No cure, but grip
Fibromyalgia cannot be cured, and the scientific results of individual treatments vary. What is well substantiated: a combined, multidisciplinary approach helps most people to function better with pain.
What a treatment program could look like
Education about what fibromyalgia is and is not
Understanding what is happening in your body, and that pain is not the same as tissue damage, is already a first step for many people.
Building exercise
Regular and gradually increased exercise, guided by a physiotherapist. or exercise therapist. Building up too quickly first aggravates the symptoms, so dosage is key.
Sleep and relaxation
A regular sleep pattern and relaxation techniques such as yoga or mindfulness can help prevent worsening of symptoms.
Medication for specific symptoms
Pregabalin, amitriptyline or duloxetine can help some of the provide people with short-term relief from pain or sleep problems. The effect varies greatly per person.
Multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation for serious symptoms
An intensive process involving a physiotherapist, psychologist and rehabilitation doctor together, aimed at improving functioning with the pain. For reimbursement, GP, physiotherapy and possibly psychological guidance must usually first be completed.
What you can ask yourself
Ask about the fibromyalgia score
If your GP is unsure, the fibromyalgia score can provide guidance on whether referral to a rheumatologist is a logical next step.
Build exercise seriously and gradually on
Consult with a physiotherapist who has experience with chronic pain, instead of experimenting with intensity on your own.
Actively ask for multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation
For persistent, limiting symptoms, this is a recognised next step, even if it is not always offered on its own.
Prepare a possible WIA assessment for
Record your limitations concretely and factually, for example with a diary. An independent client support worker can help with this free of charge.
🏎 Need immediate help?
In case of immediate danger to yourself or someone else: call 112. Are you in distress or are you thinking about suicide? You can call or chat with 113 Suicide Prevention day and night via 0800-0113. Zorgfuik is not a crisis service and cannot solve acute requests for help, but we think it is important that you know where you can go.