We have discussed fibromyalgia (FM) from many perspectives but what we haven’t done yet is listen to what actual FM patients have to say about what works and what doesn’t work. Rather than reading about what "the experts" say about FM and what to do for it, let’s take a different perspective – let’s talk to those who have FM and hear what they have to say about the "do’s and don’ts."
Consider the following great "pearls of wisdom" for those suffering from FM:
- Stick to a schedule—it helps.
- Know when you’re pushing too much, and listen to what your body is telling you.
- Keep a journal every day about what you do and how you feel.
- Focus on the 4 P’s: pacing, problem solving, prioritizing, and planning.
- Work on your communication skills, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.
- Exercise and diet are very important.
- Acknowledge your limits—recognize what you can and cannot do.
- Exercise if you can—swimming helps me because it’s easier on my joints.
- Don’t overdo it or your symptoms will really kick in.
- Know your limitations—if you’re tired, know when to rest.
- Join a support group—or even start one yourself.
- Stay informed—there's a lot of research and helpful information out there.
- Find a doctor who really sits down and listens to you and understands your pain.
- Use your friends and family as support.
- Learn about Fibromyalgia by reading up on the subject.
- Accept help when you need it.
- Wear a sweat suit when you exercise on the stationary bike; the heat may help to soothe your muscles.
- Sleep is very important. Try not to nap during the day so you can sleep better at night.
- Balance your meals with a low-fat, high-protein diet. Drink plenty of water.
- Stretching, swimming, walking, and a little yoga may help you deal with the pain.
- Keep moving and enjoy life.
- Exercise! Keep those muscles and bones flexed and firm. But do not overdo it!
- Write down the things that may have brought about your pain.
- Keep this list on your refrigerator as a reminder.
- This is just one way to help you manage the severity of your next "bad" day.
- List the people you can rely on ahead of time to help you on your "bad" days.
- Just knowing that you have backup may help reduce your stress.
- Your support network can help with completing important tasks.
- For example, on a "bad" day, ask them to run an errand or pick up your children from school.
- Sometimes, they could just be there to listen.
