NFRA Resources

TREATMENT OPTIONS

In 1992 when NFRA was founded, there were only 200 published medical journal articles about fibromyalgia. Today, there are more than 2500. Many positive steps have been taken in research and in supplying patients with more opportunities to address their individual FM symptoms and quality of life issues. Research consistently shows that a multi-disciplinary approach to fibromyalgia is the most productive for the physician and patient. As more information becomes available, the “toolbox” of treatments that can be used effectively by physicians and patients continues to grow. Rarely will one “tool” be sufficient – fibromyalgia can only be tamed by considering and implementing many options.

Medications
There is no one medication that works for all fibromyalgia patients. Medical professional and patient must work together to determine what medication or combination of medications is most effective for each individual patient. It can be time consuming, but the results can be tremendous. Frequently Prescribed Fibromyalgia Medications is a good place to start. (As of April 2007, there is no medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the treatment of fibromyalgia. However, there is research backing up the use of medications “off-label” for the treatment of fibromyalgia, and research studies that will lead to the approval of mediations continue.)

Researchers and practicing physicians continue to seek even better options. Abstracts of published articles highlighting newer medications and studies are included here.

Pramipexole
Tramadol/Acetominophen
Milnacipran
Pregabalin
Duloxetine
Pindolol
Ketamine

Gabapentin

Neurological
The examination that the physician completes when considering a fibromyalgia diagnosis should include a basic neurological exam and referral to a neurological professional and MRI if the exam indicates even minimal neurological deficits. Read further about these conditions with overlapping symptoms by going to Central Nervous System. In the Neurological Connection to Fibromyalgia section we have included a checklist for patients to use to consider if they might have an overlapping neurological condition. We’ve also included contact information for two surgeons that we believe truly understand the intersection of these two conditions.

Exercise Exercise is critical for fibromyalgia patients. It has an impact on the quality of sleep and helps to keep unaffected muscles strong to improve your quality of life. Fibromyalgia Information Foundation has DVDs available on Aerobic Exercise, Stretching and Relaxation and Strength and Balance. The DVDs have been developed and produced by researchers and staff at the Oregon Health and Science University and feature fibromyalgia patients.

Vitamins
Vitamin and mineral supplementation can help boost your immune system and help supply energy. To Your Health is a recognized leader in quality supplements for fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and chronic pain. Based on her husband’s successful experience with natural therapies for his fibromyalgia, Margy Squires turned his desire to help others into reality. TyH’s non-drug supplement program has changed thousands of lives across America for the better by decreasing pain and increasing energy, sleep and overall health. Other TyH innovations which simplify their supplement program are a vitamin-mineral powder, Foundation FormulaTM and FMS/CFS Kits, which take the guesswork out of supplement taking. Margy and the TyH team also offer telephone support, education via their company newsletter, Health Points, and sponsors local and national conferences.

Sleep
Non restorative sleep is a frequent symptom of fibromyalgia. There is much you can do, as a patient, to try to improve your sleep. Consider these TIPS from the Taking Charge of Fibromyalgia book by Julie Kelly, MS, RN and Rosalie Devonshire, MSW, LCSW. Also, discuss with your medical professional whether a sleep study is called for to determine if you have a sleep disorder.

Education
Education and self management is critical in chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. Visit our Patient Resources section and Shopping Cart for recommendations of books, videos, newsletters and websites. Make sure you are doing everything you can to be a strong member of the team working to improve your fibromyalgia symptoms.