pain relief for fibromyalgia/ arthritis?

Hey Scott, the fact that you're concerned about addiction shows you're responsible and probably won't have any problems. I have some pain medications, but I only take them on rare occasions. Another prescription medicine that helps me on occasion is a muscle relaxer. Because I don't like to feel groggy, I take a half or a quarter of it and it's enough to relax my muscles and ease some of the pain.

One thing my rheumatologist had me start is malic acid with magnesium. You get it at the health food store and I can really tell a difference when I take it. There are several brands out there. Your best bet is going to a smaller health food store. Most of the big chain stores focus on body building and know very little about other supplements. My doctor also suggested CoQ10, Vit. E, sublingual B12, Omega 3, and a really good multivitamin.

I also take anti-inflammatories for the arthritis. Because it's hard on the tummy and liver, my doctor doesn't want me to take it daily on a long term basis. I try to leave it off for several weeks and end up having a flare in my hips and knees. I just started a natural supplement called Joint Support Plus from Ancient Formulas in hopes that I can leave off the anti-inflammatory. I can't really tell you if it's great or not, as I've just started it in the last week or so. So far, so good though! I also began a supplement called Astaxanthin that is supposed to be an excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Dr. Oz was singing it's praises on one of his shows.

None of these things are cures, but I thought I'd share what is working and what I'm trying. If anyone tells you to go on a particular regimen to get 'cured'- run! There are lots of people out there who take advantage of people with pain. They know we would love to return to our normal, healthy selves.

Oh, if you have a place where you could participate in a water exercise class, that would be wonderful. I have felt my best while doing these classes. The water allows you to stretch and exercise your muscles while not causing any stress to your body.

Hope I've told you something that helps. Good luck with your specialist; I'm sure he/she will be a big help to you. Just communicate your concerns about taking pain medications and you'll be surprised how well your doctor will work with you. Take care!

Don't know if you still need help but this Thrive 8 Week Experience has helped every Fibromyalgia patient I have ever introduced it to, when they commit to taking the three part regimen first thing in the morning. Its as easy as taking 2 capsules, drink a tasty powder mix in water and putting a DFT patch on your arm ... all in the morning and you are done...reports are, pain is relieved or completely gone many times in the same day, when taking it once a day, and its all natural and nutritious! Sound to good to be true? This time its better than it sounds, because IT WORKS! Here is a short testimony of a lifetime Fibro patient I have personally introduced Thrive to, and she is off her pain meds... Pamela S.: "I am new to the product and as long as I take it every day I do not have fibro pain." Here's a link to the Fan Page where you can see other testimonies: http://www.facebook.com/le-velbrands A link to a site where you can watch a short video on Le-vel: http://www.driven.le-vel.com/ A link where you can register for FREE as a customer with no obligation whats so ever. By registering you can learn more about the products, the company and purchase product if you like. Heres the link to register: Click on #3 to register: http://www.driven.industryshift.com/

I have FMS along w/systemic lupus, hypothryoid, stenosis, etc, etc. I take many different medications- pain meds, muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatories, sleep meds, anti-depressant, etc. Exercise is also an important part. While it hurts to get started, it ends up helping.... Those who say it doesn't exist are the type who say "it's all in your head" "it must be your period" and crap like that. We've all had to deal w/that. Try to find a doctor who understanding and understands the disorder. Make sure all other problems have been ruled out... especially if you were dx'd 17 yrs ago. There are a lot of new meds that are helping a lot of people. Chronic pain has some nasty long term side effects and no doctor should ever dismiss your pain. Take care Nicole

Imagine for a moment your arthritis completely vanishing right now.

If, in a moment, your pain and stiffness melted away. And your joints all of a sudden functioned like a well-oiled machine.

Like a magic wand was waived, you'd be able to jump up from your chair and run around the room like a kid.

And imagine that you'd never have to suffer as much as a pinch of arthritis stiffness or pain ever again.

I know this sounds impossible right now, but bear with me, because sometimes miracles happen.

It was a gift from a woman on the other side of the world. From the kindness of her heart, she took pity on my suffering and taught me how to completely reverse my arthritis.

Today, I want to do the same for you!