I've been going to an Osteopath for awhile now. I realize how important this type of therapy is to me! I do find great relief with a weekly to two weekly visit. Depending on what country you live in, it could be covered under a medical or insurance scheme, so you could be lucky there. In some countries - too bad so sad! I live in one of those countries. My Osteo is amazing though, he's given me a great 'deal', a savings of $10 which is better than nothing and very appreciated. Mostly because it does bring me some relief.
Originally my Dr (yes the one who said the ever famous "I think you might have a bit of fibromyalgia" - still cracks me up!) didn't even suggest going to an Osteopath for my muscular skeletal issues, but I kept going back with chest tightness, so after quite some time (like 2 years) he had a thought that it might do me some good - thanks Doc!
I have to say I have never looked back. You have to find a good Osteopath though, one that understands chronic pain, and actually believes that Fibro is a true syndrome. I ask him questions all the time about this kind of pain, and he is very honest with me. He says there aren't a lot of answers to why, but they do know that you have to do whatever it is that works for you, so keep trying. If osteopathic therapy works, do it, if swimming works, do it, if meditation works, do it. But try everything until you come up with what works for you (bar hardcore drugs of course!!!!). Although I am sure many have been driven to it! I'm guessing Fibro in prison would be a tad worse than Fibro out of prison!
Some days when the myofascial pain is very sensitive particularly around my hips and thighs or my shoulders, my Osteo still works on this areas but incredibly gently, because he understands this kind of pain. I really believe that if someone didn't understand it they wouldn't be so considerate. So I have to say I hope that I don't have to go forever, or we'll be really broke, ha!... but I will keep going until I can have at least 4 weeks between without feeling that I can't be without. I usually make a major effort to go right before a work trip so that I have that relief for that time I'm away. I'm sure that it is my one thing that I won't give up for quite some time. Thank you my wonderful Osteopath!
An interesting article:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/70381.php
Might be worth a try fellow Fibroees!
Pardon my ignorance, but what is osteopath? I have found some relief with physical therapy combined with natural treatments, but looking to explore other treatment options, too.
ReplyDeleteNo worries - the article in my blog has a good explanation but here is an excerpt:
DeleteThe philosophy of Osteopathy is what sets it apart from other medical disciplines. The key principles are based on all parts of the body functioning together in an integrated manner. If one part of the body is restricted, then the rest of the body must adapt and compensate for this, eventually leading to inflammation, pain, stiffness and other health conditions. When the body is free of restrictions in movement, Osteopathic treatment assists the body with pain minimisation, reduced stress and greater mobility providing the body with the opportunity to heal itself.
Osteopaths use a broad range of gentle hands-on techniques including soft tissue stretching, deep tactile pressure, and mobilisation or manipulation of joints.
*I definitely recommend it!!
I have found great relief from going to the osteopath and also was lucky enough to find a massage therapist who understands myofascial release therapy. This is the best thing that helps me with relieving the pain from fibromyalgia and I just wish I could afford more treatments.
ReplyDeleteIt's not cheap that is for real!!! Whenever you can, keep at it if it feels good and relieves pain. Another thing I'm going to blog about today is a physio ball - google it, can quietly build core muscles!
DeleteYou have an interesting blog and welcome to the land of fibro bloggers. i do wish you all the best for this coming week and with your blog too.
ReplyDeleteThanks Patricia. I really hope that anyone who experiences any chronic pain knows that their pain is real and maybe giving them extra support by letting them know there are others out there going through the same difficult journey, can help in some way. Life can be tough enough as it is, add chronic pain to that and you've got to be a pretty tough character - that is for sure!!!
DeleteMany thanks for your comment. :)