subject: Back Pain And Fibromyalgia (fibrositis). [print this page] . However, those people who experience the painful muscle spasms and pain associated with this condition would try to convince you otherwise.
Fibromyalgia is usually stress-related, and can be brought on by cold, damp weather, and usually affects people from middle age onwards. Sufferers often sit for long periods in a cramped position, such as at desks, or driving for long periods of time. The condition seems to affect people of a nervous, emotional, or anxious disposition, or those suffering from excessive stress.
The symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary in intensity, with aches, pains and tenderness felt in the back mostly, but can affect other parts of the body including shoulders, neck, chest, and knees. The after effects of this condition can make a sufferer feel completely exhausted, both physically and mentally, but no relief is reached at night as sleep is often restless, fitful, and very disturbed.
As for treatment, aromatherapy massage with lavender, chamomile and rosemary can be really beneficial, both on body and mind. You can also use lavender oil in a warm bath to help relief stiffness and pain.
Symptoms of an attack can be reduced by taking Rescue Remedy flower essence. You can buy this in liquid extract form in small bottles, or in pastille form. These are available from all good health food stores and high street chemists. Keep some in your bag or pocket if you suffer frequent attacks.
Finding some suitable stress relieving activities or exercise can be most beneficial for helping to improve the long-term health of fibromyalgia sufferers. Try taking up regular walking in the fresh air each lunchtime for a bit of stress-relief, and to stretch out your muscles. Especially good for people with desk-bound jobs!
Most community swimming pools have early bird sessions, and you may find you can fit in a swim before work. Or if you have to be at work early, see if the pool runs evening swim sessions you could join after work. This would be great for winding down after a stressful day at work, and will aid in restful sleep too.
Ever wanted to learn to dance? There is nothing better than learning a new skill, plus gaining all the health benefits of regular exercise along the way. Dance classes are also a great way of making new friends, who can also help you de-stress and take your mind off your troubles for an evening.
Check at your local community college to see what adult evening classes they run. You may find taking up a new hobby, sport or craft can greatly relieve your stress, and could even lead to new work opportunities that you may not have considered before. Lots of people have changed careers as a result of experiencing new and more enjoyable skills learnt at night school.
