromyalgia treatment.

Four other types of medications have also been shown to provide symptom relief. Doctors can and do prescribe these medications to fibromyalgia patients, sometimes at doses specific for treating fibromyalgia symptoms. They include: 

•     Analgesics, including tramadol (Ultracet, Ultram)

•     Antidepressant medications, such as amitryptiline hydrochloride (Elavil, Endep), duloxetine (Cymbalta), fluoxetine (Prozac) and paroxetine (Paxil)

•     Muscle relaxants, such as cylobenzaprine (Cycloflex, Flexeril)

•     Fatigue medications, such as modafinil (Provigil)

 Other medications are being investigated for their usefulness in people with fibromyalgia, as well.

Exercise

Physical activity is has been shown to be a valuable fibromyalgia treatment, but activities must be chosen carefully and started at a low level.

“Deconditioned muscles are a potent pain generator in fibromyalgia,” says Kim Jones, PhD, a fibromyalgia researcher at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. “It’s not fair to tell people with fibromyalgia, ‘just exercise and you’ll feel better,’ because many people have tried that and they end up in bed for two weeks recovering,” she says.

“The trick is to exercise slowly enough that you can condition muscle without generating pain, and we’re finding perhaps this can be done more efficiently if people with fibromyalgia are given the drug pyridostigmine (Mestinon) prior to exercise,” she says.

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santa barbara chiropractor - paul zemell
16 Jan 2012, 15:34
There is a mass of undependable reporting of the benefits of the use of chiropractors to treat Fibromyalgia and CFS, although few clinical studies support these claims. Since the manipulative methodology of osteopathy and chiropractic have become ever closer, and the methods of osteopathy are now widely used by massage therapists, there are clinical studies involving OMT and massage reporting that it is safe to assume that the claims of chiropractors to treat fibromyalgia are accurate.
Molly
13 Nov 2011, 00:01
Hi I'm 18 and got diagnosed with Fibromyalgia at 17, I have a cyst on my ovary and Interstitial cystitis which i pee every minute to an hour including bed time. My bladder is painful and stings when i pee. It makes me so tired and exhausted everyday. I have also torn the ligaments in my wrist and damaged the cartilages.
I have had 6 steroid injections in my legs, One in my arm, One in my neck, One in the back and front which has helped the pain a lot, but having them be injected hurts so bad but is well worth it.
Fish Oil pills and glucosamine help the pain too.
hope you all feel better soon xx
Alannarae
08 Aug 2011, 22:50
I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia since 2008, and it's so bad, I spend many days in bed..many days.
I tried Vicodin, OxyContin, and Tylenol w/ Coedine #4...and they all made me so sick, I was hallucinating.
So my doctor put me on Ultram, up to 8 pills (50 mg.) a day. I take much more than prescribed, went to get detoxed but they don't do Ulrtam if it's for pain, only narcotics not taken for pain, for severe addicts. I'm scared...I can't decrease the amount I'm trying to go back down to 8 pills a day from around 14-16 pills a day. Anyone have any ideas? Ulram is much harder to go down on than all narcotics combined. Will someone who reads this and has abused Ultram please help me.
Thanks,
Allanarae
S
06 Jul 2011, 12:20
Low dose naltrexone saved my life. The End. Nothing has been more effective. No other medication or combination of treatments has ameliorated my pain and fatigue, and with virtually no side effects. It's also far cheaper than anything.
Chris
20 Jun 2011, 13:04
I have horrible pain all over. On top of that, I have 2 seriously messed up Lumbar disks, which accounts for the back pain & leg pain. I also have a cryptic cavernoma in my brain that bleeds sometimes. For the longest time I thought it was this blood vessel causing me pain, until an f-MRI in Dec. 2003, which showed the fibro. I really don't know what to say. I've tried Tramadol, Tylenol #3, Gabapentin (which promptly put me to sleep), Menthol sprays & patches & Cold packs & heating pad. They all give me some form of relief. The doctors have to be careful because of the blood vessel in my head & the meds I take for that. P.T. helped a little, especially the massages.
Beccie
03 Jun 2011, 11:32
Hello fellow sufferers,
I too am a fibro victim. I say victim because it has me in a chair all day with most activity paid for in the long run. I am now on a journey to fight for the right to smoke cannabis as a way to help the pain. I am taking 10 pills a day,2x's Opana for pain,narcotic, 2- 1/2 doses of Valium, narcotic, 800mg gabapentin, drug, 2 cymbalta, drug, 1 seroquel for sleep, drug. Can you see where I am going for this. Fibro pain can be tamed with medical cannabis smoked. It is a natural, 1000+ year old tested herb for pain, sleep, depression and the other bad things that happen with fibro. Right now I am having to see a dentist. Another whole story unto itself when you have fibro. This was a site for accupuncture. I want to see him for the fibro. i am not sure what to expect or what to ask him to do being an inexperienced in accupuncture. If someone out there knows what places to put those needles I would appreciate it. I know someone out there knows the exact # of the area where those little needles can help fibro. Please help. Thanks B Personally I would ask you to check out Medical Cannabis in your area and if it is not legal yet, please join the fight for this natural herb to be legalized and available for us who believe it to be the best thing since band-aids.
Trudy
31 Mar 2011, 08:47
I was diagnosed with FM at 21 - 10 years ago after a car accident. I tried many treatments over the years. I believe that Cymbalta is a fantastic treatment, and the only effective one so far. I was on it for 6 months and it reduced my pain by 95% after the first 3 weeks or so. It also improved my mood and sleeping pattern. I had to stop taking it a nausea and loss of appetite was a bad side effect for me.

I have tried: trigger point injections which help short term (a day or so) osteopathy doesn't do anything. de-nervation reduced my headaches for 6 months, but is a bit scary having nerves killed in your spine whilst being awake.

Currently I am having accupuncture and taking chinese herbs, he hopes to cure my symptoms within 6 months.

Capscacin cream helps, but it is applied to the skin and can feel like it is burning.

I also do stretches in 32degree celsius water, yoga and strengthening exercises which I believe are essential to keep the muscles strong.

Sometimes essential oils being burnt can help with sleep, try peppermint, lemongrass and basil (halve the basil amount to the other 2)

Hope one of these suggestions help.
Kat
20 Feb 2011, 21:08
I know they say there isn't a cure, I disagree strongly. They just don't understand the issue at all. I have been well for 11 years now and I had very severe symptoms. And no there is no medication or special diet whatsoever.

I read a book called The Mindbody Prescription by Dr. John Sarno (Rusk Institute, New York University Medical Center)and saw a local doctor in the L.A. area who studied under him. If you call Dr. Sarno's office they can tell you who the closest doctor is to you.

Basically it is a true understanding about what is causing the pain and other symptoms. It's the conflict between the unconscious and conscious mind. The unconscious is trying to push feelings to the surface and the conscious is trying to keep them down. In order to distract you from the feelings the mind causes symptoms so they don't come to consciousness.

Now even if you are skeptical, really do you have anything to lose by changing your thoughts and shift your attention from the physical to the emotional? There is nothing invasive, it is a thought process.

This is no joke, after reading the book and seeing one of the doctors in less than a week I was 80% symptom free. Now I am 95% symptom free. I can't tell you enough how this saved my life. I know everyone puts in their two cents, but Dr. Sarno really understands the cause and the cure is not difficult. Here I am 11 years later after going through this process and can do WHATEVER I want.

Kat
Rhonda
09 Jan 2011, 16:26
I was diagnosed with fibro 23 years ago and have tried many doctors and meds. I watched a young girl on you tube with a "cure." She held up a bottle of calcium/magnesium/zinc and said to take according to instructions along with a B complex vitamin(during morning) and to take 5HTP at night. I tried her "cure" and I have improved vastly...the girl said she took 12 different meds and used a walker before her husband did internet research for a "cure." I have also been drinking a greens drink that seems to be helping.
Karen Keim
02 Jan 2011, 16:43
I have fibromyalgia and RA, and used to suffer a lot from muscle spasms. Let me explain that I am on a regimen of calcium, magnesium, and vit. D for osteoporosis. When I read several months ago that calcium and magnesium are not effectively absorbed if taken at the same time, I bought new pills and scheduled taking the minerals at separate times during the day. I discovered that this change made a lot of difference in the tightness of my muscles and brought relief from the spasms that often included a "charlie-horse" in one of my legs. The doses are 600 mg of calcium (with D) morning and evening, and 300 mg. of magnesium at noon.

I don't know if this would be true for everyone, but it is worth trying.
Sandra
26 Dec 2010, 06:51
Sue, I was diagnosed w/ chronic urethritis, which my urologist tells me that people who have a lot of stress, or are sensitive to stress (me) tend to get. He knows I was diagnosed w/ fibro about 20 years ago. He didn't make a direct link between the fibro and the urethritis, but I wonder if it's one of those "peripheral" diagnoses that tend to accompany the fibro.
The urethritis behaves just like a bladder infection (with bleeding, too), and responds to a med regime just like a bladder infection, but the organisms they test for in the urine are not there. It may be some other organism which also responds to the antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, but doesn't show up in the testing.
sue
14 Dec 2010, 23:25
With my fibro I too have the pain,fog, insomnia and depression. I also have severe allergies, chronic urinary and sinus infections. My dr says the infections are from the fibro.Does anyone else have these symptoms?
Sharon
26 Nov 2010, 21:25
Have Lupus/Arthritis/Fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia diagnosed over ten years ago. Doctors constantly giving medications,not much help with other methods of dealing with pain. Life very different now, before extremely active now I sit a lot, hurts to move too much. Massage therapy does help with the right person and helps me move better. Good luck with your pain.
David Dreyer
24 Nov 2010, 16:36
So far it doesn't seem like too many, if any, guys have posted on here who are dealing with fibromyalgia. Well, I am. I have seen a few ladies who are also having problems with husbands who don't understand. I'd be happy to talk with them and explain things in terms they'd understand. :-)
I'm pretty young myself, 30 in January, and was officially diagnosed earlier this year, but my doc suspects that I had juvenile onset fibro based on my med history. I've been on gabapentin for a number of months and that has certainly helped with sleeping, which is the first and easiest thing to fix. I've added a low-dose of Gaba along with a Super B-Complex vitamin to help during the day, and it's made a HUGE difference. I'm working on adding the slow increase exercise to the mix (I can use the weight loss too), but the weather here in Northern Utah makes that difficult. Anyway, I'm happy to converse with anybody about stuff that works. :-) (@jedi_wizard on Twitter)
Janet
23 Nov 2010, 18:17
My Dr retired. New Dr doesn't believe in pain meds. says Lyrica and Lexapro are all I need. 300 mg a day of Lyrica has me falling asleep. Take more tylenol now than when I took Darvocet! Darvocet actually helps. Now I'm suppposed to sleep, work etc... in pain. Almost as bad as when first diagnosed. I want my narcotic back. I didn't abuse it. Rarely even took amount prescribed for the day. Sorry so negative. Just needed to vent. My husband is great. most nights he makes dinner. youngest daughter doesn't always understand, but maybe it'll get better. The good news is I'mt feel kinda useless at times.

Shari B.
21 Nov 2010, 11:19
Now Cymbalta is also approved for use for Fibro. I just started taking it 2 days ago, and am already seeing improvement. I have less dibilitating pain and feel more awake when I get up in the morning. My energy levels are better, too. We'll see how it goes. I have high hopes, as I'm really worn out from being in so much pain for so many years.
Sylvia
20 Nov 2010, 21:19
I suffered with degenerative arthritis for many years and severe muscle spasm in my back and shoulders.The muscle spasms felts like someone pressing marbles into my back. Sometimes I could not even lay on the bed. Finally, was diagnosed with fibromyalgia about 8 years ago. I do not take medications- and the only thing that has helped me has been massages. Had to have a massage once a week when I couldn't tolerate it.This year I have discovered the healing properties of essential oils. I use Young Living oils, pan-away, valor, frankincense. I have had fewer episodes and the pain as leveled off, to the point where sometimes I don't even feel it. I feel like I am being healed little by little from this horrible condition! My massage therapist who has witnessed this wants to try the essential oils on her other clients. My suggestion to anyone suffering from fibro is to give it a try.
Jessica
19 Nov 2010, 19:38
Hi Girls,
I am so very grateful to come ac crossed this thread to see that other people are dealing with similar issues and then to also see what you are currently doing to cope with your pain. The only difference that I could see is I am young, 25years old and was diagnosed with Fibro at age 22 following a severe labor. I have alot more bad days, then good. And unfortunately, this disease is really costing me my marriage, and also I am loosing my self-esteem, and motivation. Not having any motivation..is preventing me from doing fun activities with my daughter. I desperately want to-but I just cant get myself out of bed some days! And my husband just doesnt understand. Comments he has made are: "How can everything hurt all over your body? Why is it everyday is a bad day? How come one day this hurts and the next day that hurts? So are we going to have to live like this the rest of our lives? GET out of bed, stop being a ZOMBIE!

I think this is where my self-esteem has been lost, and then with him not understanding. Including the rest of my family as well-in not understanding, or not caring.

I guess I am just lost-and need some input or suggestions--maybe a motivation pep-talk...
Gail
19 Nov 2010, 17:14
Hello everyone! I have been suffering with generalized muscle pain, fatigue, headaches (migraines, & tension) for about 11 years! Some doctors have told me I have Fibro, some have said RA, and some don't know. My sedrate is always elevated (recently was 91), and my vita D levels are always low despite me taking 5,000 IU's a day!! I have never had a proper exam for fibro either. No one has checked my trigger points! My other tests for RA or Lupus have all been negative. Recently I have had spasms in my upper left back. Had a deep-tissue massage that was a big mistake cuz I felt like my back was beat up for 3 days!!! And they didn't get the knot loose. I try heat on it which helps some for a little while. I take Ultram for the pain which gets the edge off so I can function. Ive tried Vicodin which doesnt work. Percocet works but my doc will not prescribe both Ultram and percocet for me! I have thought to see a pain mgmt doctor. Can anyone tell me what a pain magmt doc would be able to do for me? I work FT as an RN so 12-hr shifts are rough on me...plus I work night-shift! Getting adequate sleep is a challenge. I honestly do not know what it's like to feel "good"! I have pain everyday. Sometimes its mild..sometimes there's back spasms or headaches, or sometimes it's so bad even my clothes hurt to be on!!! Glad to talk with others who understand my pain!
Nancy
19 Nov 2010, 10:09
I hear your pain. I also have been suffering from Fibro for about 9 years now. My Doctor at the time diagnois me with Fibro and sent be to physcial therapy, because I had a pain in my shoulder that would not go away. I was told by the PT that all Doctor use that term when they can't find the problem. So I just blew it off. Then I began my journey of pain here and there in body. The Fibro had me from work to bed every day for 6 months (I didn't mention I was working part time). I was seeing a chiropractor who referred me to a massage therapist, who helped me using pressure point massage and prayer meditation. Plus a supportive group of women, helped be get through that tough patch. I woke one morning 6 months later and felt brand new. From that time on I would just have small flare up, especially around my menstrual time. But this year 2010 I have been in so much pain everyday and night. I have a new Doctor who has been so supportive and has ruled out all he can. He sent me to an RA and I was told I have Fibro. My job has become difficult to manage. Do any of you going through this have some advice on how to handle your job? I read that one works on her feet all day and won't sit, because she can't get up. That's me, but I sit and struggle to get up, even though I am on a timer to get up every 30 min. That is what the Doctor recommended and it's in writing at my job. Right now I don't care about anything. I have also put on 60lbs and feel terrible about. I hear your pain!
cindy james
19 Nov 2010, 07:36
Hi, I see there are many out there with horrible pain as I am feeling. However, I have gone to Dr.'s who keep dancing around my problem. No one has yet to tell me I have Fibromyalgia. I have severe back pain and no one will give me an MRI. I have had an X-ray and they told me I had RA. So, I went to the arthritis Dr. who said I don't have RA. Now they are sending me to a cancer Dr. for pete's sake. From what I am reading, I seriously believe I have Fibromyalgia. I don't know what to do or how to convince my Dr. to test for that. Any ideas?
Nancy
18 Nov 2010, 09:32
This comment is mostly in response to Carol, who wrote in on November 16th at 21:00.

I'm 39 years old and I have dermatomyositis with pulmonary fibrosis, vasculitis and arthritis. The pain I have is very similar to fibromyalgia, so I sympathize with everyone here. It's horrible; like being trapped inside a medieval iron maiden, but with millions of tiny, dull needles instead of the huge spikes.

Because we have these 'invisible' diseases, people don't believe us since we generally 'look' okay. Except for the 80 pounds I put on from taking corticosteroids (just one of the meds I take), I look 'fine' - for a fat person. I don't have a horn growing out of my head and my skin isn't rotting, so I must be okay. Right.

I know how you feel, Carol, and I too am wondering if I should stay in my relationship (albeit for somewhat different reasons). A friend of mine recently asked me, 'have you considered that maybe you're not getting any better because you're with him?' Food for thought.

Maybe your husband doesn't really 'get it'. Ask him to really overdo a physical activity (that he doesn't normally do) for one day and then ask him how he feels the next day. Then tell him that's how you feel ALL the time, ALL over. Maybe he'll have a lightbulb moment. Maybe not. You could go to couples counselling, if you haven't already.

When you got married, 'in sickness and in health' were undoubtedly in the vows... if he has no compassion and patience and is only preoccupied with his needs, then maybe you need to start planning your new life without him. You should NOT be dreading going to sleep in your own bed because of him. You are not an object to be used at his whim. If he starts saying things like, 'well if you don't put out, I know other women who will,' that's emotional extortion and it's abusive. A good man will NEVER say things like that to a woman he loves. If you're afraid of what he might do, you need to get out.

Sex is a topic that should be discussed more - too many people are too embarrassed to talk to their doctors about it, including myself. Women often put out just to keep the peace or because they're afraid their partners will leave them. That's so wrong. And so sad.
Teresa
18 Nov 2010, 04:17
I was recently diagnosed with Fibromyalgia after trying to find out for a year at the Spine clinic I go to why I was in so much pain. Before they finally decided that is what it was I was diagnosed with the following: bulging disc at L4-L5, Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction, Osteoporosis, Arthritis (back), nerve injury in both calves, sciatic nerve pain. I have knots from the Fibro all over my body and even have one now that has popped up on the bottom of my right foot. I am 46, married to an incredible man who encouraged me to go to the clinic and has been with me all the way. He is very understanding and I am very lucky to have him with me. I am currently on pain meds, muscle relaxer (robaxin), cymbalta, naproxen. I tried Neurotin and Lyrica and neither worked, so I have been on the Cymbalta for a week now and so far the side effects haven't been unbearable.
I am unable to work due to when I stand to do dishes/cook or anything my back starts to burn and hurt so bad after 15 minutes that I have to sit/lie down. The insomnia is driving me crazy, so very tired. I am going to try to file for disability as I am currently receiving unemployment.

I love this forum as it really helps knowing that so many people out there understand and know what you are talking about when you have days you do not want to get out of bed. There are good days but I just want the pain to go away.

Tammy
17 Nov 2010, 21:54
Just like all of you, I had fibro LONG before I was diagnosed. I finally got the official diagnosis 12 years ago last fall, a month after my father passed away. All this time, my family, both my children and husband, and my sisters, mother and in-laws, don't think anything is wrong. I "look just fine". I turned 50 last May, but feel much older than that. I take 15 different prescriptions a day, not including supplements. 95% of the time, I have such trouble with fibro-fog that I think I have the beginning of Alzheimer's. It runs pretty heavy in my family, so I am not totally off base with that thought. In addition to the medication, I have found alternative medicine. I am fortunate enough to live where there is an Integrative Medicine Clinic that takes the best options from both Eastern and Western medicine. I have had acupuncture, biofeedback, and massage therapy. I am fortunate in that my insurance company covers these treatments as long as they are done in a clinical setting. I work in a scrapbook store and am on my feet all the time. Some days, I never sit down when I take a break, because I know I will not be able to get up again. I have learned that narcotics do not help at all. It is so nice to know that there are a lot of people out there just like me. I will keep each and every one of you in my prayers.
Gloria Thompson
17 Nov 2010, 17:00
Fibro,fibro,fibro. If I had to put a name to call my life...it would be FIBRO. It is such a misunderstood dicease,especially by the medical field. I know in the past 12 years so much more information is coming out on fibro. I remember when the DR. told me I had fibro, I left crying and cried for 3 days. He made me feel so insignificant & like I had a mental problem. I did! Its called Fibro! Tried Lyrica for 4 yrs., my weight went up to almost 200. So I talked to the Dr. and they doubled my dosage. Gained more weight. couldn't read anything cause of blured vision, couldn't do crafts or drive. Weaned my self off, doing much better, started chiropatric treatments, has helped greatly. Amazon has some wonderful books on fibro, just ordered 3, made me a peaceful fibro room in the back of my home, so I can read,educated myself,meditate and relax.Will let you know how it's going.LOVE you all...
Carol
17 Nov 2010, 15:20
I have fibro, but after reading all the other comments, I think I must have a mild case. I have massage therapy whenever I can afford it...that seems to help, plus soaking in a tub of hot water. God bless all of you who are suffering with this disease.
Brenda
16 Nov 2010, 22:59
I have Fibromyalgia and it is true that people "just don't get it". I have found that what helps me the most is water therapy and water exercise. The water is like "medicine" for me. It relaxes my muscles and has a calming all over effect. Try it - you'll like it! I guarantee. Ask a PT professional to suggest the proper exercises for you ( as I did) and work all the muscle areas into a state of relaxation. I go five mornings a week and very rarely miss because I see the difference when I do have to miss a day. Good luck to those of you who try it.
Peggy
16 Nov 2010, 22:27
1st, I'm sorry to hear so many others suffer as I. I was diagnioised back in 1988, and now 11 years ago i had to go on disabilty. I agree no one understands but for those of us with it and we just have to be there for each other. I have found that many of us also have the same other illness as well and I agree the warm water program works well but I have moved and now don't have a place that has a warm pool near me. I just wish others would understand, I don't think any of us want pity but understanding. WE really don't want to feel this way, I miss having a normal life but I try to do what I can but have also found doing things in modoration is best and pacing myself. My prayers are with everyone. thank you for writting, it is comforting to know your not alone or crazy.
carol
16 Nov 2010, 21:00
Those of you with fibro who are married or in relationships are you able to have sex and if not, how does your partner react to that?
My husband "says" he understands yet he expects me to be "ready, willing and able" for that - It has gotten to the point where I am starting to dread bed time and the arguments and am wondering if I should just get a divorce so I don't have to go through even more pain than I already have on a daily basis.
Susan
16 Nov 2010, 20:51
I will not regale you with all of my other health problems. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 1982. At that time, the neurologist described it as "arthritis in the muscles". After multiple therapies, including pain management (during which I became dependent on narcotics and, after being unable to swallow due to the narcotics slowing my digestion), I went through withdrawal to get off the meds. I had seen a chiropractor in the past, but not regularly. The thing that helped me the most and reduced my pain the most was therapeutic massage immediately followed by a chiropractic adjustment. As in on of the above comments, my back is like an immovable brick. Without the deep tissue massage, my chiropractor could not adjust my back. I finally worked out to once a month therapy. Unfortunately, I had to quit the deep tissue massage as I had a stent placed in one of my coronary arteries and had to be on Plavix for a year. Here in KY, licensed massage therapists are not considered providers and as such insurance will not cover their services. However, they ARE considered providers in many states. CHECK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY ABOUT THIS. During the time of regular therapy and chiropractics, I neve had to take ANYTHING for pain or muscle spasm!!! I was able to do almost everything ( certain things would put me in be due to failed back surgery syndrome...like vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping). Now...I try to smile before I get out of bed and only take pain meds when I have something physically trying to do during the day. Muscle relaxants, however, I must take every night or I have spasms between my ribs during the day. I truly hope this helps any or some of you out there. Pain management just caused increased tolerance to the narcotics leading to increased dosages. When I quit pain management, I was taking long-acting morphine 60mg twice a day and lortab 10mg three times a day and was STILL in pain. It can be controlled med-free if your insurance covers licensed massage therapy and chiropractic adjustment. My prayers and positive thoughts are with you all.
carol
16 Nov 2010, 20:38
After 8 years of brain fog so that I had to quit my job, severe dizziness so that I had to crawl to the bathroom, pain from my feet, to my shoulders, and the most horrible constant debilitating fatigue, I was finally diagnosed with fibro/ arthritis, severe osteoporosis as well as many other disorders like acid reflux, high blood pressure, vit d deficiency and tingling and numbness of feet & fingers. After trying Lyrica, cymbalta, and other antidepressants, neurontin, none of which helped, I finally went to a pain management clinic and am on the dreaded narcotic medication. As scary as it is at least now I can shower, and take care of my personal needs as well as my own housework. I won disability based on depression, anxiety and the combination of all of the above disorders so although most doctors won't give narcotics I am glad I found somewhere as my quality of life has gone from 0 to an 8. I feel your pain those of you who are still searching for something to give you your life back. I heard Sevella works wonders for some people. I recently tried that and had to stop as it drove my blood pressure off the charts so beware of that.
Diane Strain, Boston MA
16 Nov 2010, 20:38
My God, I believe I've read everyone's posting regarding Fibromyalgia. I was diagnosed w/it over 20 years ago, I'm 58 now.
Also Lyme Disease shows in my testing. Hmm, other symptoms, as well. I've found that taking an anti-inflammatories helps me, and not being too sedentary. I need to stretch, cannot do a heavy exercise routine. Intesting to me is that I read many have trouble sleeping. I have (am!). Didn't realize that was a symptom. Also, feel as though I'm coming "down with something", body aches, feverish, chilled, so on. I manage to pretty much do what I need to do, usually I'm moving about most of the day; however, at times, I DEFINITELY NEED A NAP!
Thing that bugs me about Fibro is that there is not actual test.....the doctor has to come to that conclusion from hearing a patient's symptoms. God Bless you all!
Kay Day
16 Nov 2010, 20:32
Hi Kay #1 (74, fibro for past 3 years) and Kay #2 (54, lupus and fibro)
from Kay #3 (67, fibro diagnosed 13 years ago, osteoarthritis diagnosed 10 years ago, spinal degeneration and osteopenia diagnosed 6 years ago),

Not only do we have a name in common, we all three have fibro plus other medical disorders. Isn't it wonderful to find a forum where we can discuss our medical issues and be understood?!

Kay #1, what you have with your knee sounds very similar to the knee bursitis I had 4 years ago. It was due to pressure on the lumbar nerves from the spinal degeneration. I had been attending the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program for 2 years, and six weeks of physical therapy helped tremendously. Occasionally when my knee bothers me, I start doing the exercises again, and the knee is better. When I overdo by lifting objects I shouldn't be lifting or standing too long, I have to return to the physical therapy exercises I did for six weeks to relieve my back pain. Usually within two to three days (combined with stopping the lifting and/or standing), I can function again.

I now teach the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, and it has helped reduce my pain level from all my medical problems (too many to list here) tremendously. I am much more functional because of exercising regularly three times a week. The participants in my class sometimes think I'm joking when I tell them the reason I teach the class is to make me do it. I don't exercise at home on my own.

You should talk with your arthritis aquatics leader about your knee pain. She may be able to help you modify some of the exercises so that you're not aggravating your knee. We exercise instructors must be re-certified by the Arthritis Foundation every three years. We are always taught that we must know our participants medical histories enough that we can modify the exercises for the participants so that the exercises don't aggravate a medical condition. I have some participants who do not do several exercises at all because their doctor has told them it would harm them more than help them.

I empathize with both of you. I have been where you are, and sometimes I go into a flare just as each of you has. It's part of the illness arthritis. My husband took a new job in August, and we moved into an apartment because the house we bought needed a lot of work. I've overdone it a lot, had days of tears and pain, and finally remembered to do the right exercises to relieve the pain. And also remembered to stop doing those things which aggravate my pain.

Kay #2, don't wait for your funeral for someone else to speak up for you. No one will. Write your own eulogy and find a trusted friend to read it for you. Better yet, find a support group (there are several online)where you can discuss your feelings.

Gentle hugs to both of you. May you find some way to ease your pain, both physical and mental. My thoughts are with you.

Kay #3


Verna Champagne
16 Nov 2010, 20:25
I that other's have written. have fribro. really like the information.
Donna E. Helms
16 Nov 2010, 19:44
I was diagnosed with Lupus/Rheumatoid Arth./Fibromyalgia over 20 yrs. ago.I am 53 now.The common theme among all of us is PAIN!!!!! I have tried so many things,Lyrica made me gain almost 100 lbs. !! There are a lot of med.s that we end up having to take that seem to have that effect.Yhen there are the secondary things that come from those med.s, such as osteporosis,vision problems,kidney problems,liver problems,etc...The best thing I have done recently is go to a pain specialist.I am at the point where I will try just about anything,as long as it is legal!!I am currently on 15 different prescriptions,over 26 pills a day!!!Plus the laxitives it takes to keep from setting up like concrete!!Pain meds are the worst for that.I hate it all,but you do what you have to,just to function!!!
cathy
16 Nov 2010, 18:58
I feel for everyone who has posted something on this site. I was diagnoised with fibromyalgia three years ago.First of all I contracted Lyme disease at the highest level and was treated for several months. then along with being deeply depressed I started hurting all over constantly and some days I was hardly able to get out of bed and with the pain being so great in my feet and legs.
The pain then started in my joints and hands which is now diagnoised as rhematoid arthritis.I am taking Lyrica,cymbalta,mirapex.loratabs for pain and two kinds of blood pressure medicine.and as far as sleeping,not! I sleep a total of one and ahalf hour to three hours a night. and that even with a sleeping pill. Well good luck to everyone. I'll remember you all in my prayers.
Rose R. Goebel
16 Nov 2010, 18:26
I found this site by accident, so glad. At 26 I was diag. with arthritis. I refused meds, I told Dr. that this was an old persons disease,by the time I was old I would be immune to it.So I have had pain for years,so thankful I have my Dad's pain tolerence.In 1984 I was dx with a thyroid disorder called Hoshshimotos disease.Was put on Synthroid. In 1993 I was Dx with Menieres Disease, I went through hell with the vertigo,hosp several times it got so bad.Finally agreed to have surg. on my ear, that cost me my hearing in my right ear.
It took time to get over the effects of vertigo.I had to go on meds for panic attacks. Was Dx.with Fibro 1996,was living with pain,finally gave in to the meds.In 1997 I was found to have kidney cancer,lost rt kidney.It was a tumor that was incapsilated and had not spread, so no chemo.I had worked at a job this whole time. I had hid any of this,but I had to tell employer about cancer.I thought everything would settle down, not so. In 2002 I was dx. with Poly,& peripheral neurophothy, lost feeling in feet,then legs. To make it worse, my 1 kidney started to shut down due to pain med. So now I go with no pain meds. As of April 2010 I am on infusion theraphy treatment with Gammunex,it was 2X's a week, then 1X's, now 1 every 3 weeks.It takes 6+ hours to have the infusion. Still no pain meds. It is hard, if any Dr. or anyone knows of a pain med.that I could take and not lose my 1 kidney, it would be a blessing.I never want dialysis. This site is a great place to help a person who thinks they are alone in this world.
Rose Marie Baglio
16 Nov 2010, 18:09
It is my belief that those of us who suffer from Fibromyalgia, are probably born with it. It maintains a low profile until some major physical, mental and/or emotional stressor kicks it into high gear.
Researchers are for example, finding that many sufferers have experienced abuse or a serious car accident. And since Fibromyalgia is usually accompanied by many other medical problems, there is no diagnostic test for it. Other things are ruled out until that is all that's left. This is also why there is no set treatment method.
After I was officially diagnosed in 2003, it took a team of doctors and two years time to actually figure out the best combinations of medications AND dosages for me. Each case is different, and each person's reaction to the treatments is also different. All of this further compounds the problems.
Keep a journal of the different things you try, and whether or not they work for you. As frustrating as it is, don't be looking for a cure anytime soon.
Generally speaking, avoid stress and cold. Do your best to stay upbeat. Eat a well-balanced diet. Be careful not to overdo on the days you feel a little bit better. Rest during the day when you have the chance. Accept your limitations or you'll only make matters worse. Educate yourself as much as possible.
rodyanne
16 Nov 2010, 17:17
I was diagnosed with fibro 8 years ago. At first it was thought I had RA and I was on all types of medication for it. None of them worked. The doctor then put me on Lyrica and Cymbalta. Many years later I read the complete description of Lyrica on its website. Turns out I was allergic to most of the ingredients in it. It took me 3 - 4 weeks to come off it. When I did so most of my pain disappeared. Amazing.
Nanci
16 Nov 2010, 16:26
Dear Amanda; Find a new boyfriend..If he doesn't have compasion for you now..he surely won't later. Fibromyalgia is a real condotion. Even though doc's don't know alot about it doesn't make it any less painful. ALot of my family and friends don't have a clue as to the physical and emotional pain that I suffer through. I feel that I haqve this condotionj most of my life but who knew what it was. I am sure most of you were told to get over it or take more pain meds or even that you had better see a Phsyc doc as they thought it was mostly in your head...To my fellow sufferers...Who in their right mind would even want this condition for 1 minute...Only those who have it really understand it..Maybe someone in medicine who is afflicted will try to figure it out. In the meantime I take Celebrex for my arthritis and I have been getting massage again. I f i could afford it i would get one at least every 2 weeks. I know what you all say about the muscles getting as hard as rocks. I have had cervical surgery to fuse 3 discs and alleviate pain and numbness. Was diagnosed with Spinal Stenosis, have a slipped disc in my lower back and have body aches constantly. Some days i don't geet out of bed...not for lack of trying..prozac for depression...I know they are advertising lyrica for this condition but i try to limit my intake of meds as long as I can. Heat,stim and massage seem to really help. Swimming is great but I don't have a place to go to on a regular basis. Warm dry weather is ideal but in the Northeast that is only during certain times of the year. Lets all pray for someone to care enough to help us all with our pain....Until a cure is found...we don't have too many options..but lets keep on encouraging each other and keep our spirits up...Have a Blessed Day
Debbie
16 Nov 2010, 16:03
Wayne Alves,
Ditto to all the things that are bothering you. Been there done that. I suggest you go to Social Security and apply for disability. They will send you to one of their doctors and he in turn will reccomend wheather or not you qualify. This is just a suggestion you might try. Good luck.
Carl
16 Nov 2010, 15:40
I have fibromyalgia and Lyrica does no good -except to releive anxiety when taken in high doses --also there is memory loss and sexual function--also have had two back operations for stenosis which have failed to help back --where can I go to get help? someone please help me --
Sandy H
16 Nov 2010, 15:19
Response to Wayne Alves:

You should check with your county health department or your doctor for referral to see if there is a health plan in your area for the uninsured. We have two plans in our county that can be applied for and it has saved us a great deal of money. You may have to wait for openings as they do fill up. Also you should go to your Department of Human Services to apply for financial, food and health help. I'm sure you can find help there.
Wayne Alves
16 Nov 2010, 14:29
I have been experiencing chronic daily pain throughout my entire body. I have also been diagnosed with degenerative disc, joint, and bone disease. I have also been diagnosed with Chronic daily headaches / migraines. I have a bone spur that is at the base of my skull that is so close to my spinal cord that not one neurologist will touch, so because of it, I have to live with these daily headaches that it is causing. I have also been diagnosed with arthritis (Osteoarthritis) about a year ago. I have pain in my hands and wrist, neck, back, and down both of my legs.

I have applied for disability and SSI, and still they will not approve me for either. I have problems walking, standing, bending, and sitting for too long because i end up in pain. I have been out of work for over a year now and can't get unemployment, SSI, or even state (Maine)help with their health care program. I really need help to ease some of this pain that i am in. I also need help on getting some kind of health care because the bills are stacking up. If you know of anything or can suggest anything that will help me, i would greatly appreciate it a lot.

Thanks,
Wayne Alves
Linda Kanagawa
16 Nov 2010, 13:11
11/16/2010

My diagnosis for fibromyalgia was in 1987.I am now 70. I remember as a child discovering that I was always in pain. The worst aspect for me has been my brain going to sleep for days and a lifetime of insomnia.

The first time I went to a rheumatologist in 2000, I explained that I had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia by a University rheumatologist in 1987. He first comment was that he didn't believe in fibromyalgia. I found a new doctor. Before I started medication, I would get piercing pains in my wrists and hands. I later found I had rheumatoid arthritis, but now my medication helps somewhat. My most important medication is my nightly ambien. It's wonderful to fall asleep for three or four hours at a time. I was also glad to find there was a reason for me to be brain dead for several days at a time.

For the past five years I had had mouth pain. My dentist suggested I had burning mouth syndrome. I read about it on the Internet, and I've consulted with my dentist, internist, 2 rheumatologists, 2 neurologists, ENT, and 4 psychiatrists. Apparently nothing can be done for it. It starts burning in the p.m. until I go to sleep and it is every single day. The newspaper doctor calls it physician's and patient's worst nightmare because nothing has been known to work. I think relief is dependent on going into deep sleep because I feel great when I wake up and think, "My mouth doesn't hurt now."
Kay Babineaux
16 Nov 2010, 13:10
This is for the Lady named "Kay" and by the way thats my name too! "Smile"
I have Systemic Lupus and Fibromyalgia, High blood pressure, IBS, Barrets asofigus, COPD, Migrains and of corse the Horrible Cronic pains and over all ill feeling through out my body that goes along with it all.
Yes Its very hard to make family and the one's who claim they love you to understand what we are going through with our cronic illnesses. No one seams to understand or cares enough to. I have been accused by several family members that I am Lazy and "Faking it for attention" That has also caused me a few tears and very hurt feelings throuout my life, but I have learned not to complain in their presence if at all possible and try to avoid seeing them as much as possible to avoid myself any more anguish caused by their lack of knowledge and for some just pure ignorance! I pray one day at my furneral some one will speak up for me and Tell of my pains and hurt feelings for those who refuse to understand what all I have been through, but that of corse just might be wishfull thinking on my part. Ive been told by many people that I don't look sick and was even belittled by my own Mother and sister more times than I can count. I moved to the country and stay mostly to my self for that reason. I went for years not knowing what was wrong with me and spent endless dollars looking for a doctor that would care enough to run the needed tests to find out what was really wrong. Sence I was 22 years old I went through countless Medical doctor's, Sugar pills and shrugged shoulder's until I went to the 3rd Rheumatloogist and after she tested me for Lupus twice she was the only one who had the knowledge to tell me not to take even an asprin for three weeks and she would retest me for Lupus and bingo she found I had Systemic Lupus the worse one to have. and several years later another one found I also had fibromyalgia. I am now 54 years old I was diagnosed with Lupus 6 years ago and the fibromyalgia 2 years ago. I have had cronic pain sence I was a child. And I have records a foot think that no one cares to read that proves that Im not faking! I understand where you are comming from completely!
Hugs!
Kay
Amanda
16 Nov 2010, 12:32
I am so glad to see that my husband is not alone. I have family that does not believe that his pain is unbearable and puts him in the bed every atfernoon when he comes home from work. There are days when I call him a blow fish because he is so swollen. Dry heat has helped him but it has to be constant heat which is impossible at times. He has crohn's, fibromyalgia, COPD, and high blood pressure so, the combo of meds that he has to take for other issues does not help much at times. However, he has been on Remicade for over two years and he can definately tell the difference in his pain after his infusions. If we try to stretch the infusions longer than about 8 weeks apart, he starts rapidly going down hill on the activity level. Unfortunately, he must continue to work as long as possible until I am able tograduate nursing school and get a descent job. We still have 3 of our 5 children at home and my job alone will not make the bills. He does the best he can everyday but pays for it every night. It is good to know that there are other alternatives to meds that have seemed to work for other fibro patients. We will definatley be getting in touch with a message therapist and an aquacise class to see if this helps any. I truely understand what each and everyone of you go through and I pray that each of you keep fighting and don't give up. I admire my husband for fighting the way he has to keep on going.
Kathy
16 Nov 2010, 12:14
As I sit here reading some of these posts, it gives me a little hope...I suffered thru pain for a long time before my nueroligist finally diagnosed me with fibro......I felt like I was going crazy and that maybe it was all just in my head.....I was already being treated for painful hands and feet, but the pain in the rest of my body can be almost overwhelming at times.....I have arthritis and bone spurs all up and down my spine plus herniated discs. I have a pacemaker and copd ( have never smoked in my life) I have severe asthma and allergies. I tried physical therapy, it really helped. The therapist could not believe the muscles in my back, he said they were all as hard as the pavement...due to the fibro. I take lyrica and sevella at this time and it makes moving bearable, I am a very active person but obese, I have to stay active, am afraid if I sit long, I won't be able to move.....I guess after all of this rambling I have done I am just curious. Does anyone suffering thru fibro have trouble getting family to uderstand that you just can't function as efficiently as you used to....I guess because I do stay active and don't complain too much about the pain that they think it's ok..I would love to talk to others with this problem, I feel very alone in this even tho I know alot of people live with it just like me.. Anyone with any suggestions, please respond. Thanks and I hope everyone has a great, pain free day.
Gary
16 Nov 2010, 12:06
I am a 60 year old man who's life came to a screeching halt.After MRI was discovered I had a flattened nerve root.Most pain is in my spine and both legs.Trying to live like this I soon found out I have disks in my neck now which makes my hands numb.After two years I was prescribed Lyrica along with soma,norco,and methadone.I now can function better then I ever did,but PAIN IS STILL THERE.Just takeing a shower is a chore.I'm doing a plant based diet,non fried food,and the least amount of activity.Exercise was keeping me in bed,so with all of the above I just put about,prepare meals,and hope it doesn't rain.Good luck to all,this is now my third year.If there are any idea's,really would love to hear them
Kay
16 Nov 2010, 11:48
I am 74, & have had fibro. only for the past 3 years, that seem like forever.
I am on Lyrica & flexarol & Ativine.
Right now I am having the worse flare up
ever Plus a strange thing.
I have pain in one knee that when I turn
the knee it is so severe it brings tears to my eyes.
The pain runs upward to my groin.
Stairs are a killer. More than 2 & I am done.
I do aqua artheritis arobics 3 x a week &
getting there is a problem.
I also have severe arthritis in my back.
So walking is out.
Has anyone had this type knee pain?
Linda
16 Nov 2010, 10:08
Great article. Something that I would add and hold right up there with "medication" is Medical Massage. I still have pain and have done everything listed here, but Medical Massage was an absolute breakthrough for me. My therapist is exceptional and works WITH me. I let her know how strong her massage can be and she responds to my body..... as my body responds to her. It's been an awesome help and I highly recommend it!
Linda Bynum
16 Nov 2010, 09:15
I have fibromyalgia and my doctor put me on Sevella in October of this year.It was like the clouds parted and the sun finally came down,I could not believe after suffering for so long that I was getting relief in just a few short days.The only time I have to take extra pain meds is when it starts raining or a cold front moves thru.I just hope that this continues to work for me.
star
31 Oct 2010, 17:15
I am 53years old women. And I have pain and swollen hands specially in the morning when wake up. cervical pain & lower lumbar and I have pressures Headaches since I have a cervical herniated dics and lower lumbar. Please give me answer for this kind of problems.
Susan
17 Sep 2010, 10:48
I was diagnosed with fibro., osteoarthritis & anxiety/depression in 1997. After several years of doctors prescribing various combinations of meds. I am doing tolerably well on Paxil, Trazodone, Flexeril, Bupropion, and Wellbutrin.
However, I have been helped the most by aquacise for an hour, three times a week in a WARM pool, up to my neck. I go downhill very fast without this. These are few and far between, unfortunately, but you may be able to contact your local Arthritis Foundation office for them. I'm not sure whether they will tell you about the ones they don't sanction. Rheumatologists should be prescribing this FIRST for patients!
Sandra
11 Aug 2010, 22:29
Hi Kerry, I can't find your previous comment. Maybe it expired?? Can you post it again? Thanks.
Korneshia
02 Aug 2010, 17:13
I am not sure what wrong with me but I am trying to find someone to help me. I am having pain in my muscle and I have arthritis. It seems to me that I fit the description that you all are describing. However I Am looking toward a solution to help me heal:(
Kerry Forrest
01 Aug 2010, 20:27
See my previous comment!!!
Sandra
31 Jul 2010, 16:36
Wow! Some of these comments are the brightest I've heard, and I'm assuming you are not all doctors. My doctor wouldn't fill out disabiltiy papers for me, and she said I'll "just have to take the pills and deal with the pain" (and keep working at the same level I've been). This, after 21 years of trying many therapies which indeed have been helpful,and helped me keep working, but I'm wearing out at age 48. Thank you for providing a forum in which real fibro sufferers can connect! I'll be back to see more suggestions from the people who know. And maybe I'll have a few of my own to offer. Thank you Thank you!
Kayla
07 Jul 2010, 21:42
I get my trigger points worked on by a massage therapist. Not all understand what you need, but once you find out what works, keep that person. I couldn't leave my home I was in so much pain, but now I keep active, still in pain, but I am now functional. I purchased shisitsu (sp) massage cushion, which helps out pain in shoulders and lower back. Bought a large S hook type tool to work on my own trigger points and I use a rubber ball in a sock to work on my extremely unbearably sore spots. Dr. ruined my stomach by keeping me on pain pills that didn't work. I don't want to go on other pain meds, because I don't want liver and other damage on top of what I have. I am not giving into the fibro without one heck of a fight. I get in the pool now as I find it difficult to walk the few miles I used to walk daily. You could barely touch me and I was ready to go through the roof in pain, but now I can have someone push hard into my trigger points and I can take it. It's the only way I can get any kind of relief. I had fibro before doctors knew what it was and don't ever let anyone ever tell you that "it's all in your head". We know better than that.
Cliff
28 Apr 2010, 08:57
KEEP this Web Site going OPEN for those with
Arthritis-Fibromyalgia! To access.I entered this Web site for POSSIABLE Answers-Relief from Pain,Fatigue.Osteoarthritis&Rheumatoid
Arthritis&Fibromyalgia ALL 3 the Medical community Experts say I Have. I know I have
CONSTANT Pain&Fatigue 24/7. I have found NO answers but it does HELP a Little to hear see
others input who have same condition as well
Ideas suggestions etc. Example terri b 06 May
2009 19:56 hrs Text. I to have seen mulitiple
Doctors Specialist Experts and have TRYED JUST ABOUT ALL and have been advised Medical
community has nothing else to offer at present time other than Lyrica-Tramadol-
Tolmetin Daily- DOSENT HELP much if any at all. So far ALL other med,s NO Help Pain&
Fatigue as well, Many if not MOST ALL Side effects use of SOMETIMES as BAD OR WORSE than
Arthritis-Fibromyalgia PAIN&Fatigue.Until a
person has Arthritis-Fibromyalgia they have
NOT a CLUE as to the living HELL a person
goes thru 24/7. CONSTANT PAIN and because of
Pain constant Fatigue because your BODY is
fighting Pain 24/7. Your muscles become worn
out tired. I have NEVER been overweight and
I intend not to be because I could only guess
the increase PAIN caused by being so. Exercise I continue, It HELPS NONE Pain& Fatigue it increases PAIN Levels ONLY Myself.
BUT I continue for ONE Reason ONLY. I am NOT
a quitter and refuse to give in and shut down
no matter the PAIN YET! KEEP Moving Physicaly
not so much exercise program type talk. Just
HOBBLE the Best you can when you can!If and
until something a CURE FOR comes along.DONT
BUY INTO ALL the Medical BLOW thats out there
because they DONT KNOW ALL, They have been
playing with chemistry sets for Decades and are WAY OVER RATED with NO ANSWERS CURES FOR
BUT we can ONLY HOPE and HANG IN THERE!
Terrie
21 Apr 2010, 09:03
This site is wonderful! I'm sure everyone with this "disease" has gone through trying to "cope" with the pain AND being told it's all in your head. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 1994. I am now 63 and taking Lyrica and have gained weight like crazy. Not being able to exercise like I used to doesn't help either. The doctor gave me Vitamin D 2 months ago - which I was to take once a week for 8 weeks - 50000 units each. Haven't seen any changes from that either. Anyway - thanks for having this site - I'm going to try some of the other suggestions that your writers have suggested - let you know how it works!
Deb
19 Apr 2010, 16:26
Exercise is really helpful but it may take some time for each individual to find the one(s) that work for them.

I went from walking 2 miles a night to barely being able to walk because of knee and foot pain, so I switched to an upright exercise bike which is a good way to do seated aerobic exercise. If you can't sit on a bike there are foot/arm bikes that help.
I use therabands for resistance training instead of weights, but I used to be able to use food cans to lift weights.

When doing stretching it's really important not to follow the "no pain no gain" mantra, as our muscles don't repair themselves correctly. I have found that holding a stretch only 2-3 seconds instead of the 10-30 seconds recommended by most physical therapists is much better for me. There is a new system of exercise therapy which is based entirely on this concept - my massage therapist took classes in it.

Massage therapy is essential to my well-being - I have a session every week and don't know what I would do without it.

Whatever exercise you choose to do, it's vital to start low and slowly grow - start with only 3 repetitions, or 1 minute on a bike. Keep doing that every day until you're ready to do a little more. My rheumatologist recommended I increase my bike 1 minute per week, and I got up to 3 15-minute sessions per day. When I was off the foot bike for a while after surgery, I decided I would go bac to my 15 minute session - tried it once and I'm now in PT for ITB strain and hip bursitis!

Start low and grow slow!
SOFIA J
16 Apr 2010, 09:35
DEAR CARLA AND AMANDA.
I ENTERED THIS WEB, TO LOOK FOR SOME NATURAL VITAMINS THAT WILL HELP ME REGAIN MUSCLES.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I WAS DIAGNOSED W/FIBRO.. 3 YEARS AGO AFTER VISITING SO MANY DIFFERENT DOCTORS IN THE US,). IT AFECTED MY SPINE VERY MUCH,STOPPED ME FROM RUNNING, WATER SKI, ETC.
THERE IS ONLY 2 VITAMINS TAKE, AND HAD COMPLETELY CONTROLLED MY PAIN,ETC.THIS WAS PRESCRIBE BY MY DOCTOR(IN SOUTH AMERICA), ON TOP OF MILD ANTIDEPRESANTS, TO RELAX THE MUSCLES AN TREAT THE PAIN, BUT I DID NOT CONTINUE W/ THIS PILLS, SINCE I STARTED TO PUT WEIGHT ,ETC.
THE MAGIC CURE TO THIS, IS CAMU-CAMU, AND SEAWEED.TAKE NO MORE. JUST MAKE SURE IT IS FROM A GOOD BRAND, SO THAT IT WILL WORK FOR YOU.GOOD LUCK!!!!!!, AND I HOPE EVERYBODY FOLLOWS MY ADVICE.PLEASE LET ME AND EVERYBODY ELSE KNOW, THAT IT WORKS.
SOF
Sherry Siegal
08 Apr 2010, 10:02
I have had fibromyalgia for over 20 years. I have been treated with Prestiq, Clonopin, Ambien and now I take Amirix at night and that helps me sleep. Stress, weather and anxiety all exacerbate the condition. I took, Lyrica for a while but it made me gain a lot of weight. I still am about 40#'s overweight and am having a lot of trouble losing it. I try to exercise, but after a fuill day of work, I find it very hard. I am determined to try yoga and see if that helps. I have not tried a lot of the meds. mentioned. Believe it or not, when I have a flare up I take 3 Advil's and that seems to help.
Lisa Lewark
15 Jan 2010, 14:59
Busrah,

In answer to your comfy shoe question -- I recommend Noat, Mephisto, Dansko, Birkenstock, and Beartraps (in that order of comfort.

I do not know of any videos but maybe getting something in beginning yoga would be good.

Also, a great heating pad - whether electric or a gel based pad that can be frozen or heated by a microwave - would be nice.

I also have a fantastic mattress topper from Costco on my bed that has a memory foam insert and a fiber bed insert made together and zips on the bed. It makes for a better nights sleep with less pain.

You can also buy microbead pillows that you can sleep on as well as prop hurting body parts on it in the bed or while sitting in the car or on the couch.

Hope this helps.
bushra majid
13 Dec 2009, 18:09
Hi to you all,

My Mom has just been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia - she lives in African and not alot is know about the illness. Can you please enlighten me as to how I can help- are there any really comfie shoes or sandals I can send to her from N america? Do you recommend any tai chi exercise dvds? Is there a specail diet? Please help me as I am worried sick and so far away....
carla
13 Dec 2009, 01:35
I was diagnosed back in 2006 after running around to different neurologists for quite awhile. I'm constantly tired and finally realized that I do need some help with my depression again. I have been on so many meds that I don't know the names of half of them. I gained almost 30lbs in the first year of my illness. I never weighed over 125lbs so this is a huge adjustment for me. I did lose weight this past summer but gained it all back. I feel a little in the summer so I exercise more but, in the winter, I lose my passion, drive, and willingness to keep it up. I live in a very cold climate in the winter and I don't think that makes my situation any better. If anyone can recommend some form of pain therapy and new medical techniques for fibro, let me know.
Jodi
19 Nov 2009, 12:04
Dear Amanda

I am so sorry that you have this disease at such a young age. I'm 47 and hate the way it makes me feel and all the things I'm missing out on because I can't move after working all day. I wish there were some easy answer, all the recommendations from those who post here are excellent and since this is such an individual problem, nothing works the same for everyone. You just have to try things singly and then in combination to find out what works best for you. As for your boyfriend, I know you have invested three years in this young man and especially at your age, that's a long time. However, additional stress, depression, anxiety and anger all make fibromyalgia worse and it sounds as though he could be contributing to a lot of those kinds of feelings, if you have them. As we "old timers" like to say, there's a lot of fish in the sea and you need someone who is sensitive to your condition and helps you get through it, not tears you down and doesn't help you, emotionally and physically. He is young yet and I'm sure will become a great guy someday but you need someone mature enough to be supportive now. You have to remove any toxic relationships you can for your own sake. If you sat down with him and explained how much this hurts you and is damaging your feelings for him, do you think it would help him think about it differently? If so, I would. If not, I'd move on. It will hurt emotionally but your pain level physically is high and you don't need anything adding to it. Please know I will be thinking about you and your situation and praying for you both. Hang in there and keep your spirits as high as you can.
Amanda
07 Nov 2009, 13:41
I was diagnosed with fibro. in february of this year, no one really knows how long i've had it. The pain has always seemed to be a part of my life. I'm 19 years old, but I feel somewhere close to 90.

No one seems to understand the daily struggles, or wants to. My boyfriend of 3 years looks at me like he doesn't know me anymore and he refuses to talk about it. He says to suck it up, and it's not going to kill me so just deal with it. does anyone have any advice about how to deal with this? I feel so lost and alone.

Blessings
Anna - Fibromyalgia Treatment
26 Oct 2009, 06:20
Effective and affordable safe natural treatments are available for Fibromyalgia as alternatives to painkillers. You must review the products offered by Biogetica (T24, HMLC, C57), they are the evolutionary result of years of Homeopathic, Chinese, Ayurvedic, Synergetic and Biotech research. They are an excellent assimilation of products that helps to relieve most of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. The patient not only experiences a sense of comfort due to the reduction of pain, but also progresses towards overall good health. The solutions address the root cause and aid in maintaining normalcy of the connective tissues all over the body and strengthen the muscles, ligaments and cartilages of the body.
janette
22 Aug 2009, 10:21
I was diagnosed with fibro at age 18, I am now 43 and have had to listen to doctors tell me I'm just drug seeking for years. I even had a doctor and thus clinic and hospital refuse to treat me because they insisted it was all in my head (this was when I was a teenager but it remains in my medical file). I've been on everything, and nothing. Yesterday, my neurologist who I've been seeing for Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH)said the headaches are not due to the increased fluid due to the IIH but to fibromyalgia and has perscribed: tizanidine (a muscle relaxer-finally), zonisamide (an anti-convulsant also used for pain), and gabapentin (neurontin for nerve pain), as well as physical therapy. He said if this doesn't work he will try botox injections and then a pain clinic. Last night after my first dose of these meds I was able to sleep the whole night for the first time in a long time. I am so hoping this works as nothing else has.

Narcotics keep me awake, make me itch, and only helped for about an hour, besides none of my doctors wanted to perscribe anything other than antidepressants that gave me diahrrea.

Throughout the years I have learned this: exercise hurts bad at first, but when you get through that initial hurt, you'll feel better than ever, just take it slow...

AND unfortunately, nothing works forever. It seems like it goes in cycles, this is the worst year I've had in a long time, though I felt great last year, (except for the IIH). I am really hoping they can get a handle on fibro., they sure are a lot further than when they were sure it was all in our heads. Nothing is worse than being told you're a liar.

If you have fibromyalgia, you are also more likely to have PCOS, poly cystic ovarian syndrome, IIH, type II diabetes, and a host of other problems.

Best wishes to everyone!!
Marguerite
14 Jul 2009, 11:20
Wow. Great BB.

It was determined by a rheumatologist and back specialist that I suffered from Fibromyalgia about 12 years ago. I was in great shape at the time.

I can understand and agree that I have acutely and chronically somatisized my stress since I was a small child. I think that it was something that I was born with. I get angry when people tell me that I can control the pain and fatigue. I "controlled" it for a long time but by my early 40s, and yes I had one huge stress after another for over a decade,I was a physical and then emotional mess and the Fibro took over.

My life is very different now. Some would think that they should feel sorry for me or that I'm "nuts" but luckily I've never bought into a conventional lifestyle.

Anyway. I'm trying to ameliorate my Fibro again. I don't want to say "fight it".That sounds too painfaul and exhausting.

I'm lucky. After 14 years of unbelievable stress, unhappiness, happiness, joy, pain and unacceptance of my situation, I'm in the glad position to be with my 87 year old Mother who has more energy and far less pain than I but she is 87. No work. No kids. No Older ex-hippy husband who never understood my pain and believes that a brain tumor could be fixed by excercise. Idiot savant that he is.

I'm taking the time to get acupuncture and gentle, gentle massage (I used to love massage but it became a nightmare of post massage pain).

I've been trying to walk but it is difficult to maintain a regular schedule - - so far. I struggle to go 1/2 mile. Unbelievable.

I was severly Vitamin D deficient as was my sister and she swears that if I can get my D levels into the 50s and rest my tendons (it takes months she said) that I will find relieve from my latest Fibro related problem which started last summer. I never had systemic, chronic tendonitis before then. The original Fibro was a different kind of pain and discomfort.

I'm going to try IV Infusion of the necessary vitamins and minerals if this exists. I'm going to try the Fibro and Pain Mgmt Center.

I'll keep you posted on my progress.
FibromyalgiaDiet.net
01 Jul 2009, 19:40
"Fibromyalgia Fixes: Treatments Worth Trying" is a really great article that really covers the bases thoroughly on all of the options available for treating FMS. We need more info like this out there.

FibromyalgiaDiet.net
http://www.FibromyalgiaDiet.net
kelly
26 May 2009, 22:03
To Terry B. Lucky you to be able to get the disability and to have a husband I am single mother with over 5 years being denied disability It really sucks when you are an honest person to be treated like a drug grubbing person when you go to the doctors Waiting long periods to see specialists who over medicate you under medicate and all say they can do no more for you Just a suggestion: maybe you should get off those patches and try some vidoden or percocet I had those 3 and 4 years ago I couldn't hardly move or think or even talk with those patches I was even known to disappear from my family for long periods Once 10 hours I think they are bad news and make things worse I was still in pain Got to hang in there and always stay positive Stay in a positive environment
terri b
06 May 2009, 19:56
i do not know even where to start. Every thing I have read from every one here is so true. I have tried so many meds that I am sick of it. I have had depression on and off since 1992 but not like i do now. My pain started in 1999 and progressivly gotten worse.Now my meds consists of neurontin,800mg 3x day, ultram 100mg 3x day
and a patch called fentanyl which is a narcotic that my doc gave in and finally gave in and gave me is what keeps me going.I take 50mcg and leave it on for 3 days it keep me functioning however my depression and sleep probs are the worst now that i have my pain under some control. I have been admitted to psyc hospital, on several anti depressants take ambien and still have no energy to function. I am on disability and it interferes with my marriage and children.
I have a wonderful supportive husband but it takes a toll on him. I know excercise is a key but i just can't do it. I have been suffering for so long I have basicly given up. I read and read constantly looking for new info and hope to find something out there that can fix us.
Mary Ann Watson
16 Apr 2009, 10:35
I've had fibro for many yrs. (15ish- fibrofog makes me forget how many!) I do yoga/ VERY gently and slowly. I find it conditions my muscles without causing me more pain. I also like to walk outside and think it's very important to get your 15 mins. of sunlight each day too. I am glad to know about the medication to take prior to excercising, as it is VERY hard to do much exercise, therefore I think most people with fibro just don't. I'd like to see a major campaign about fibro awareness and things like this to help people who suffer!
Sandee
08 Apr 2009, 02:22
My diagnosis for fibromyalgia came 10 years ago. I may have had it longer, but nobody seemed to know what I had. In these years I have learned that exercise does payoff. Starting off slowly and patiently is perhaps the best methodology. Keeping a goal is of utmost importance. Also, I have found that walking outside is very beneficial. I have found through the years one tends to stay indoors.

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