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Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes widespread pain and stiffness in the muscles, tendons and ligaments, along with fatigue and sleep disturbance. Headaches, abdominal pain and irregularity are also common. Current treatment options include medications, education, exercise programs and relaxation.
Brooks offers a unique fibromyalgia workshop that focuses on education to help manage the changes that this disease brings. The program meets on Tuesdays from 4-6 pm for 4 weeks, and the classes are taught by expert clinicians who specialize in treating patients with chronic pain.
Week One
You will learn the principles that have helped thousands of patients with chronic pain regain mobility. Participants will receive a packet of specific stretches recommended for people with fibromyalgia.
4:00 – 4:30 Stretching Basics
4:30 – 5:00 Experiencing Relaxation
5:00 – 6:00 Goals and Principals of Managing Fibromyalgia
Week Two
When suffering from fibromyalgia, many people experience difficulty sleeping. Sleeping is your body’s self-recovery activity that prepares you for the next day. Get the most out of your sleep with the best positions, strategies and habits.
4:00 – 4:30 Positions for Successful Sleep
4:30 – 5:00 Experiencing Relaxation
5:00 – 6:00 Maximize Your Sleep
Week Three
Can’t do what you used to do? Do you “pay” for days after one afternoon of activity? You will be presented strategies and guidelines for pacing so you can accomplish what you want with less pain. Also, you will learn how biofeedback and relaxation therapy play a significant role in controlling the effects of stress and pain.
4:00 – 4:30 The Art of Pacing
4:30 – 5:00 Experiencing Relaxation
5:00 – 6:00 Controlling the Effects of Stress and Pain
Week Four
Avoiding activities that lead to pain is common sense, to a degree. But when avoiding activity robs you of the important things, fibromyalgia is in control of you. Learn how to take back control. You will learn that foods also have an impact on how you feel and function. Learn which foods and food products might have significant consequences for you.
4:00 – 4:30 Nutrition and Pain
4:30 – 5:00 Experiencing Relaxation
5:00 – 6:00 Fear and Avoidance Affect Chronic Pain
All classes will be held at the Brooks Outpatient Health Care Plaza location. To register, please call (904) 858-7221.