Things to Consider if You Have Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and heightened sensitivity to touch. An estimated one in 20 people in the UK have fibromyalgia and it can affect both sexes. Its exact cause is not fully understood, but researchers believe it relates to changes in how the brain and nervous system process pain signals. Put simply, fibromyalgia is when the body becomes more sensitive to pain and pressure.

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia

Some people first develop symptoms after a physical injury, infection, or a period of emotional stress, while others experience a gradual onset with no clear trigger. Hormonal changes, poor sleep, and genetics may also play a role. Women are about six times more likely to be affected than men, but men tend to experience more severe symptoms.

For all these reasons, the condition can be difficult to diagnose, and it can mimic other health problems. Symptoms can even change from day to day. Having said that, the most common symptoms include the following:

• Widespread muscle and joint pain, often described as aching, burning, or throbbing.
• Extreme fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep.
• Morning stiffness and tenderness in specific “trigger points” such as the neck, shoulders, hips and back.
• Poor sleep quality or waking feeling unrefreshed.
• Cognitive difficulties, sometimes called “fibro fog”, making it harder to concentrate or remember things.

Headaches, dizziness and irritable bowel symptoms may also occur.

Flare-ups, whereby symptoms suddenly worsen, are a common feature of fibromyalgia. These are usually triggered by external factors such as stress, anxiety, changes in sleep patterns, overexertion or hormonal fluctuations. Some people even find that cold or damp weather can trigger a flare-up.

Comfort and mobility aids for fibromyalgia

Managing fibromyalgia often means finding the right balance between activity and rest. Mobility and living aids can reduce physical effort, ease pressure on painful muscles and support better posture to both ease symptoms and reduce the likelihood of a flare-up. Think about how some of the following might help:

Lightweight rollators – a lightweight rollator gives you extra support while walking. If you choose a model with a padded seat, you can go out and about, safe in the knowledge that you always have somewhere to rest if fatigue strikes suddenly. Rollators are great for helping you to help maintain gentle movement, which is one of the best ways to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.

Riser recliners – these provide excellent support and are invaluable for easing sore muscles and joints. The recline function allows you to shift positions easily, supporting your back and legs while promoting relaxation. The “rise” feature also makes standing smoother and safer when you are stiff or tired. Some riser recliner models have extra features such as heat or massage functions.

Heat therapy pads – heat helps relax tense muscles and soothe pain signals. Heat therapy cushions or pads can be used on the neck, back, or joints for targeted relief. Some people find alternating hot and cold therapy helps with flare-ups, particularly after gentle stretching.

Adjustable beds – restful sleep is key to managing fibromyalgia symptoms. With an adjustable bed, you can find the most comfortable position for your back and joints, reducing tossing and turning during the night. Slightly raising the upper body can also help ease pressure on muscles and improve breathing.

Orthopaedic cushions – supportive orthopaedic cushions help maintain good posture while sitting. They are especially useful if you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk or watching TV. Memory foam designs that contour to your body shape can relieve tension in the lower back, hips, and shoulders.

Living with fibromyalgia from day to day

Living with fibromyalgia is a challenge because the symptoms can be so unpredictable. But pacing yourself, maintaining gentle movement, and using supportive equipment can make daily life more manageable. It is also important to identify your personal triggers so you can try to minimize flare-ups. This might be by planning rest periods, adapting your environment and making good use of the mobility aids that are right for you in order to reduce strain on muscles and joints.

Fibromyalgia doesn’t have a single cure, and as it affects everyone differently, a personalised care plan is essential. Your GP can help you with this and might also recommend that you speak to a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or pain clinic, depending on the nature and severity of your symptoms.

The care plan is likely to include the following aspects:

• Pacing your activities by alternating gentle movement with rest to avoid overexertion.
• Incorporating low-impact exercise, such as swimming, stretching, or short walks.
• Improving sleep health by aiming for consistent bedtimes and a relaxing pre-sleep routine.
• Creating a comfortable home environment with supportive seating and uncluttered walkways.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques – these might include breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
• Keeping warm – heat helps to prevent stiffness, especially on cold mornings.

More broadly, however, it is important to listen to your body. Some days, you might require more rest, while on others you will feel capable of greater activity. Having living and mobility aids to hand makes it easier to adapt to whatever each day brings as needed.

Read Grace's Story to see how she used mobility aids to help overcame her fibromyalgia diagnosis and regain independence. 

Connecting with other people who are in a similar situation can also be a great help from an emotional perspective. Organisations such as Fibromyalgia Action UK and Pain UK offer a wide range of information and community support.