Lifestyle Measures for Coping With Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects more than 6 million men and women in the United States. This complex pain condition can make it hard to perform even the simplest everyday activities, such as making dinner, walking short distances, and climbing stairs. In fact, it can be hard for many people with fibromyalgia to continue working.

Unfortunately, there’s no single treatment for fibromyalgia. But, at Florida Pain Management Institute, our team of health experts, led by Adam E. Shestack, MD, takes a holistic approach to managing fibromyalgia. In addition to medications and physical therapy, our team will work closely with you to outline specific lifestyle changes that may significantly ease your fibromyalgia symptoms.

Follow a healthy diet

While there isn’t specific research saying you should follow a certain diet, we do know that consuming some things can cause fibromyalgia symptoms to flare up, including:

• Caffeine
• Dairy
• Items with aspartame, such as diet soft drinks
• Highly processed and fried foods
• Foods with additives, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG)
• Nightshade vegetables, such as potatoes, tomatoes, and bell peppers

To keep your condition under control, focus on eating a healthy diet filled with lean proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 

Increase your activity

It can be hard to move your body when you’re living with chronic pain. But, exercise is actually one of the best treatments for fibromyalgia symptoms. Not only does physical activity strengthen your muscles, promote healthier sleep, and increase your energy, but it also releases endorphins. Endorphins are a hormone that can make you feel good.

When you start exercising, be sure to start slow, and don’t push yourself too hard. We usually recommend a combination of strengthening, stretching, and aerobic exercises.

Learn to manage stress

Stress can make your fibromyalgia symptoms worse. To keep your stress levels under control, take steps to establish time every day to do things you enjoy, such as reading or taking a bubble bath.

Get a massage 

Getting regular massages may sound self-indulgent, but this highly effective therapy can do wonders for relieving fibromyalgia symptoms. Not only is massage therapy a proven stress and pain reliever, it can also reduce stiffness and swelling, increase your flexibility, and improve your range of motion.

Get quality sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep can be hard, whether or not you have fibromyalgia. But, restorative sleep is crucial for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. You should aim to get at least eight hours of quality sleep each night. To make this a part of your fibromyalgia care, establish a sleep schedule and stick to it. You’ll have to go to bed and get up at the same time every day, even on weekends. 

If you struggle with sleep, deep breathing can help. We can also make additional recommendations or try medications to ensure you get the quality sleep you need.

If you have fibromyalgia, we can help. Book an appointment over the phone with Florida Pain Management Institute today.