Fibromylagia is a form of rheumatism that affects soft tissue and not the joints. Individuals who suffer from the Fibromyalgia syndrome or FMS encounter chronic pain in different points of the body such as the upper back, neck, lower back and more. Using a Fibromyalgia service dog can help alleviate that pain in many ways.

Research and studies show that individuals who suffer from chronic pain and have service dogs are able to better cope with the symptoms over those who don’t have such dogs do. Even people with heart ailments who have dogs or pets are less likely to need more medical attention after being discharged from the hospital, studies say.

Perhaps the reason why having a service dog helps in treating the symptoms of FMS is because having a warm, loyal and furry friend helps one to cope with the pain that comes with the affliction. This is because the patient may feel more secure and content with the presence of a dog and it gives them something else to focus on other than their pain.

In some cases, a dog or pet can prove to be the motivation a person with FMS needs to get out of bed in the morning despite feeling like they’d much rather stay under the covers.

Studies have also shown that owning pets, particularly trained dogs can help alleviate stress. This fact is especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from FMS because stress needs to be avoided at all times to avoid occurrence or the worsening of symptoms. This is why many FMS treatments include stress alleviation through drugs or natural alternative remedies.

A lot of individuals with FMS may shy away from the prospect of having a dog because they may think that owning a pet may be too much to manage especially when FMS symptoms set it. However, a properly trained dog can really help if mobility is impaired. They can do activities like switching on and off lights, help with the laundry, opening doors and retrieving items.

Although you will need to be able to meet the needs of you dog too. They have to be fed and watered, given room to run and exercise and you should ensure that nothing in your house or garden could cause them harm.

If you are interested in getting a service dog to help you then you will need to be legally registered as having a disability as service dogs are specifically trained to help with particular conditions. You’ll need to complete forms and submit them to the organization of your choice. It’s important to note that this process can be length and expensive, so check to see if you are entitled to any compensation

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