Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Help Fibromyalgia?

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and does it Help Fibromyalgia?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It’s most commonly used to treat depression, but research shows it may also help with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.

How It Works

• A device with an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp.

• It sends magnetic pulses into specific areas of your brain—usually the motor cortex or prefrontal cortex.

• These pulses activate neurons and can help regulate brain activity linked to pain perception, mood, and fatigue.

A magnetic coil is positioned on the patient's head. IMAGE: Baburov

Types of TMS

• Repetitive TMS (rTMS): Delivers pulses in rapid succession. This is the most studied form for fibromyalgia.

• Deep TMS: Reaches deeper brain structures and is used for more complex conditions.

For Fibromyalgia

Studies suggest rTMS may:

• Reduce pain intensity

• Improve quality of life

• Ease fatigue, anxiety, and depression

• Offer relief lasting weeks after treatment

It’s typically done in a clinic, with sessions lasting around 30–40 minutes, several times a week for a few weeks.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), specifically repetitive TMS (rTMS), is emerging as a promising non-invasive therapy for fibromyalgia. Using magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted areas of the brain, rTMS may help modulate pain perception and improve mood—two major challenges for people living with fibromyalgia.

New Research:

rTMS Shows Pain Relief and Quality of Life Improvements

A 2022 study published by the National Institutes of Health found that rTMS significantly relieved pain and enhanced quality of life in fibromyalgia patients. This supports growing clinical interest in using brain stimulation to manage chronic pain conditions.

More Than Just Pain Relief:

rTMS Reduces Anxiety, Depression, and Fatigue

A 2025 study published in SpringerOpen reported that rTMS not only reduced pain, but also lowered anxiety, depression, and fatigue levels in fibromyalgia patients. These findings suggest that rTMS may offer a more holistic benefit, targeting both physical and emotional symptoms.

Functional Gains:

Improved Function and Lasting Effects

According to Neuralia TMS, a 2018 study in the Journal of Pain Research showed that TMS effectively reduced pain and improved function in people with fibromyalgia. Another study published on ScienceDirect in 2025 found that pain relief from rTMS lasted up to 8 weeks post-treatment, with an excellent effect size.

Real-World Therapy:

What Clinics Are Saying

Smart TMS reports that studies consistently show rTMS relieves pain and enhances quality of life for fibromyalgia patients. Beyond pain relief, TMS also appears to reduce fatigue and improve emotional well-being.

So, Does TMS Help?

The evidence is stacking up: rTMS may be a powerful tool in the fibromyalgia treatment arsenal. It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and shows promise in reducing pain, fatigue, and mood-related symptoms. While more large-scale trials are needed, current research suggests that TMS could offer meaningful relief for many fibro patients.

Have you tried TMS therapy? Did it help your fibromyalgia symptoms? Share your experience below—we’d love to hear from real people living with fibro.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and I am not recommending any specific treatment. I have not personally tried these therapies. This article is for informational purposes only and is based on published research. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Different approaches work for different people, and what helps one person may not help another.

Sources: 

Oxford Academic  –rTMS for Fibromyalgia

SpringerOpen 

Neuralia TMS 

Smart TMS 

Neurotherapeutics

You might also like to read:

• 36 things to try when you have Fibromyalgia
• My experiences with starting hydrotherapy for fibromyalgia
• Keeping my house clean when chronically ill

Does Activity Pacing Really Help with Fibromyalgia? A Study Says Yes

 If you live with fibromyalgia, you’ve probably heard the advice: “Just pace yourself.” But what does that actually mean—and does it work?

A UK study tested a new way of teaching activity pacing to people with chronic pain and fatigue, including those with fibromyalgia. The results are promising and could help you better manage your symptoms.

What Is Activity Pacing?

Activity pacing is a strategy to help you balance activity and rest. Instead of pushing through pain or crashing after doing too much, pacing teaches you to:

• Break tasks into smaller chunks

• Take regular rest breaks

• Plan your day around your energy levels

• Avoid the boom-and-bust cycle

But here’s the catch: pacing advice can vary wildly depending on who you ask. That’s why researchers created a standardised activity pacing framework—a consistent way for healthcare professionals to teach pacing.

What Did the Study Do?

The study took place in a UK NHS pain clinic and included 107 adults with conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic back pain.

Participants joined a six-week rehabilitation program that followed the new pacing framework. Researchers tracked changes in symptoms like:

• Pain

• Fatigue (physical and mental)

• Depression and anxiety

• Self-confidence

• Physical and mental function

• Quality of life

They also looked at how well patients stuck with the program and how satisfied they were.

What Were the Results?

• 77% of eligible patients joined the study

• 89% attended at least five sessions

• Satisfaction scores averaged 9 out of 10

• Symptoms improved during the program

• Improvements were still noticeable three months later

In short: pacing helped. People felt better, functioned better, and learned how to manage their symptoms more effectively.

READ THE STUDY RESULTS

Other interesting articles:

• What works for me to help Fibromyalgia

• Practical Tips for Weather Sensitivity when living with Fibromyalgia

• Self-care strategies that help me manage pain

What helps you stay hopeful on tough days?

Lying in bed on a bad day. 

On tough days, I’ve found that hope doesn’t always come in big, dramatic moments—it often shows up quietly.

Sometimes it’s a message from a friend who just gets it. Or a walk outside where the air feels gentle and the sky reminds me that everything changes. Other times, it’s reading someone else’s story and realizing I’m not alone in this. Or understanding that there is a whole community of people out there who also live with chronic pain and try to support each other when they can. 

I’ve learned to look for small wins: getting out of bed, making a cup of tea, writing a few lines in my journal. Those tiny acts remind me that I’m still moving, still trying, still here.

Sitting on the verandah with a cup of tea on tough days can be a good achievement. 

And honestly, giving myself permission to rest—without guilt—has been one of the most hopeful things of all. It tells me I’m worthy of care, even when I’m not at my best. Someone said to me, "just give yourself grace for all you have lived through" and after so many years of chronic pain that really resonated with me. 

Also remembering that I have been through many flare ups of symptoms before and this too shall pass. 

Sometimes I need to talk and I reach out to the many helpful call lines where I live in Australia like Sane Mental Health or Lifeline. That helps me get my thoughts more in order and have contact with a non judgemental listener. 

What helps you stay hopeful? I’d love to hear. Please let me know in the comments. 

You might also like to read:

• Do you allow yourself to ask for support?
• Self care strategies that help me manage pain
• Natural treatments for fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia Self-Care Strategies That Help Me Manage Pain

Why You Should Read This: I've learned eight life-changing strategies. Here are the most effective ways to manage the pain and fatigue of Fibromyalgia.

Living with fibromyalgia has taught me to listen to my body in ways I never expected. Pain isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, relational, and deeply personal. Over time, I’ve gathered a toolkit of self-care strategies that help me feel more grounded, less overwhelmed, and more in control of my day. These aren’t cures, and they don’t erase the hard days, but they help me move through them with a little more grace.

If you’re navigating fibromyalgia too, I hope something here resonates with you.

1. Pacing Over Pushing

I used to push myself through pain, thinking I had to keep up or prove something. Now I pace. I break tasks into smaller steps, rest before I crash, and let go of guilt when I need to pause. 

TIP: use timers and visual checklists to stay on track without burning out. It’s not laziness — it’s wisdom.

2. Gentle Movement That Feels Safe

Some days, even stretching feels impossible. But when I can, gentle movement helps loosen the stiffness and calm my nervous system. I’ve found comfort in slow walks, restorative yoga, and even just swaying to music in my kitchen. I keep a “flare day movement menu” — short, low-impact options that feel doable when everything hurts. 

TIP: start stretching each morning while lying in bed. The mattress and pillow supports you and you can do slow and small movements like turning your head from side to side to reduce neck pain etc.

3. Protecting My Sleep

Sleep is sacred, and fibromyalgia makes it elusive. I’ve created a bedtime routine that helps: no screens after 9pm, herbal tea, magnesium, and painkillers if needed. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress.

TIP: The temperature of your room really matters. Work out what is right for you in each season. 

4. Calming My Nervous System

Mind-body practices have been a lifeline. I use guided meditations (especially ones made for chronic pain), breathwork, and journaling to help me process the emotional weight of living with fibromyalgia. Even two minutes of deep breathing can shift my pain response. I remind myself: my body is not the enemy — it’s asking for care.

TIP: Find an app or a Youtube video you like and listen to it for guided meditations or breathwork. 

5. Nourishing Myself Without Pressure

Food can be complicated, especially when energy is low and sensitivities are high. I aim for anti-inflammatory meals when I can — leafy greens, berries, omega-3s — but I also give myself grace. Hydration helps, and I keep easy snacks nearby for days when cooking feels impossible.

TIP: Greek yoghurt, nuts and fruit is a great easy go to meal on high pain days. 

6. Tracking What Hurts (and What Helps)

I keep a simple pain journal to notice patterns. Weather changes, stress, certain foods — they all play a role. Tracking helps me feel less confused and more empowered. It also gives me language to advocate for myself with doctors and loved ones.

TIP: Do this in your calendar so you know where it is. 

7. Finding My People

Fibromyalgia can feel isolating, but connection is medicine. I’ve found comfort in online communities, support groups, and honest conversations with people who get it. Sharing my story — and hearing others — reminds me I’m not alone. We’re all figuring this out together.

8. Setting Boundaries That Protect Me

This one’s been hard, but life-changing. I’ve learned to say no without apology, to ask for accommodations, and to protect my energy like it’s sacred. Scripts help. My favorite: “I’d love to, but I need to rest today.” Boundaries aren’t walls — they’re bridges to safer, more honest relationships.

TIP: Don't say yes to every request, say "I'll check my diary and get back to you".

 Key Takeaways that help me manage pain for Quick Reference

Category	The Takeaway	Actionable Strategy
Pacing & Energy	Pace, don't push. Viewing rest not as failure, but as an essential, proactive strategy to prevent a crash.	Use timers and visual checklists to break down tasks and rest before you hit your limit.
Physical Relief	Movement should be gentle and supported. On difficult days, low-impact motion is medicine for stiffness and the nervous system.	Start with slow, small movements while still lying in bed (like turning your head side-to-side) for safe relief.
Mind & Body	Calm your nervous system first. Two minutes of intentional breathing or meditation can shift your brain's pain response.	Always have a go-to app or YouTube video for quick, guided breathing or meditation.
Boundaries & Support	Boundaries are bridges, not walls. Protecting your energy is a non-negotiable part of self-care.	Adopt a delay tactic like, "I'll check my diary and get back to you," instead of immediately saying yes to requests.

Final Thoughts

Fibromyalgia asks us to live gently, intentionally, and with deep self-compassion. These strategies help me feel more like myself — even on the hard days. If you’re reading this, I hope you know: your pain is real, your needs are valid, and you deserve care that honors your whole self.

If you’ve found a self-care practice that helps, I’d love to hear about it. Let’s keep building a toolkit to manage Fibromyalgia.

You might also like to read:

• Do you allow yourself to ask for support?
• The influence of weather on fibro - a survey
• Natural treatments for fibromyalgia

My Travel Essentials: What I Always Pack as Someone Living with Fibromyalgia

Planning a trip is overwhelming for me as someone who lives with chronic pain and ongoing health issues. Forgetting even one small thing can make travel much harder than it needs to be. Over time, I’ve learned what really helps me stay comfortable, safe, and able to enjoy my time away. I recently went on a 5 week trip to Europe and this is what I took. 

The Right Bag Matters

Carrying heavy luggage is tough on my body, so I always choose a lightweight suitcase or backpack with smooth-rolling wheels and strong handles. I also prefer bags with compartments—it saves me energy because I don’t have to dig around looking for things when I’m already tired.

Power and Connectivity

A universal adapter and a power bank are must-haves. When I rely on my phone for medication reminders, maps, or emergency contacts, I can’t afford for the battery to die while I’m out. Having backup power gives me peace of mind. I actually forgot a universal adaptor on my recent holiday and it caused unwanted, unnecessary issues in both Bangkok and Europe, which have different plugs. The hotels did not provide universal adapters and I had to pay for taxis and travel to the shop and buy one before I could use my essential CPAP machine, for sleep apnea or charge my phone. 

Essential Documents

Because unexpected things happen (especially with chronic illness), I make sure all my paperwork is organized:

• Passport & visas (with at least six months validity).

• Travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions—this one is especially important for me.

• A list of emergency contacts, including my doctor’s details, my insurance provider, and a family member at home.

• A list of my medications from the doctor in case customs query any tablets.

• Copies of my prescriptions. (My husband has twice now left meds in hotel bathrooms, which has had dire consequences.)

• A letter from my doctor stating that the CPAP machine is an essential medical device. This is so it can be carried as extra hand luggage on top of the air lines hand luggage requirements. 

Health & Medication Kit

This is my most important packing category. I travel with:

• My daily prescriptions and vitamins (kept in original bottles).

• Pain relief options (both medication and comfort items, like heat patches).

• Allergy tablets medication.

• A small first aid kit and hand sanitizer.

• 2 pairs of my prescription glasses. On one holiday I learnt my lesson when my glasses broke and I could not get them fixed and struggled with reading for the rest of the journey. 

• Sunglasses and hat are essential when you do not cope well with glare and bright sun.

• Sunscreen. This was so expensive in Europe I was so glad I remembered to pack my favourite face one which I also used on my body. 

I pack these in my carry-on so they’re always with me. I’ve learned to bring more medication than I think I’ll need—delays happen, and I can’t risk running out.

Clothing That Works for My Body

Comfort is key when you live with pain or fatigue. I pack layers that are easy to slip on and off depending on the weather, breathable fabrics that don’t irritate my skin, or need much ironing and clothes that won’t dig in if I’m sitting for long stretches.

Supportive, cushioned shoes are also non-negotiable. I need footwear that’s kind to my joints, especially if I’m walking more than usual. I usual travel with 2 pairs of joggers and a pair of slip on thongs for beach/pool/sauna. 

I travel light and have reduced my clothing down to 3 t-shirts, 1 dressier blouse, 3 pants, 1 swimming costume and matching sarong, 1dress, and alight weight long sleeve shirt. If there is colder weather I add a heat tech singlet and a puffer jacket and scarf. I stick to one color scheme so that all the clothes mix and match. 

Staying Organized Without Wasting Energy

Packing cubes and travel organizers help me save precious energy. Knowing exactly where my medications, documents, and comfort items are means I don’t waste time rummaging through my bag when I’m already drained. That is so frustrating!

Safety & Security

I carry a money belt so I can keep my passport, cards, and cash close without adding stress about theft. Two of the hotels we stayed in did not have a safe and Air BNB's usually never have a safe. TSA-approved locks on my luggage also make me feel more secure when I can’t keep an eye on my bag.

Comfort & Rest

Because chronic pain often flares when I don’t sleep well, I always pack:

• A sleep mask and earplugs to help me rest on planes or in noisy hotels. I have finally found re-shapeable wax ear plugs that are comfortable.

• A lightweight travel pillow so I can support my neck and back on long journeys.

• Heating strips —for pain relief on the go. I am happy with the non smelly ones recommended by my doctor. 

Hydration & Snacks

Staying hydrated and eating regularly helps me manage energy crashes. I always carry a reusable water bottle and a few healthy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, or muesli bars, protein bars) that don’t need refrigeration. That way, I don’t have to rely on whatever’s available when fatigue hits.

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Travel Essentials Checklist (Chronic Illness & Chronic Pain Edition)

🧳 Luggage & Organization

• Lightweight suitcase or backpack with sturdy wheels/handles

• Packing cubes or travel organizers (save energy and time)

• TSA-approved luggage locks

• Money belt for passport, cards, and cash

🔌 Power & Tech

• Universal adapter (for international trips)

• Power bank/portable charger

• Charging cables in carry-on

📄 Important Documents

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Visas (if required)

• Travel insurance with pre-existing condition cover

• Copies of prescriptions (paper + digital)

• Emergency contacts: doctor, embassy, insurer, trusted family/friend

• Copies of all documents stored in a safe, separate spot

💊 Medications & Health Supplies

• All prescription medications (in original packaging)

• Extra supply in case of delays

• Pain relief (medication, heat/cold patches, TENS unit if helpful)

• Allergy tablets, motion sickness tablets

• Small first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)

• Hand sanitizer or wipes

• Sunscreen 

👕 Clothing & Footwear

• Weather-appropriate clothing (layering options are best)

• Soft, breathable fabrics that don’t irritate skin

• Comfortable walking shoes with cushioning and support

• sunglasses and hat

• 2 pairs of prescription glasses

😴 Comfort & Rest

• Neck pillow for flights/bus rides

• Sleep mask + earplugs (for noisy/light environments)

• Any small comfort aid (wrap, cushion, or heating pad if space allows)

🥤 Food & Hydration

• Reusable water bottle (stainless steel if possible)

• Healthy snacks: nuts, dried fruit, protein bars, crackers

• Electrolyte packets or rehydration sachets (helpful during flare-ups or fatigue)

📚 Entertainment & Mental Ease

• E-reader or small paperback book

• Downloaded music, podcasts, or audiobooks for downtime

• Journal or notebook (optional but grounding)

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Tip: Keep medications, documents, and comfort items in your carry-on so they’re always accessible.

Tip: Pack more meds and supplies than you think you’ll need—you can’t always get refills easily abroad.

Tip: Build in extra rest time in your travel schedule to avoid flare-ups.

5 best things to help with fibromyalgia symptoms (according to those living with it.)

 

Here are 5 of the most commonly recommended things to help manage fibromyalgia symptoms, based on feedback from people living with the condition, personal blogs, and fibro-focused communities:

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1. 💤 Pacing & Resting Without Guilt

“Learning to stop before you crash was a game changer.”

• Pacing involves balancing activity and rest to avoid flare-ups (also known as the push-crash cycle).

• Many people track energy levels and schedule rest breaks throughout the day—even during “good days.”

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2. 🧘‍♀️ Gentle Movement (Yoga, Stretching, Walking)

“If I don’t move, I stiffen up. If I overdo it, I crash. It’s a weird balance.”

• Regular low-impact movement is often reported to reduce stiffness, improve mood, and even help sleep.

• Popular choices include:

  • Restorative or chair yoga

  • Short daily walks

  • Tai chi 

  • Hydrotherapy or gentle aqua aerobics

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3. 🌿 Heat Therapy & Comfort Measures

“Heat packs are my lifeline—especially for my back and shoulders.”

• Common go-tos: microwavable heat packs, heated blankets, hot showers, or Epsom salt baths.

• Many find heat soothing for muscles and helpful in getting to sleep or easing flare-up days.

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4. 🍽️ Anti-Inflammatory Diet & Supplements

“I noticed a huge difference when I cut out sugar and gluten.”

• Some people with fibromyalgia feel better when they focus on whole foods, reduce processed foods, or cut inflammatory triggers.

• Common diet tweaks:

  • Mediterranean or “clean eating” approach

  • Limiting gluten, dairy, sugar, or caffeine

  • Adding foods like oily fish, berries, turmeric, leafy greens

• Popular supplements (after speaking with a doctor): magnesium, vitamin D, omega-3s, CoQ10, and B vitamins. You can get my recommended brands here

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5. 🤝 Support & Mental Health Care

“Having someone believe me made all the difference.”

• Emotional support helps people cope with the isolation, unpredictability, and grief fibromyalgia can bring.

• What helps:

  • Online fibro support groups or communities 

  • Talking therapy, CBT, or mindfulness

  • Supportive friends, family, or partners who listen and validate

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💬 Bonus Voices from the Community:

• “I keep a ‘flare kit’—with my meds, heat pack, compression gloves, and a distraction like audiobooks.”

• “Tracking symptoms helped me connect the dots between food, sleep, and pain.”

• “No one fix works every day. It’s like a toolbox. You grab what helps most that day.”

There are a few links to Amazon products in this article. I am an affiliate and have a Fibro Store which means I do earn a small percentage if you purchase any of these product. (Just so you know).