laura1983

Close Fibromyalgia

I have had symptoms since childhood. Mostly CFS but the pain really started when I was pregnant with my son and has never gone away. I haven't been able to hold down a job (even part time) because of fibro flare ups. I really need to find a job that I can do. I struggle with daily activities and household chores. I am frustrated because it's an invisible illness and my Doctor(s) haven't been much help.

Treatments

Acupressure Working / Worked

Reflexology and acupressure are wonderful, but expensive and I can't afford them on a regular basis (which is what you need to keep up with it)

Aqua Therapy Somewhat Helpful

It's nice at the time but the effects are short lasting.

Cymbalta Not Working

I didn't find any difference on Cymbalta

Effexor Not Working

I was on this for several months but eventually came off it because it's expensive and I didn't find it helpful

Heat Somewhat Helpful

Again, short lasting effects

Neurontin Too Soon to Tell

This is the latest of the long line of meds I've been put on. I find it makes me really tired, which isn't good because I have a 5 year old son who needs my attention. I am also worried about weight gain as a side effect

TENS Not Working

I found this torture. I didn't like the sensations at all. I found it caused more pain.

Massage Working / Worked

Great., if only I could have 1 1/2 times per week.

Physical Exercise Working / Worked

It's sooo hard to do but it always makes me feel a little better

Chiropractic Adjustment Not Working

Didn't help at all, well maybe for about 20 mins after I would be a little better. Very expensive and very short term effects

Celexa Somewhat Helpful

It helps take the edge off a little but not enough to brag about

Clonazepam Somewhat Helpful

Helps a little

Ativan Working / Worked

but makes me very tired

Magnesium Somewhat Helpful

It really depends what form you get it in. I had one kind that was great but can't remember what form or where I got it (brain fog)

Tylenol Not Working

Vitamin D Somewhat Helpful

I do feel better on sunny, warm days. I also take a supplement, especially in the winter- but I don't find that does anything, perhaps I need to up the dose?

Pilates Working / Worked

Makes me feel stronger! Gives me strength

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Not Working

Sleep Somewhat Helpful

The balance is hard to achieve. Sleeping too little is bad, sleeping too much is bad. But I'm always tired so I always want to/do sleep too much, because on just 8 hours I can't function!

Myofascial Release Somewhat Helpful

Again, expensive and needs to be done often

Reflexology Working / Worked

love it, but is expensive and need to do often

Reading Somewhat Helpful

helps take you focus off the pain...distraction method, if only a little

Aspirin Not Working

not strong enough to help the pain

Aromatherapy Somewhat Helpful

it's lovely especially when combined with aqua therapy. But the effects don't last

Occupational Therapy Not Working

St. John\'s Wort Too Soon to Tell

Evening Primrose Oil Too Soon to Tell

L-Arginine Considering

Apple Cider Vinegar Not Working

Flax Somewhat Helpful

Helps keep the bowels clear and therefore helps my body eliminate toxins. it also helps keep my joint lubricated.