One of the most confusing aspects of Fibro is that often the
person suffering does not know whether to rest more or to move more. These two
ideas seem to be diametrically opposed. The truth is, they are both right. And
that’s the confusing part.
There is a new and growing trend in treatment called DBT —
Dialectical Behavior Therapy. The dialectic addresses two states of mind that
seem to be opposites, but actually coexist: the need to accept wherever we are
in the moment and the need to change. For the ideal therapeutic result, both
the therapist and the patient must understand that they are both true, and
operative in the moment. For Fibro patients, they are often caught between the body’s
desire to stay still — as interpreted through the amount of pain being
perceived, and the knowledge that motion may relieve pain.
It is no secret that exercise helps Fibro, and in fact helps
all kinds of chronic pain and illness. The problem with the Fibro sufferer is
that they are thinking two things at once:
Mind says, “Go to the pool! Take a walk! You’ll feel so much
better!”
Body says, “Accept me where I am! Listen, I’m telling you to
rest!”
This is often followed by, “If you go for that walk/swim/yoga
class you’ll pay a price. You’ll feel worse later. You’ll over do it. And the
pain will be worse tomorrow.”
Pain is then multiplied by the added layer of fear, and
motion no longer seems possible.
The therapeutic goal is to recognize that these ideas can
and do exist together in the mind, and that does not mean you stay stuck. The
secret to successful treatment is to find the balance, and not allow fear to
dominate the internal conversation.
Acknowledge pain. Move gently. Allow for healing as a
possibility. Be a warrior.
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