If you're living with fibromyalgia, you might think that relief only comes from the bottle - your medicine bottle, that is. But studies have found that a combination of medical and non-medical therapies work best to quiet fibromyalgia pain.
What's meant by non-medical therapy? Well, it includes how much or how little you exercise, how much you sleep, nutrition, even your attitude toward pain. Perhaps a better term might be "lifestyle therapy."
Studies also have found that "complementary" medicine may help. Also known as complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM, these take a more holistic approach to managing fibromyalgia pain. CAM's overall effectiveness varies, and people who use CAM should do so only in consultation with their physician.
And remember, it's a good idea to talk with your doctor before beginning or changing an exercise routine, your diet or other lifestyle habits. Together, you and your doctor can work on a whole body approach to minimize fibromyalgia pain.
