Fibromyalgia . . .

Fibromyalia Syndrome (FMS) is a complex disorder, a loose collection of symptoms. The causes of FMS could be as varied as whiplash or emotional trauma. In 1993 the WHO established the official diagnosis for FMS using the Fibromyalgia Tender Points as a foundation.

Reducing Fibromyalgia Symptoms
With knowledge one can find relief from the debilitating pain.

• Exercise - even tho' this might be the last thing you would like to do, it is very beneficial. Start out with gentle exercise. Take a short walk. Stop before you get tired. Many with FMS find swimming an excellent choice. The most important thing is that you start.
• The food you eat and the amounts are important. Reaccess your diet to improve it for improved health.
  
• Apply heat to the aching muscles using a damp towel, a warm bath, a hot water bottle.
• Massage stimulates blood flow which helps reduce fibromyalgia symptoms. Research has shown that people who received a 30 minute massage twice a week for 5 weeks had less anxiety and depression as well as lower levels of stress hormones than the control group who did not receive massage.
• Meditation, yoga and Tai Chi can help lower stress levels and increase the flow of the beneficial, stress reducing hormones.
• Seek out a medical practitioner who is helpful and compassionate.

A number of factors can make fibromyalgia symptoms worse.
They include:

• Anxiety
• Changes in weather -- for example, cold or humidity
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Hormonal fluctuations such as PMS or menopause
• Infections
• Lack of sleep or restless sleep
• Periods of emotional stress
• Physical exhaustion
• Sedentary lifestyle