Lifestyle Modifications for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia comes with a range of painful and debilitating symptoms, from chronic body aches to persistent fatigue. To live with fibromyalgia, you need to make adjustments to your habits and expectations. If you can find the right balance for your condition, you can manage to still live a full and vibrant life after your fibromyalgia diagnosis.

At Healthy Life Family Medicine, John Monroe, MD, provides ongoing care and support to patients with fibromyalgia around the Goodyear, Arizona area. These are some of the tips she recommends for living with fibromyalgia. Each person’s body is different, so you may need to experiment with different methods to find the combination of strategies that will allow you to maintain your energy and avoid pain flare-ups.

Taking care of your body

Dealing with fibromyalgia, you may find that your body becomes a source of stress, because of your symptoms of pain or fatigue. Even though you may find your chronic pain condition frustrating, don’t let yourself take it out on your own body. Instead, focus on ways to support your physical wellbeing and health.

• Eat a balanced diet, avoiding highly processed foods that have potentially been linked to inflammatory responses
• Exercise as regularly as you are able, gently using aerobic, strengthening, and flexibility training to relieve your symptoms and increase your overall energy levels
• Get enough sleep each night, so that your body can fully rest and recharge

Some patients also benefit from regular massage to lessen symptoms of swelling and stiffness associated with chronic pain. 

Taking care of your life and personal goals

Living with fibromyalgia causes a lot of stress, and it’s important for your well-being to manage those emotions. Stress can actually make your fibromyalgia symptoms. See if relaxation techniques like meditation, mindfulness, or yoga could be helpful for you — or just give yourself the afternoon off every now and then to take a warm bath or pamper yourself.

As you cope with fibromyalgia, also take time to reconsider parts of your life like your employment, living arrangements, and essential errand assistance. Once you have support systems set up and working smoothly, you can focus on reframing your personal goals and ambitions and moving forward. 

Reaching out for the support you need

You may need to change or adjust your personal goals and self-expectations after your fibromyalgia diagnosis. This can be an emotionally challenging process, and it’s natural to struggle. With help, you can find your way to a new normal. Support groups for people living with chronic pain can help you feel less alone as you adjust. Dr. Monroe may also be able to recommend physical therapy, medications, or mental support to help you continue to thrive even after your fibromyalgia diagnosis. 

To talk with Dr. Monroe about your fibromyalgia condition, and get started putting together a personalized treatment plan, contact her office at Healthy Life Family Medicine right away. You can make your initial consultation appointment over the phone, or schedule online.