Things to Try When You Have Fibromyalgia

36 things to try when you have Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects every part of life—pain, fatigue, sleep, mood, and cognition. While there’s no universal fix, there are many strategies that can help you feel better, function more fully, and reclaim your energy. Here’s a comprehensive list of things to try, backed by research and real-life experience.

1. D-Ribose

This naturally occurring sugar helps fuel your cells. Studies by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum showed energy boosts of 45–61% in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue patients. Available as a supplement, many find it improves stamina and mental clarity.

2. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)

PEA is a fatty acid amide that supports the endocannabinoid system and may reduce pain and inflammation. It’s available over the counter and has shown promise in chronic pain conditions including fibromyalgia.

3. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

Originally used to treat addiction, LDN at low doses may help regulate the immune system and reduce pain sensitivity. Many fibro patients report improved sleep and reduced flare-ups.

4. Myofascial Massage

This gentle, sustained-pressure technique targets connective tissue and muscle knots. It can relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce tension without triggering post-massage soreness.

5. Reflexology

By stimulating pressure points on the feet, reflexology may help balance the nervous system and reduce pain perception. It’s a relaxing, non-invasive therapy worth trying.

6. Allergy Testing

Hidden food sensitivities or environmental allergies can exacerbate fibro symptoms. Identifying and eliminating triggers may reduce inflammation and fatigue.

7. Hydrotherapy

Moving in warm water can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and ease pain.

8. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. Some studies suggest it may reduce fibro pain and improve cognitive function by enhancing tissue oxygenation.

 9. Aerobic Exercise

Gentle aerobic activity (walking, swimming, cycling) 2–3 times a week can improve pain, fatigue, and mood. Start slow, increase gradually, and expect some short-term discomfort before long-term gains.

10. Strength Training

Light resistance training can help combat fatigue and improve muscle tone. Combine with endurance exercises for best results.

11. Mindfulness & Meditation

Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve pain tolerance, and calm the nervous system. Even 10 minutes a day can make a difference.

12. Exergaming

Video games that involve movement—like Wii Fit or VR fitness—can be a fun, low-impact way to stay active and engaged.

13. Whole-Body Vibration

Using vibration platforms alongside traditional exercise may reduce fatigue and improve physical function.

14. Balneotherapy

Soaking in mineral-rich baths—like Epsom salts or hot springs—can soothe pain and boost energy.

15. Sleep Hygiene

Better sleep = better everything. Stick to a routine, avoid stimulants before bed, and create a calming sleep environment.

16. Raw Vegetarian Diet

A mostly raw plant-based diet may help reduce fatigue and inflammation. Think fresh veggies, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

17. TENS Units

These portable devices deliver electrical pulses to relieve pain and fatigue. Affordable and widely used.

18. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Noninvasive brain stimulation that may reduce fatigue and improve mood.

19. Electroconvulsive Therapy

Though controversial, ECT has helped some patients with severe fatigue and depression.

20. Cortical Electrostimulation

Another brain-based therapy showing moderate improvement in fatigue.

21. Sensory Motor Rhythm Treatment

A neurofeedback technique that helps regulate brain activity and reduce fatigue.

22. Low-Energy Laser Therapy

Mixed results for fatigue, but promising for pain relief.

23. Pulsed Ultrasound & Interferential Current

These therapies may help with morning fatigue and muscle stiffness.

24–30. Medications That May Help

Some prescription drugs have shown promise in reducing fatigue and improving quality of life:

• Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

• Milnacipran (Savella)

• Fluoxetine (Prozac)

• GHB/Sodium Oxybate (Xyrem)

• Pramipexole (Mirapex)

• Quetiapine (Seroquel)

• Raloxifene (Evista)

31. Acetyl L-Carnitine

An amino acid supplement that may improve mental clarity and energy.

32. Pacing & Planning

Use the “energy envelope” approach—plan your day around your energy levels to avoid crashes. Prioritize, delegate, and rest before you’re exhausted.

33. Multidisciplinary Care

Work with a team—rheumatologists, physiotherapists, psychologists—to address all aspects of fibromyalgia. A holistic approach often yields better results.

34. Yoga

Gentle yoga sequences tailored for chronic illness can ease pain, fatigue, and depression. It’s a calming way to reconnect with your body.

35. Acupuncture

A course of acupuncture treatment has been proven many times to significantly help reduce the pain of fibromyalgia. 

36. The Guaifenesin Protocol for fibromyalgia

It is a strict dietary restriction of salicylates and the use of guaifenesin, an expectorant medication. Some people say this cuts their fibromyalgia pain a lot. 

What’s your go-to strategy for managing fibromyalgia fatigue? Is it on the list? Share your tips in the comments and help others find relief!