Lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia
After a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, a combination of medication, physical activity, and psychotherapy is the treatment plan that helps the patient to manage the disease. This holistic approach works best to help them manage whenever they experience mild symptoms or flare-ups. Its unpredictability has made it important that patients communicate with friends, family, colleagues, and caregivers about their condition so that they too can be prepared to be ready to take care or be of assistance when the symptoms appear. Apart from being prepared to manage it with external help, patients can do many tiny and big changes in their day to day lifestyle that will help them improve their quality of life. Some suggestions that one can keep in mind are:
Posture
Maintaining a correct posture will prevent adding strain to your body:
- Standing
Avoid standing for a long time. They should place one foot ahead of them and later. If they have to do chores like ironing or cooking, keep a stool in front and place one foot on it and keep alternating. Always remember to stay upright without slouching. - Sitting
Sit with one’s back straight and both feet touching the floor. Choose chairs with armrests so that getting up will be easier. Always carry a cushion to ensure comfort. - Lying
Lying down in the fetal position is the best way. With your one knee bent lie down on your back. The neck and the spine have to be aligned. Sleeping on the stomach should be avoided. A medium firm mattress that supports the curve of the spine is ideal. - Lifting
Avoid bending over to lift or pick something from the ground. Keep the object near your feet and lift it. Keep heavy objects in the kitchen waist high so that the spine is not strained to bend or to lift heavy pots and pans. Use trolleys if you need to carry heavy stuff.
Diet
Including food items that are beneficial for muscles and bones and also can remove conditions like constipation and diarrhea, dry mouth, headache and migraine and also menstrual pain in women.
- At least 91 ounces of liquid for women and 125 ounces for men and most of it as water should be consumed every day. Drink water in an empty stomach.
- Cereals, starch and their derivatives should be the main part of the diet. A good portion of fresh fruits and vegetables and a moderate amount of protein is recommended. Dairy should be avoided for those who are lactose intolerant. A small portion of meat, fish, and eggs and a generous portion of pulses can be included.
- Occasional serving of processed food and sweets are recommended.
- A small dose of virgin olive oil can be consumed every day.
Sleep
They should eat a light dinner at least 2 hours before bed. Moderate exercise as recommended by doctors and psychotherapist should be completed. Following a routine and sleeping at a particular time daily improves sleep habits. Listen to music or have a hot shower or meditate to help your mind relax before sleeping.