Effective Fibromyalgia Treatment

Fibromyalgia is a condition that affects women at a much higher rate than men. It typically first presents itself between the ages of 20 and 50. Symptoms typically include pain in several areas of the body, depression, and many also suffer at the same time from chronic fatigue syndrome. Treatments vary depending on the severity of symptoms.

Effective Medications

There are several medications that have proven to be effective for fibromyalgia sufferers, but these medications are typically prescribed as off-label usage. Antidepressants such as the new Cymbalta have been approved to treat some of the symptoms of the condition. In addition, sleep aids are often provided in order to allow the person to get plenty of rest. Pain medications, such as narcotics are sometimes given as well for those that suffer from severe pain.

Exercise and Stretching

In recent years doctors and researchers have found that a person with fibromyalgia greatly benefits from gentle exercises that includes stretching. Keeping the muscles stretched appears to help with the cycle of pain and stiffness that many sufferers complain of having. Water exercise is probably one of the best ways to help fight the pain cycle of fibromyalgia.

Massage Therapy

Fibromyalgia patients may find regular massage sessions helpful at keeping their muscles from tightening, which helps to lesson pain. With fibromyalgia, it is the muscles that are affected rather than the joints as is the case with arthritis, therefore, keeping the muscles smooth and less tense can be a very effective treatment option.

Many people also find massage therapists that know acupuncture since this is very beneficial when it is combined with massage. While drugs can help with some aspects of fibromyalgia, much of the new ways of treating the condition focuses on alternative methods to help the muscles.