At-Home Treatments for Fibromyalgia

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that involves widespread muscle pain (myalgias) and joint pain (arthralgias). In addition to pain, fibromyalgia is frequently accompanied by additional symptoms, including fatigue, cognitive impairment/brain fog, headaches, depression, anxiety and insomnia.

At-home treatments

In addition to conventional medical treatments for fibromyalgia, various at-home treatments can also help manage fibromyalgia symptoms.

• Over-the-counter medications
  Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium, may help reduce muscle aches.
• Yoga
  Practicing yoga can improve muscle strength and promote relaxation. Studies show that people with fibromyalgia that participate in yoga experience an improvement in mood, pain and fatigue. Yoga involves a combination of gentle poses, meditation, and breathing exercises.
• Physical activity
  Walking, biking and swimming increase the brain’s production of endorphins, improve sleep quality, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Mindfulness
  Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment. It promotes relaxation and encourages self-care. Mindfulness can inhibit the central nervous system’s perception of pain and reduce distressing thoughts and feelings associated with pain.
• Diet and nutrition
  Limiting consumption of unhealthy foods can improve body function and reduce pain levels. Eating a diet balanced of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, healthy oils, legumes, and low-fat protein is beneficial for many individuals with fibromyalgia. Carbohydrates and fatty, sugary and processed foods may contribute to brain fog. Some people with fibromyalgia notice dramatic improvement with a low-carb or keto diet.