Fibromyalgia is a complicated condition that is characterized by muscle pain and fatigue when pressure is applied to specific tender points over the body such as the neck, back, shoulders, arms, hips, and legs.

The cause of fibromyalgia still eludes healthcare professionals and people of all genders, ages, and races tend to develop the disorder. However, the condition does seem to develop more favorably in middle-aged women. Additionally, individuals with a history of other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, have a higher chance of being diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for fibromyalgia but it is possible to manage the symptoms of this disorder with alternative therapies and certain natural remedies.

Alternative Therapies and Home Remedies

There are numerous medications that can be prescribed for patients with fibromyalgia which can help reduce the symptoms experienced by these affected individuals. However, there are alternative therapies and home remedies that can be effective enough in managing the pain caused by the disorder.

The following are important alternatives to medication as well as natural measures one can incorporate to reduce the symptoms and signs caused by fibromyalgia:

Finding a supportive primary care doctor

• An important aspect of self-care is finding a practitioner who understands and cares for patients diagnosed with this condition.
• A lack of understanding and support from a healthcare professional, coupled together with issues such as chronic pain and sleep disturbances, can cause affected individuals to develop anxiety and become depressed.

Getting enough sleep

• Getting an adequate amount of sleep helps to manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia by combating fatigue.
• This can be done by reducing the number of daytime naps taken, limiting noise and light at bedtime, and going to bed and waking up at around the same time every day.

Exercising

• Exercising helps affected individuals improve their muscle strength which helps to reduce discomfort and pain caused by the condition.
• This may be difficult at first but consistency is key with physical exertion.
• Swimming, water aerobics, and walking are usually good to start with.
• A physical therapist can also help to set up an appropriate exercise program.

Resting

• With that being said about exercising, resting is also important for patients with fibromyalgia.
• Pushing too hard can exacerbate the pain and fatigue experienced by these individuals.
• Therefore, exercise should be incorporated in moderation as those who do feel well may end up triggering more days of feeling unwell.

Decreasing stress

• Decreasing stress levels can be done by performing relaxation exercises and activities such as meditation, yoga, and Taichi.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Reducing the intake of caffeine, alcohol, tobacco products, and illegal drugs help to reduce the physical stress applied to the body which reduces the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Acupuncture

• This is a traditional Chinese therapy where small needles are inserted into specific parts of the body.
• Some people believe that this therapy helps change chemical levels and the blood flow in the body which helps to relieve pain and discomfort.

Massage therapy

Massage therapy has been clinically proven to help improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension which aids in reducing the issues caused by the condition.

Affected individuals are urged to speak to their primary care doctor or specialist about incorporating such therapies in order to assist with the reduction of pain and discomfort caused by fibromyalgia.