In addition to medications, there are medical treatments and CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) therapies that have proven effective for some people with fibromyalgia.
Researchers are also finding promise in two new experimental treatments, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and vagus nerve stimulation. In TMS, an electromagnetic coil transmits an electrical current through the scalp to the brain’s cortex, decreasing depression and reducing pain. Vagus nerve stimulation administers small repeated pulses of electrical energy via a device similar to a pacemaker. The current is passed to the vagus nerve, which controls body functions that are not voluntarily controlled, like heart rate.
As you can see, there are many options available to help you manage your pain. Where will you start? See the next page for some ideas for possible action steps.