Pain Relief for Fibromyalgia

Pain Relief for Fibromyalgia

British Columbia Specific Information

Many Canadians are affected by Complex Chronic Diseases (CCD). CCDs are illnesses that last a long time, require treatment and management and often do not get better on their own. Examples of CCDs are:

  • Fibromyalgia (FM)
  • Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
  • Chronic Lyme Disease

To learn more about FM, ME or chronic Lyme-like disease, visit HealthLinkBC's Complex chronic diseases health feature.

Overview

Non-drug methods of relieving pain may be helpful for people who have fibromyalgia. These can include:

  • Applying heating pads or taking warm baths or showers.
  • Gentle massage of painful muscles.
  • Regular exercise to help strengthen muscles, which will make them less likely to be injured.

Non-prescription pain relievers are not very helpful for people with fibromyalgia. Small doses of acetaminophen (such as Tylenol), aspirin (such as Entrophen), ibuprofen (such as Advil), or naproxen (such as Aleve) may offer short-term relief of muscle pain when your symptoms flare up. Daily long-term use does not seem to be effective. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

Credits

Current as of: November 9, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine
Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Karin M. Lindholm DO - Neurology