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6 key pieces in your fibromyalgia treatment plan

Learn everyday strategies to help you cope with your fibromyalgia symptoms.

Updated on October 28, 2024

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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 fibromyalgiaShow More

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Eat A Healthy Diet

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, andShow More

mature woman relaxing on couch with cup of tea
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Take It Easy

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’reShow More

woman lying on floor meditating
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Reduce Stress

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 stressShow More

kayak, rowing, woman, outdoors, exercise
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Stay Active

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. 

IfShow More

woman, doctor, patient
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Work With The Right Healthcare Provider (HCP)

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 HCPShow More

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Talk About Your Fibromyalgia

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.Show More

Slideshow sources open slideshow sources

NYU Langone Health. Lifestyle Modifications for Fibromyalgia. Accessed October 25, 2024.
National Health Service (UK). Self-help: Fibromyalgia. Reviewed October 12, 2022.
Cleveland Clinic. Fibromyalgia. Reviewed December 1, 2022.
NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Fibromyalgia: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take. Reviewed May 2024.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Nutrition for Fibromyalgia. May 2023.
University of Florida College of Medicine Center for Musculoskeletal Pain Research. Nutrition. Accessed October 25, 2024.

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