Fibromyalgia is common in seniors and is characterized by muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and depression. According to WebMD, women are 10 times more likely to experience this condition than men. If your loved one has fibromyalgia, here’s a list of five possible treatments.
1. Yoga
A recent study published in the Journal of Pain Research revealed women who practice yoga for 150 minutes a week could substantially reduce their pain levels. Yoga has also been shown to reduce the amount of cortisol in the blood, which can impact mood. Introductory yoga classes are a great option for seniors interested in a low-impact and safe form of exercise.A professional caregiver can help your loved one exercise safely.Home care serviceexperts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
2. 5-HTP
Seniors with fibromyalgia are often deficient in 5-HTP. This amino acid stimulates the production of the “feel-good” chemical known as serotonin. It can also relieve a number of fibromyalgia symptoms, including fatigue, general pain, anxiety, and stiff joints.
3. Antidepressants
Much like 5-HTP, antidepressants trigger the production of vital chemicals and hormones. Antidepressants such as duloxetine and citalopram are currently the only FDA-approved drugs for fibromyalgia. Before taking any antidepressants, seniors should first speak with their doctors to fully understand the side effects of these drugs.If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care Arlington, TX, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
4. Acupuncture
This practice has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of different medical issues ranging from insomnia to inflammation. Recently, researchers have discovered acupuncture reduces several side effects of fibromyalgia. Short acupuncture sessions are almost painless when carried out by an experienced practitioner, and many insurance policies cover some or all of the costs for acupuncture.
5. Manual Lymph Drainage
Massages are an excellent way to manage chronic pain, and manual lymph drainage seems to work well for seniors with fibromyalgia. During these treatments, the masseuses attempt to stimulate the lymph nodes to drain toxins. Traditional and manual lymph drainage massages may alleviate symptoms like IBS, anxiety, and inflamed soft tissue. If your loved one has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and you’re not able to meet his or her needs, consider enlisting the help of a professional home caregiver. Seniors living with serious health conditions often need extensive assistance in and outside the home. Home Care Assistance is a trusted provider of Arlington live-in care. Our caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with bathing, grooming, light housekeeping, and various other daily tasks, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (817) 591-1580 today.