Fibromyalgia
Alternate Names : Fibrositis
What are the treatments for the condition?
There is no cure for fibromyalgia. However, there are some treatments that can
improve the symptoms and quality of life for someone with the condition. People
with fibromyalgia have reported improvement from the following:
acupuncture
aerobic exercises, such as bicycling or jogging
antidepressant medications, such as amitriptyline and cyclobenzaprine, to
improve sleep and relax muscles
biofeedback
chiropractic treatments
heat or cold treatments
hypnosis
injections of local anesthesia medications or corticosteroids into tender
points
massage therapy
occupational therapy, which can teach individuals how to continue functioning in spite of pain
stretching and range of motion exercises, which involve moving joints
through their normal movements
Some individuals may find one or more of these treatments helpful, while others may
find that a particular treatment worsens symptoms. If a treatment
is helping and the side effects are tolerable, the treatment should be
continued.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Side effects of antidepressants include dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, and
constipation. Injecting
local anesthetic medications
can make the chronic pain worse in some cases and can cause an allergic reaction.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
The course of fibromyalgia is unpredictable and highly individualized.
Treatment is lifelong.
How is the condition monitored?
Self-monitoring of symptoms is important. People can document the severity of
pain, fatigue, stiffness, and mood in a daily log. This information can help in
treatment plans. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the
healthcare provider.
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