A Practical Guide to Managing Fibromyalgia

The Self-Treating Patient, Book 5

By: Lovena Suson P.T.

Narrated by: James McLeod

Fibromyalgia: a state of centralized pain.

Fibromyalgia is the second major “rheumatic” disorder. Its prevalence is about two to eight percent in the population. It has a woman to man ratio of 2:1. It resembles some chronic pain diseases. Fibromyalgia patients have a history of irritable bowel syndrome, dysmenorrhea, headaches, fatigue, and some gastrointestinal disorders including interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, etc.

For patients of fibromyalgia, it is difficult to exercise regularly. But such a condition can be managed by gradual and persistent exercise. By building strong muscles, pain and discomfort can be reduced. Aerobic exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling are very beneficial for patients of fibromyalgia to improve the health and overall well-being of the body. It may also result in reduced pain, stiffness, and fatigue.

Neurological studies have found that a program of 15-week exercises can lead to better brain functioning in people who are affected by fibromyalgia. Although there are many exercises one can search for online, I will share a simplified routine that has worked great with my fibromyalgia patients.

Why do I like to use a physioball? I want to keep it simple and easy to get started with. Especially so with fibromyalgia patients. Physioball exercises include side-to-side rolls, knee-to-chest rolls, and bridging. It's a very simple exercise tip that makes a difference.

It doesn't have to be complicated. Though this may be a challenging condition to deal with, I have worked with patients who keep fit and live quality lives. A willingness to take charge and consistency with therapeutic options and alternatives recommended certainly goes a long way. No matter what the odds, good quality of life is always possible with the right attitude and adaptations to one’s disability.

©2019 Lovena Suson (P)2019 Lovena Suson