Has anyone had successful treatment for fibromyalgia?

Answer 1

I have linked a site that shows you how to correct imbalances in your foot, which is the main cause of fibromyalgia pain. Most fibromyalga treatments revolve around doctors or medical professionals treating the symptoms of fibromylaiga--even the natural approaches mentioned below. While they can improve and lessen some of the pain, the main problem of fibromyalgia still persists, thus the most effective treatment would be one that corrects the cause of fibromyalgia. Visit this site for more information, I hope all of this help: http://www.FibroFreeLife.com

AnswerThere are all sorts of "natural" treatments you can try. Magnets, various health food remedies are some of the products offered. However, many of these do not help and may make it worse, so be extremely cautious. I have a related disease, that has fibromyalgia as a part of the condition. Part of the problem is the viscious cycle of fatigue and pain. For many illnesses, you would rest and hope to get better. However, with fibromyalgia, you want to keep up your muscle tone so that you don't get as fatigued with activity. Water aerobics, short walks, yoga or pilates are helpful. And then, you rest. If you get massages, avoid the deep tissue massage and inform your therapist of your condition. Also reduce the amount of preservatives in your food, avoid overly processed foods and high fat. The Arthritis Foundation magazine often has very good, helpful articles. AnswerCurrent pharmacologic treatments for fibromyalgia include a variety of medicines. The only medicine approved by the FDA for fibromyalgia is pregabalin (Lyrica). It is similar to gabapentin (Neurontin), which is an older medicine. Certain types of anti-depressants have shown benefit, mainly the tricyclics such as amitriptyline (Elavil), and norepinephrine/serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as duloxetine (Cymbalta).

It is important to find a physician that is knowledgeable because the doses of these medications for pain management is often different than doses for their indicated purposes. It is also important to make sure that you actually have fibromyalgia. Lots of different conditions can cause the symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as thyroid disorders, sleep disorders, depression, vitamin deficiencies, etc.

The only analgesic indicated for use by patients with fibromyalgia is tramadol (Ultram). Over the counter pain medications typically have no effect and chronic opioid use can increase your sensitivity to pain.

I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia a year ago and found significant benefit with Cymbalta and a stimulant for fatigue, but everyone is different, so you should make the decision with your doctor. I tried physical therapy and acupuncture. I thought they both helped a little, but not enough to justify the costs. Massages are nice to get from time to time.

AnswerI found a good source for you with a newsletter that will keep you up-to-date on more successful treatments, but also teach you how to handle Fibromyalgia:

There are local chapters in most areas now of the Fibromyalgia Network. This organization produces an excellent newsletter which is well worth getting. Here's how to contact them:

Fibromyalgia Network 5700 Stockdale Hwy, Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA 93309

Info line: 1-805-631-1950 from 10am-2pm Pacific Time Publication: FM Newsletter (quarterly); $15/yr USA, $17/yr Canada

There is now a test that will soon be out of clinical trials. www.autoimmune.com

Once this test is out since it is a blood test fibromyalgia will be more accepted and pain management will be easier to get.

Tylenol with codeine works for many patience and although there are debates of addiction most pain management doctors know the difference between addiction/dependency. The pain does not get worse with a low dose of analgesics. Ultram works for some patients also and is easier to get prescribed. Lyrica helps with certain aspects of the FM. Like the restless leg syndrome and things like that but not so much with the over all pain and stiffness. A mild muscle relaxant also will help with some symptoms but only a few are approved such as flexural although Soma seems to help more if you can handle the drowsiness and a doctor will prescribe it. Amitriptyline, clonopin and medicines like this can help with the depression, anxiety, and in some cases the sleep disorders. Most over the counter pain medicines do not work but 800mg of ibuprofen seems to help on some days. Although fibromyalgia does not cause swelling of the joints if there is any inflammation at all it will aggravate the fibromyalgia symptoms of pain, therefore when in severe pain Ibuprofen 800mg helps. There is not one medicine that is a catch all for fibromyalgia. Different medicines work for different people many times you and your doctor will have to mix and match until you find what works for you. Most of the treatments on line will help your pain in one way. they will lighten your wallet or pocketbook so not to put too much strain on you. Stick with a healthy diet, moderate exercise, and a pain management doctor that believes in and knows the disease.