Posted by TENA/DIAMOND on 2/1/2009, 2:47 pm, in reply to "Re: What Is Fibromyalgia?#2"
What Is Fibromyalgia?#3
(continued)
Are there alternative treatments for fibromyalgia?
Alternative therapies, although they are not well-tested, can help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia. For instance, therapeutic massage manipulates the muscles and soft tissues of the body and helps ease deep muscle pain. It also helps relieve pain of tender points, muscles spasms, and tense muscles. Similarly, myofascial release therapy, which works on a broader range of muscles, can gently stretch, soften, lengthen, and realign the connective tissue to ease discomfort.
The American Pain Society (APS) guidelines recommend moderately intense aerobic exercise at least two or three times a week. The APS panel also endorses clinician-assisted treatments, such as hypnosis, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and chiropractic manipulation for pain relief.
Along with alternative therapies, it's important to allow time each day to rest and relax. Relaxation therapies -- such as deep muscle relaxation or deep breathing exercises -- may help reduce the added stress that can trigger fibromyalgia symptoms. Having a regularly scheduled bedtime is also important. Sleep is essential to let the body repair itself.
SOURCES:
American College of Rheumatology: "What Is Fibromyalgia?"
Arthritis Foundation: "Fibromyalgia: What Is It?"
American Fibromyalgia Syndrome Association: "What Is Fibromyalgia?"
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: "Fast Facts About Fibromyalgia."
McIlwain, H. and Bruce, D. The Fibromyalgia Handbook, Holt, 2007.
WebMD Health News: "FDA OKs Fibromyalgia Drug Savella."
Reviewed by Matthew Hoffman, MD on April 30, 2008
© 2008 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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