The response from viewers about the fibromyalgia pieces has been remarkable- not because the piece was so great (I hope it was good)- but more because so many were happy to see anybody writing about it at all. This condition can make sufferers feel so alone and alienated- the letters I received were grateful for the coverage.
People with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) often feel overlooked, largely because a fair number of physicians (not me!) feel that it is a psychological rather than physical condition. As I stated in a previous post, this belief is fostered by the fact that many FMS sufferers get relief from antidepressant medications.
The psychological ramifications of any pain syndrome can be wide reaching, and the tips I outline below will be beneficial to anyone suffering with pain.
-Pain can cause people to give up hobbies and pursuits which might otherwise give them opportunities to relax. Latch on to the things you enjoy, and slowly introduce them back into your life, even if this introduction can be uncomfortable at times. I have a friend with FMS who began tango dancing several years ago, and she will tell you her symptoms would be way worse without this activity/diversion.
-Take a few minutes out of each day to focus on, and feel gratitude for the times of day where you don’t feel pain, or simply feel less pain. It can be easy to fall into the trap of feeling as though you always feel terrible. Think about the various times of day; are there times you feel better or worse? Try to take advantage of the times you feel less pain.
-Maintain a moderate level of physical activity. As I mentioned in part 2, physical exercise is often abandoned as FMS sufferers think they would be better off resting. Worst idea- find physical activities you can do- and DO THEM. A sedentary lifestyle is extremely deleterious to FMS symptoms- and you will experience the added benefits of exercise.
-As you know, my ‘thing’ is the couples/partners approach to pain management. If you are fortunate enough to have a partner or spouse, participate in ‘normal’ activities. Don’t allow your significant other to treat you like broken china- if you do, you will become broken china- if you get my meaning.
I just wanted to throw these few extra thoughts into the mix. Stay tuned for Part 3: Medications for Fibromyalgia.
If you missed parts 1 & 2, here they are:
Part 2: Lifestyle modifications which can help fibromyalgia.
Thanks for joining me, and thanks for your questions & comments.
-Andy
Enjoy this video of Argentinian students visiting South Beach, Florida. I had so much fun watching them have fun:
Tags: Andrew Kirschner, andy kirschner, Back Pain, back together, backtogether, Fibromyalgia, fibromyalgia syndrome, Neck Pain, pain, psychology