Pain Relief for Fibromyalgia

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Overview

Nondrug methods of relieving pain may be helpful for people who have fibromyalgia. These can include:

  • Applying heating pads or taking warm baths or showers.
  • Gentle massage of painful muscles.
  • Regular exercise to help strengthen muscles, which will make them less likely to be injured.

Nonprescription pain relievers are not very helpful for people with fibromyalgia. Small doses of acetaminophen (such as Tylenol), aspirin (such as Bayer), ibuprofen (such as Advil), or naproxen (such as Aleve) may offer short-term relief of muscle pain when your symptoms flare up. Daily long-term use does not seem to be effective. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

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Credits

Current as of: July 17, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.