Does Heat Help Fibromyalgia?

Heat, especially moist heat, may relieve soreness and stiffness from fibromyalgia by boosting blood flow to the places where you hurt. Apply a warm, moist washcloth to the painful area or try taking a shower or soaking in a bath. You also can reduce the deep muscle pain of fibromyalgia with a cold pack.

Does heat make fibromyalgia worse?

The National Fibromyalgia Association supports this link between weather and fibromyalgia-related pain. Overall, many people with fibromyalgia have “temperature sensitivity” or a worsening of their symptoms (such as muscle pain or fatigue) with any extreme temperature fluctuations, whether it's hot or cold.

What helps fibromyalgia flare ups?

Regular gentle exercise is one of the most effective ways that fibromyalgia flare ups can be avoided or diminished and pain managed. Exercise in moderation may increase pain at first but may help prevent or improve pain over time and build up endurance, muscle strength, avoidance of depression, and boost moods.