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Fibromyalgia -- Need help on how to handle severe pain
Fibromyalgia | Last Active: Oct 29, 2023 | Replies (156)Comment receiving replies
My mantra just about ANY health problem/disease is: Are you, old sport, living OVERALL a reasonably healthy lifestyle? The question helps me bcz I can start Immediately with something if my food, posture, stress/thoughts, and physical activity/flexibility are deficient.
My first pain problem was some 30 years ago: right foot and left knee. Thank goodness taking care of myself in areas that were within MY control I had been able to continue working in my profession that often required much hazardous/difficult walks. Thirty years later, I still am (fingers crossed) walk up to 12 floors in my apt bldg -- I often do it, last one was yesterday. But NOT to avoid pain as much as to see how far my body still can cheerfully take up on self-challenges. But I do have 'pains' as all lives do.
In fact a look at NIH and Mayo both recommend physical activity/therapy,
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354780
Exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures also may help.
Good luck
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Reading your words - "taking care of areas that were in MY control", really resonates and I'm glad you mentioned it. The power of mindset, shifting focus and replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts helps along with the valuable things you also point out like exercise, relaxation, and stress-management. When all else fails and begins losing effectiveness such as meds, injections and procedures, it's kind of like - Okay, now what?
Have you always been a motivated person? Taking yourself up on self-challenges is a valuable tool. Goals are important. As you bring up exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction, it reminds me that the physical component goes hand in hand with the emotional, behavioral and chemical components. As Dr. Sletten from Mayo's Pain Rehab Center says - "you have to be in on ALL 4 components". These approaches can start small and increase gently to build upon step by step, day by day.
Thirty years later, as you walk up 12 floors to your apt building, you can thank perseverance and lifestyle for making it happen. That's awesome! May you continue to climb the stairs, with moderation of course, and test boundaries, but know that reaching plateaus are okay, too. How have you learned what physical activities have been best for your pain? Do you work with a physical therapist or pain rehabilitation program?