Don’t Let Fibromyalgia Rule Your Life: We Have Treatment Options

If you’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, trying to manage the symptoms can feel like a full-time job. It’s easy to become overwhelmed or unable to participate in activities that used to bring you joy. We can help. After years of working with fibromyalgia patients, Dr. Sachida Manocha understands managing the pain and symptoms associated with fibromyalgia requires an individualized, integrative approach.

The management of fibromyalgia is easy – yet difficult – since a lot depends on your understanding of the disease. There are 3 factors that can flare up a fibromyalgia pain – stress, sleep disturbance and weather. The best way to deal with the FM is to manage these factors – with or without medicines. There is very little role IF ANY, of controlled medicines in the management of the fibromyalgia. During a flare-up, one can use controlled medicines, but a better option is to do a trigger point injection to curb the flare-up.

Here’s how we can improve your life with fibromyalgia:

1. Medications

Over-the-counter pain medications may help alleviate physical discomfort, while the antidepressants and sleep aids can improve mood and sleep. Antidepressants are also used to treat the fatigue and psychological distress that typically comes with fibromyalgia.

But even with all these options, medications alone aren’t typically enough to treat every single symptom. And what’s more? They come with a host of unfavorable side effects. That’s why Dr. Manocha works hard to provide non-pharmaceutical solutions to help you best manage your symptoms while reducing the risk of side effects.

2. Targeted exercise

Therapeutic physical exercise not only reduces the pain associated with fibromyalgia but also improves your physical and mental well-being.

At the Interventional Pain Center, we know starting an exercise regimen while dealing with fibromyalgia can be challenging. Which is why Dr. Manocha works with each patient to create a fitness plan that takes into account their unique health needs and physical limitations.

Low-impact options such as walking, swimming, biking, yoga, tai chi, resistance training, and stretching have all been found helpful in controlling symptoms. And as you progress and your symptoms change, Dr. Manocha will make sure the plan changes along with you to keep providing the maximum benefit.

3. LASER therapy

The primary symptom of fibromyalgia is intense pain throughout the body, including your muscles and joints. The Multiwave Locked System® (MLS) laser therapy offers a noninvasive way to treat these symptoms. The alternative to MLS Laser – the LLLT or the cold laser does also help deal with the trigger points during a flare-up, but the former is much superior.

The MLS laser is a modified Class IV laser that sends two therapeutic wavelengths deep within the tissue and muscle layers. These wavelengths cause a metabolic reaction in the cells that increases circulation, stimulates cell repair, and promotes pain relief. This treatment is a promising option for fibromyalgia patients.

4. Alternative therapies

As part of his integrative approach to pain treatment, Dr. Manocha supports exploration of additional alternative therapies. For example, acupuncture, massage, homeopathy, supplements, and spinal manipulation – all of which have been known to provide relief from fibromyalgia symptoms. Dr. Manocha will work with you to choose the best alternative therapies to complement your treatment plan.

Ready to stop letting fibromyalgia rule your life? Schedule an appointment at the Interventional Pain Center today.