Treatment

• Family physicians, neurologists and rheumatologists are generally quite knowledgeable about the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia. Find a primary-care physician who is comfortable with treating a fibromyalgia patient. Start with your own physician, but don't hesitate to look elsewhere if he is unable to help you manage your fibromyalgia symptoms. Your general physician can recommend specific therapies, as well as prescribe non-narcotic pain relievers to help you manage pain.
  
  A neurologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system disorders. These disorders include neuropathy and fibromyalgia, both of which often require therapy and medication for managing symptoms. A neurologist can assess your muscle pain and generalized pain, and make appropriate treatment recommendations.
  
  A rheumatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other diseases that affect the muscles, joints and bones. A rheumatologist can also help you manage muscle pain and tender points by making recommendations for therapy and medication.
  
  Seek out a pain specialist who is familiar with fibromyalgia. Pain specialists include oncologists, anesthesiologists, neurologists and psychiatrists who have received special training for pain management. A pain specialist can work with you to come up with solutions to treat the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
  
  Physical therapy can tone muscles and improve balance and flexibility, which in turn may reduce your pain. Seek out a physical therapist that specializes in fibromyalgia patients. In addition to providing you with special exercises and stretches, a physical therapist can apply hot or cold packs to reduce inflammation and pain. Participate in physical therapy on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to maintain muscle tone and flexibility.
  
  Manage stressful situations and how you deal with fibromyalgia by speaking to a therapist. Counseling and behavioral therapy can help you increase your self-esteem, strengthen your abilities and learn coping methods for stressful situations and pain.