Is Your Health Really in Your Own Hands?
This article is written by Kunal Patel.
Fibromyalgia is a condition where pain and fatigue are constant companions. This can make it really difficult to work in the office. However, it is not impossible.
Making a few changes at the workplace can help in reducing fibromyalgia pain in hands and fingers, shoulders, neck, knees and back. Here are 5 adjustments you can make to help you cope with fibromyalgia during work hours.
1. Take regular breaks
Don’t work till you get exhausted or the pain gets worse. If you have a sedentary job, make sure you take regular breaks. Change positions or move around a bit before you start experiencing pain.
It ensures that you break the cycle of working at a stretch for hours when you feel good. Working for long hours without a break will inflame your muscles or make them stiff. This may eventually result in immense pain that you may have to take a leave the next day.
2. Be prepared for cooler temperatures
Cooler temperatures trigger inflammation which further increases stiffness and pain. Even if you start shivering, it can cause pain if you suffer from fibromyalgia. If your office is generally on the cooler side, carry a sweater or jacket with you.
Dress in layers to stay comfortable regardless of what the temperature at the office is. Keeping yourself warm can provide fibromyalgia hand pain relief.
3. Take care of your feet and hands
Wear comfortable footwear that will cushion your feet, support and keep them warm. For flat shoes like ballet flats, insert extra arch support. If you are required to stand for several hours, take some breaks to sit to rest the feet. You can also use copper compression socks as copper clothing helps in relieving symptoms of fibromyalgia.
It is equally important to keep your hands warm. Apply 10 minutes of heat every hour to relax and soothe the hand muscles. Invest in an inexpensive microwaveable heating pad that can quickly treat sore spots.
4. Move your body regularly
Don’t sit in one position the whole day. Ensure you move your body regularly. Get up every few minutes and walk a bit. Do some quick stretches. Sitting in one position for long hours will do more harm than good.
Try to exercise before or after your work. You may not feel like exercising due to the constant pain and fatigue. However, it is possible to exercise with fibromyalgia. Do low impact exercises like walking, swimming or water aerobics.
5. Manage your work stress
Stress triggers fibromyalgia symptoms. Keep it in check and don’t overstress yourself about anything.
If necessary, talk to your peers and manager about your condition. Be honest and tell them how sometimes the symptoms may make it difficult to work. In most cases, they will be understanding and ensure that you are not inundated with work that can stress you out. Make them your support system as they can help you deal with the work pressure which can worsen fibromyalgia.
If you are unable to work full-time, don’t push yourself. Consider options like working from home or part-time.
To summarize, working can put a lot of pressure on the body and mind. You need to know your limits and when take it easy. Be open about your condition at work and you may find more support than you would imagine.
Author Bio: Kunal Patel is a passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. Copper Defence is his passion, and his life work in partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone.
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