5 Fibromyalgia Treatments for the Elderly

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Common Fibromyalgia Treatments in Winnipeg, MB

Chronic pain, anxiety, concentration, and irritable bowel syndrome are just some of the symptoms seniors with fibromyalgia regularly experience. If your senior loved one has this condition, he or she can try the following treatments. 

1. Acupuncture & Electroacupuncture

Both of these treatments can be very beneficial to those who have chronic pain. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to help with medical conditions ranging from inflammation to bacterial infections. When combined with gentle electrical impulses, it often helps seniors with fibromyalgia who have stiff joints, chronic pain, and IBS. Providing transportation to medical appointments is just one of the many ways a professional caregiver can help your loved one. Elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

2. Therapy

Many of the side effects of fibromyalgia also impact emotional wellbeing. Antidepressants may be effective for treating psychological issues your loved one is experiencing, and ongoing therapy can help your loved one with a wide variety of secondary complications, from paranoia to anxiety.

3. Vitamin D

A small clinical study conducted in 2012 found subjects with fibromyalgia were able to address their symptoms after taking vitamin D supplements for eight weeks. In addition to taking supplements, your loved one should also try to be in the sun for at least 15 minutes a day so his or her body can naturally produce vitamin D. This nutrient helps with many different processes in the human body, such as repairing soft tissue and suppressing discomfort. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare services, Winnipeg, MB, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

4. Anti-Seizure Medication

While seizures aren’t a common side effect of fibromyalgia, this type of medication, which has been designed to prevent epileptic episodes, can alleviate many of the symptoms of this progressive disorder. Both pregabalin and gabapentin can reduce side effects like insomnia, general discomfort, and depression. 

5. Capsaicin Creams

During a fibromyalgia flare-up, many of the nerve clusters near the surface of the skin begin to misfire. There’s no permanent way to repair the nerves, but capsaicin cream can naturally trigger the release of certain chemicals that lessen pain. These products have even been put into spray bottles so seniors who have challenges with dexterity can quickly and evenly apply the ointment to their skin. If your loved one has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and you’re not able to meet his or her needs, consider enlisting the help of a professional home caregiver. Seniors living with serious health conditions often need extensive assistance in and outside the home. Home Care Assistance is a trusted provider of Winnipeg live-in care. Our caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with bathing, grooming, light housekeeping, and various other daily tasks, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (204) 489-6000.

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