Treatments of Fibromyalgia

The treatment of Fibromyalgia should be viewed as a “team approach”. Most chronic pain does not respond to drugs and may require an aggressive use of nonpharmacological therapies or “the rehab approach”. This includes a lifestyle change, physically, mentally, and emotionally. This approach should include use of a physician, occupational therapist, physical therapist, massage therapist, chiropractor, an acupuncturist and any specialists, such as a Rheumatologist. Mondell, D. L., & Wright, P. (2005).

Psychological counseling is recommended early after receiving the diagnosis of Fibromyalgia. Mainly because it takes many years of visiting doctors and having tests results come back negative that an individual will begin to think this is “all in their head”. Then when finally a diagnosis is given like Fibromyalgia and they are told that “the cause is unknown, the treatment is unknown and there is no cure” can be hard to accept. It is recommended that the patient’s loved ones attend sessions, because they, too, will find it hard to understand the diagnosis, its effect on the patient and the recommended treatments for this syndrome. Depression is commonly associated with a patient diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. The patient has to learn that they can no longer be the “SuperMom” and may have to relinquish some of her chores to an assistant. This can lead to low self esteem, feelings of inadequacy on their role in the family unit. Talking to a professional about these feelings, reevaluating their position in life and understanding that following a good balanced diet, getting restorative sleep, and participating in a reasonable exercise program and maintaining a good outlook on life this patient can still be a successful, productive, a...

... middle of paper ...

...algia & Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome, A Survival Manual. Oakland, CA:New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

Guide to Fibromyalgia, www.JohnsHopkinsHealthAlerts.com , 2009

Clauw, D.J., & Wallace, D.J.(2009). Fibromyalgia, The Essential Clinician’s Guide. New York : Oxford University Press

Format: Electronic Book ; Electronic Resource

Parker, J.N., Parker, P.M., (2002). The 2002 Official Patient’s Sourcebook on Fibromyalgia. San Diego: Icon Group International, Inc. Format: Electronic Book ; Electronic Resource

Wallace,D. J. & Wallace, J.B. ,(2002). All about fibromyalgia. New York: Oxford University Press Format: Electronic Book ; Electronic Resource

Mondell, D. L., & Wright, P. (2005). Living with fibromyalgia: 4 steps to manage pain and lead a fulfilling life. New York: McGraw-Hill Format: Electronic Book ; Electronic Resource