Like this:

Everybody with fibromyalgia eventually comes up with their own list of things that help with the pain. These are some of mine:

1. A Hot Bath—not too hot, and not more than 15-20 minutes. The heat relaxes my muscles, but if I stay in too long or the water is super hot, I can trigger exhaustion and more pain.
2. Microwavable Heating Pads–I particularly like the ones by Thermalon that tie around you, and this way I can wear the heating pad and move around the house. http://www.thermalon.com/cart/
3. Electric Heating Pads–for the hardcore pain moments when you can lay down, these are great.  I recommend a large sized moist heating pad, like Thermaphore (the black box) or TheraTherm. Make sure that the one you get has a switch that doesn’t have to be held to stay on.  It is so worth the investment.  Try here: http://www.amazon.com/Thermophore-Arthritis-Pad-Moist-Heating/dp/B000ZHJS0G/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_2 
4. A  Manual Massager–like the TheraCane www.theracane.com. Be careful not to use this too vigorously or it will hurt. But, this cane-like stick thing has rounded ends which are great for gently massaging pressure points on the back that are hard to reach.  
5. An Electric Percussion Massager–I bought mine from Brookstone. A percussion massager actually moves up and down instead of just vibrating, thereby breaking up the muscle tension There are several brands out there, like Homedics, that are available at your local drugstore. 
6. Laying still with a warm blanket –when all else is not available,  I just plop on the couch or bed and lay still for at least 20 minutes with a blanket over me. Even if I don’t feel cold, the warmth helps the pain. I try to relax my mind with a book or television and just zone out for a while.

I  can think of other strategies I use, but I will post them another day.  In the meantime, I would be happy to hear any practical advice on how you deal with pain.  Hope these suggestions help!

Gentle hugs,  April

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