Barb Cacia, part of the new Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Care Center within Lattimore Physical Therapy says that if you have fibromyalgia, deep, restorative sleep can decrease pain.

Cacia, who counsels clients about sleep, as well as exercise, nutrition, stress management and relaxation says deep sleep makes neurotransmitters such as serotonin more efficient and regulates pain intensity.

Cacia suggests copying children’s sleep routine. Take a bath about one hour before bedtime. Have a light carbohydrate snack, read something boring, keep the lights low and limit use of telephone, computer and TV so your mind has a chance to wind down.

“Practice. Be patient and gentle with yourself,” says Cacia. “Sleep is a habit and learning a new habit will take time, but reducing your pain is a great benefit to all this hard work.” Also talk to your doctor. Medications that boost the level of serotonin help many people. Source

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