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Working and Having Fibromyalgia

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Posted 10/16/2012 12:11 AM (GMT -5)
I am starting a new job in two weeks and I have a lot of lower back pain, even though I take Lyrica at night and Ibuprofen during the day. This is frustrating because I just landed my dream job and am unable to function at work with this pain I have. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to work with Fibromyalgia? It seems to be the reason I can't hold on to a job anymore because I am in pain all the time and my pain meds don't work. I really appreciate the feedback :)
Posted 10/16/2012 3:16 AM (GMT -5)
I used to take Diclofenac years ago, and I stopped because the pill was doing more harm to my stomach. I didn't know that I can get it in gel form so I'll search for Voltaren gel at the pharmacy, and I'll ask my doc for the flector patch as well. I don't know if my insurance will cover it, but it's worth a try. Thank you very much, this helps a lot.
Posted 10/16/2012 5:11 AM (GMT -5)
If yours is a sit down job, think about purchasing a back support and do some beneficial stretches before and after work. Also get up and walk as often as you can.

If yours is a stand up job make sure you have comfortable, supportive shoes and also do the before and after work stretches.

My knowledgeble chiropractor has helped.

Good luck to you.

Post Edited (almost medfree) : 10/16/2012 6:22:44 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 10/16/2012 5:59 AM (GMT -5)
Lidoderm patches help too. I believe you can wear them for 12 hours. Check into it.

I worked a few years back and didn't think I would be able to do it, but I did. I am thinking about going back to work for the holidays to earn extra money. I will let you all know how that one goes. I can't do the winters very well. But you would be surprised what you can actually do when you give it a go.

Keep us posted on how things go. I wish you well.

Hugs, Karen
Posted 10/16/2012 8:12 AM (GMT -5)
I work at a professional job.

To-do lists.
Organization helps
Keep a well-ordered date book
Don't let yourself sit still for too much computer work
SLEEP is necessary
Don't give into the sugar fix-me-up in the late afternoon
Let yourself have short brain breaks
NO work goes home

Luckily I can move around a good bit, and have a diverse job description.

Interestingly, my pain is less when I am working. Well, for the most part. The usual warnings of proper eating, sleeping, hydration, exercise all still apply. However, when I am working, that is what I need to be doing. I do not have as much socialization time as I might have, and I certainly don't have as clean a house, car, etc.
Posted 10/16/2012 10:07 AM (GMT -5)
Megs38, Hi. I work full time. I was struggling for a while but I have a handle on it now. What has helped me the most is earthing. I spend my lunch hour outside. I go to the park around the corner from my office. I just sit at a picnic table with my feet on the grass. It is relaxing and invigorating all at the same time. I listen to relaxing music and just enjoy being outside. I have less pain since I have started doing this. My doctor actually turned me onto earthing. I didn't think it would help and was hesitant to try it, but honestly I now addicted. I have to spend my lunch hour at the park. My pain has been reduced and I no longer have trouble sleeping. And getting a good night sleep has really helped me because it is much easier for me to get up and get going in the morning. Good luck with your new job.
Posted 10/16/2012 6:09 PM (GMT -5)
Vbway, I've never heard of this! But what a great idea....especially the feet in the grass part.

Yes, good luck, Megs. Welcome, btw. I don't think we've met. Has anyone directed you to "Fibro 101," 1st thread on the list? It's a good one.

I am a substitute teacher, and trying to do it more than I have in quite a while, because we need the money. I have a lot of leeway as far as sitting/walking around. This can really help, as Myself said. My problem is that I forget to sit down ENOUGH.

I also agree on the importance of sleep...not that I've achieved it. I hate going to bed, always have (and getting up!)

Debbie
Posted 10/16/2012 6:19 PM (GMT -5)
Thanks for all the great suggestions everyone :) I especially like the various patches and the earthing idea. Earthing sounds doable since my office bldg is right by a grassy knoll where I can go for my lunch.

Hi Acheybody :) this forum is awesome! I've read some of Fibro 101, and found the spoon theory a great tool.
Posted 10/16/2012 9:33 PM (GMT -5)
I'm not sure if you are in the type of office building that has cubes? My work does and my doctor wrote me an rx for a sit/stand desk. The desk lifts up on hydraulics so whichever is more comfortable at the time, sitting or standing and be done and I can still work on my computer. I have to say, a lot of my office mates are really jealous of my desk. :)

Other than that...getting up and moving frequently is better than sitting for long periods of time. I keep my two breaks and lunch pretty evenly scattered through my day so I'm getting away from my desk at least once every two hours or so. Plus as everyone else said, taking good care of yourself is important.
Posted 10/23/2012 7:09 AM (GMT -5)
Hi Namian,

How do you handle work and kids? I've recently (4 months now) been told to take full responsibility of my 5 year old. My partner decided that she's out of the relationship. Things were working fine while I was in between job. Then I got a job full time in the CBD (about 30 KM or 18 miles away from home, 1 hour commute each day). Things pretty much fell apart from there on. My pain got worse, energy level went down as well. The juggling and not having enough time just drive me to the ground... sadly I had to leave work because it was all too much... any suggestions?
Posted 10/23/2012 9:39 AM (GMT -5)
Fibro$ux,

Welcome. Sorry to hear about all your troubles. You've had way too much heaped on you at once!

You might want to start a new thread of your own, with a title that says you're a newbie - you'd get more responses that way. Also, check out "Fibro 101," 1st thread on the list. All kinds of helpful info there.

Debbie
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