I was diagnosed a little over 2 weeks ago. I haven’t started any medication yet but in the past I had tried Cymbalta, Gralise, and Lyrica for my pain but nothing really worked. Tramadol ER 300 mg is currently the only thing keeping my pain under control. But, like many, I have more than just the pain to work on. I have insomnia, chronic fatigue (the insomnia doesn’t help, I know), the headaches & migraines, nausea, lightheadedness, muscle spasms, etc, etc,etc.
I am not too thrilled about trying this med or that med and even more meds. Especially when I am really sensitive to them and always seem to experience all of the possible side effects. Making my life even more miserable and difficult.
So, I was wondering if anyone has tried anything other than the typical medications and how did it work for you?
Hi Kimberly,
The alternative therapies I have tried include: Hot baths with Epsom salt (which reduces inflammation), icing which has reduced inflammation and swelling as well as pain. Depending on the day and how I'm feeling, icing has been a huge help. Also, I have utilized massage therapy. Typically after I get a massage, I'm sore for a few days, but not a bad sore, more like a relieved sore like my mucles released a lot of the tension. You have to develop a treatment plan with a massage therapist that works for you, and I know massage is not for everyone. I have found that massage often helps with the headaches/migraines as well. For the nausea, I eat melt away mints. It really helps with the nausea and acid reflux. For the muscle spasms, I do take Zanaflex, which is a muscle relaxer. It has significantly reduced my pain and muscle tension. I haven't noticed any side effects with Zanaflex, and I am sensitive to medications like you are.
I hope this helps! : )
Hugs,
Sara