Everyday ways to ease fibromyalgia pain
There's no single fix for fibromyalgia pain, but a mix of daily steps helps many people ease it and live better.
Key takeaways
- Combining several steps gives the best results.
- Regular gentle movement is one of the most helpful, built up slowly.
- Warmth, good sleep and pacing ease pain.
- CBT and medicines are options to discuss with your doctor.
A mix of steps
The best results usually come from combining several steps rather than relying on one. What suits one person may not suit another, so try things and log how they go.
Gentle movement
Regular activity is one of the most helpful things in fibromyalgia. Walking, swimming, exercise in warm water and stretching are gentle options. Start with a few minutes and build up slowly so you don't trigger a pain flare.
Warmth
A warm bath or warm compresses may ease muscle stiffness and pain.
Sleep
Unrefreshing sleep makes pain worse. Regular bedtimes, a quiet room and less caffeine in the evening may help.
Pacing
On good days you may want to do everything, then pay for it later. Spread tasks across days and rest before pain builds up.
Cognitive behavioural therapy
CBT helps many people cope with pain and its effect on daily life. Ask your doctor about it.
Medicines
Your doctor may prescribe medicines that help with pain and sleep. Discuss the benefits and side effects, and don't raise the dose yourself.
References
Content is for medical awareness and does not replace medical advice. In an emergency, contact emergency services immediately.
