If you are living with fibromyalgia (FM), you aren't alone. This health care condition impacts some 10 million people in the United States and up to six percent of the global population. Getting through daily activities with FM can be a challenge, as symptoms include musculoskeletal pain, soreness, and fatigue. Find out how you can manage your discomfort below.

3 Ways to Manage Fibromyalgia Symptoms

1. Exercise Regularly

Aerobic exercise, including jogging, helps reduce the stiffness that comes with FM. Physical activity will also produce endorphins and make you feel more energized.

Start with low-impact activities that won't stress the joints, like swimming, cycling, and stretching. Yoga in particular has been shown to help combat the pain associated with FM. It further fights symptoms like stiffness, lack of balance, and poor sleep.

2. Take Medications

Talk to a health care provider about possible medications that could improve your quality of life. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin can reduce inflammation and decrease muscle aches.

In more extreme cases, a doctor may recommend anticonvulsants. Although initially developed to address seizures, such medications can also help FM pain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved pregabalin, duloxetine hydrochloride, and milnacipran HCI for FM treatment, as they reduce nerve pain.

3. Get Massage Therapy

Massage relaxes your muscles, reduces tension, and increases your range of motion. It may also help reduce anxiety and depression.

Based on a review of studies examining the efficacy of therapeutic massage for FM relief, researchers suggest that starting with light massages and increasing intensity gradually may be beneficial. For optimal results, they recommend scheduling one to two sessions per week.

For help managing your fibromyalgia in Cornelia, GA, turn to Spectrum Healthcare. This medical clinic provides a comprehensive array of procedures, including massage therapy. Their team is known for the personalized and dedicated care they provide each patient. They will take the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly understand your symptoms, and create a tailored treatment plan. Visit their website for a full list of their health care services, or call (706) 778-0077 to schedule an appointment.