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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Dublin, IE

I avoid taking a bath at all costs as from start to finish it hurts all over and after wards I'm sore for hours, if not days. Is this just me?

January 4, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members connected over the shared struggle of bathing with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis, with many experiencing... Read more

Members connected over the shared struggle of bathing with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis, with many experiencing increased soreness and fatigue that can last hours or even days after bathing despite its popularity as a pain relief method. Several members shared practical alternatives and insights, including taking warm showers instead of baths to avoid the strain of getting in and out of the tub, using heating pads or heat blankets that can be moved as needed, trying non-toxic soaps and body products to reduce flare-ups, and recognizing that some people with fibromyalgia actually tolerate cold better than heat. A recurring theme was the exhausting cost-benefit analysis of whether temporary relief is worth the extreme fatigue and increased pain that follows, with members validating each other's experiences and emphasizing that what works for one person may not work for another.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Many doctors recommend soaking in a bath. I don't like baths either so I just stand under the shower. You also could be getting pain from the body washes and shampoo's you use. Try using non toxic ones and see if that helps. I was getting pain flare ups depending on which brand of soap I used until I found some non toxic ones online.

January 6, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

No, it is not just you. I took a course recently through the Arthritis Society and they suggest having showers instead of baths. Warm water helps loosen up stiff muscles but getting in and out of the tub can be a lot of strain on your body. For some it is counter productive. I was relieved to hear this because everyone seems to swear by Epsom salt baths and they don't work for me.

January 5, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I read something on Pinterest,it said to use green tea bags.it suppose to help you relax.im going to give it a try.let you know what happens.

January 5, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I used to love taking baths, but I've done them less and less often over the last few years because of similar experiences. I'm in the small percentage of fibro sufferers who does not tolerate heat and prefers cold. Even a hot shower will sometimes cause a flare up. Sometimes I feel like I'm weighing things on a scale - the heat helps loosen my muscles but afterwards I might be in worse pain for a while.

December 23, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Again, thanks for the answers. Much appreciated. Hugs

January 5, 2016

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