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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 💭
Fife, Scotland

I was on a plane 2 days ago and I had the worst spasms throughout the flight. They were especially bad and many close together during the descent. I have been getting more than usual since then. Has anyone else had this? Is this normal? What causes this?

May 30, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with fibromyalgia flare-ups during flights, with many describing painful spasms triggered by airplane... Read more

Members shared their experiences with fibromyalgia flare-ups during flights, with many describing painful spasms triggered by airplane vibrations, air pressure changes, and the physical stress of travel itself. Several members offered practical strategies that have helped them, including taking mild sedatives or muscle relaxants before flying, wearing compression socks to improve circulation, requesting wheelchair assistance at airports to conserve energy, and using medications like Lyrica or amitriptyline to manage ongoing spasms. A recurring theme was the unpredictability of how fibromyalgia responds to air travel and the importance of checking with a doctor to rule out other serious concerns like blood clots, while also extending compassion to oneself during the difficult adjustment to life with a chronic condition.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes this is a problem for me too, along with a very significant increase in fatigue immediately after flying. I now always ask for the wheelchair assistance at the airport. You can usually make the request in advance when you book your flight. It saves energy that you would be spending walking and makes it much easier when you land if you have spasms or leg pain.

June 1, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

No matter how many times I fly, I'm never sure just how my fibro is going to react. Some flights are easy pieces of cake with no pain... others I spend the whole time unable to rest because I'm so uncomfortable despite taking a sedative. The only thing I would worry about is where the spasms were. It could be a sign of something else if you're not careful. I would definitely talk to your doctor, especially if it happens again on the return flight. It could just be the fibro, but with all the things that can happen healthwise when you fly (ie blood clots, etc), it never hurts to double check with the doctor.

May 30, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

I get them all the time especially in my neck, chest, lower back and legs. I take lyrica (pregablin) and amytriptline to subdue them. I find stress, anxiety and depression make them trigger of more frequently and serverly.

May 30, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Amazon has some great compression socks that don't look like compression socks. I wear them every time. They even have fun patterns on them that make me happy.

June 1, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Also really good compression socks help.

June 1, 2017

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