6 key pieces in your fibromyalgia treatment plan

Given the many options for managing fibromyalgia, it can be tough to figure out where to begin. Choosing from the dozens of available medications, finding the most effective self-care remedies, and knowing what lifestyle changes work best for you may feel confusing. 

But it's important to try different approaches until you are better able to manage your fibromyalgia pain and fatigue. You may feel less overwhelmed if you start with baby steps. Craft a simple fibromyalgia treatment plan that includes a handful of strategies. Then, add other treatment and self-care options from there. Reassess your plan regularly.

Although there's little scientific proof that the foods you eat will make your fibromyalgia symptoms better or worse, some studies suggest that dietary changes may help some—if not all—people with fibromyalgia.

Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, and legumes. Try to limit red meat, processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars and salt. This can lead to improvements in your overall health, which may help your fibromyalgia.

Staying ahead of fibromyalgia fatigue requires more than the right medication regimen, diet, and sleep schedule. It means learning to recognize when you're pushing yourself too hard and backing off sometimes—something that's not always easy to do. It may help to look for patterns. Perhaps you’re more tired after doing certain activities or at certain times of the day. Try to give yourself grace at these times, so you have energy for other important things.

Sidestepping stress completely is like trying to stay dry when you go swimming: impossible. But when stress gets out of control or becomes a constant presence, it can make coping with fibromyalgia even harder. What’s more, it can rob you of much-needed sleep. 

So, take steps to mitigate stress in your everyday life. Try these tips.

• Find in-the-moment relaxation techniques, like deep breathing.
• As you’re able, incorporate exercise in your everyday life, whether it’s a long daily walk or a mind-body practice like yoga.
• Carve out time to do things you enjoy, whether it’s engaging in a hobby or playing a sport.
• Socialize regularly with people you love.

As tempting as it may be to rest when fibromyalgia pain and fatigue have you in their grip, it's important that you don't become sedentary. In fact, studies show that a regular exercise regimen can help improve fibromyalgia pain and fatigue, while a sedentary lifestyle may make them worse. 

If you’re new to exercise, it may be tricky figuring out how much and what type of exercise will work best for you. So, start slowly. Go for a short walk or try a new workout online. Experiment until you’ve found an activity you like. Once you’ve found it, you can work on increasing length and intensity. 

Remember to always speak to a healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine.

Finding the right HCP is an important first step in finding a medication treatment plan that will work for you. The second step? Developing a connection with your HCP. For that, look for an HCP who has experience working with people with fibromyalgia. Consider their manner, as well. The right HCP should take the time to listen to you and consider you an equal member of the team.

Bottling up your fibromyalgia pain and fatigue, along with the stress and emotions that can come with them, is likely to make your symptoms worse. Find people you can talk with about your condition. Family and friends can lend an ear, but it’s helpful to look beyond your immediate circle, as well. Find a local or online fibromyalgia support group, or schedule sessions with a behavioral therapist or counselor.