Simple Start Leads to Optimistic Outlook
Thursday, July 5, 2007
By: Renee Kurkin

Patient Story

Fibromyalgia began its insidious affects on my life about four years ago. It came on quietly, but within a year I was walking with a cane and begging my doctor for help. No medications worked and I gave in to taking narcotics, frustrated with the constant, severe pain. When the narcotics didn’t work, and my doctor literally told me, “There’s nothing else I can do for you,” I decided to take matters into my own hands.
 
I began with diet changes through the help of a nutritionist. This helped immensely with the pain and fatigue, but I soon realized I had lost so much physical strength.
 
I started simply with a 3-foot-wide trampoline, gently bouncing in front of the television. I then started walking, gradually working up to 15 minutes each day. I then added Pilates to my regimen. These are perfect for FM patients, as you use your body’s own resistance.
 
I have gained so much of my strength and energy back that I can now enjoy simple pleasures again, like walking around a mall or taking a bike ride. These exercises keep me strong, energized, and most importantly, positive about a now happy and healthy future.