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The Ways Technology Is Aiding Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Those living with invisible illnesses can often find themselves in difficult situations. Living with an invisible illness such as Fibromyalgia can create a lot of stress and pressure. Thankfully a number of technologies have been developed that can help.

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition which causes pain of differing levels all over the body. Along with widespread pain, Fibromyalgia sufferers also experience other symptoms, including an increased sensitivity to pain, muscle stiffness, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and problems with memory, concentration, and mental processes. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, and although there is currently no known cure, there are a number of ways in which the condition can be managed. Technology can help with many of these management methods.

Magnetic Stimulation Technology

Recent studies have shown that magnetic stimulation technology has shown some use in treating sufferers of Fibromyalgia due to its ability to reach the deeper brain regions which are affected by the condition. Receptive transcranial magnetic stimulation (RTMS) uses a magnetic coil in order to alter brain activity levels and has been found to improve the symptoms of a wide variety of diseases and conditions. While the methods used so far in experimental studies have been unsuccessful, researchers are hopeful that this technology will become an effective way of successfully treating Fibromyalgia.

Cloud Healthcare Technology

Patients with Fibromyalgia have been able to use cloud computing software in order to access their prescriptions and other information about their medical records. Thanks to new technology, many hospitals and other health care companies have been using cloud computing software and patient record management systems which are cloud based, providing a number of advantages for both medical staff and patients, not to mention cost savings.

With cloud computing, patients are able to access their information on the go through the use of a smartphone or tablet application, and can gain access to prescriptions uploaded by their doctor even without an appointment. This and other features of this technology make sure that Fibromyalgia sufferers don’t need to go without medicine if they can’t get a doctor’s appointment.

Health Trackers

Health tracking software is an upcoming technology that is proving extremely useful to both medical staff and patients. Software is often used in the form of a wearable tech item such as a watch or wristband, although in some cases it is a smartphone app. This software tracks users’ vital health signs, and can relay them to doctors and other medical health professionals through the use of cloud computing. Having a record of your health can also help to track patterns and allow you to recognize when symptoms are more likely to peak or drop.

Mobile Applications

Lifestyle changes such as exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques are some of the most crucial factors when it comes to effectively treating Fibromyalgia. Without technology, it would be difficult for Fibromyalgia sufferers to effectively utilize these options on difficult days, especially when they need to attend a class or appointment. However, there are a number of recommended applications for smartphones and tablets which can be used at home for both exercise, relaxation, and meditation that can significantly help Fibromyalgia sufferers without the need to leave their home.

The Internet and Online Communication

Many Fibromyalgia sufferers find it helpful if they speak to others who go through the same kind of issues and understand the pain and struggle of living day-to-day with the condition. However, it can often be difficult for patients to get to physical support groups, and often these groups don’t meet often enough. However, with the internet, it’s easy for Fibromyalgia sufferers to find others online with whom they can speak to and share support.

There are also a number of online support groups both official and unofficial that will help Fibromyalgia sufferers by giving them the opportunity to speak to others. Talking therapies can also be very beneficial to Fibromyalgia sufferers, with many undergoing treatments such as psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy to help them best deal with the symptoms of the disease and the psychological effects. Thanks to the internet, it’s possible to contact psychologists online who are able to conduct Skype appointments and other meetings over the internet with patients.

Do you suffer from Fibromyalgia? How has technology been of use to you? We’d love to hear from you – let us know in the comments below.