Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and tenderness, fatigue, and sleep problems. It can be challenging to diagnose because these symptoms are also shared with other conditions like arthritis and lupus. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatments may help reduce the pain and improve your quality of life. In Houston, TX, you’ll find facilities offering medical solutions to manage this condition. Aim for the best specialists in fibromyalgia in Houston for the proper assistance. We will explore some of the most popular treatment options currently available.
1. An Exercise Plan
Regular exercise can help to reduce pain and stiffness and increase muscle strength and flexibility. Workouts should be appropriate to your abilities. Aerobic exercises, such as swimming or walking, are preferable to high-impact activities like jogging because they put less strain on the joints.Â
Yoga also has many benefits for people with fibromyalgia, including improved mood and quality of sleep. Since some people with fibromyalgia are sensitive to even small amounts of pain, light exercises like stretches may be preferable to more strenuous activities.
2. Pain Relief Medications
Pain relief medications are one of the most common treatments for fibromyalgia. There are a variety of medications available, both over-the-counter and prescription, that can help reduce pain.Â
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly prescribed pain relievers for fibromyalgia.Â
3. Physical or Occupational Therapy
Physical or occupational therapy is recommendable to help improve flexibility, strength, and function. Physical therapy often includes a combination of exercises and stretches, while occupational therapy may focus on helping you find ways to manage your daily activities better.
4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps to change the way you think about and cope with your pain. CBT can help manage fibromyalgia because it teaches you coping skills like relaxation and better sleep habits while also helping to lessen the anxiety that can worsen the pain. A course of CBT typically lasts 6-10 weeks, although it could be longer for some people.
Counseling is another treatment option for fibromyalgia. A counselor can help you work through your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors related to your condition. They can also offer support and encouragement when you are experiencing difficulty.
Counseling sessions may last for a few weeks up to a year, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Counseling may help you uncover hidden sources of pain in your life, improve coping skills, and reduce the number of depression symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.
5. Antidepressants
Antidepressants are medications that treat depression and other mood disorders. They can also help reduce pain in people with fibromyalgia. There are a variety of antidepressants available, including tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Antidepressants are most effective when taken regularly.
Counseling, exercise, and medication are just some of the ways that you can effectively manage your fibromyalgia. A combination of therapies can treat fibromyalgia to reduce pain, improve mood, boost energy levels, and alter unhealthy behaviors. If you think you may be dealing with fibromyalgia, talk to your doctor about what treatment options are suitable for you.
