Only thing that works for me is to get up and actually do it. I take 240mg of morphine plus other meds per day and the only way I can get my exercise done is if I force myself to do it. I know it's hard and I know I'll hurt but I get more energy from it than laying around. I hope this helps. I don't mean to sound mean but the only way to get it done is to do it;-)

Kim, I so know how you feel. I have fibro and energy level is hard. I was doing a lot worse though. My doctor changed and the new one seems to know more about treating fibro. She changed my meds and got me off the pain patch I was on. The pain patch was what was making me so tired. I am now taking cymbalta and tramadol, ibuprofen 800...... I'm trying to remember what else lOL They did cut me back and I feel better dealing with some pain than being a zombie. I do have a nerve stimulator implated and that helps with pain but doesn't involve medication. Just wish I didn't have to have another surgery soon because the battery is running out.

Anyway, I actually came here looking for help on this but what I do is use a stationary bike - it is recumbent and I just go as long as I can and I can't go very fast. I usually end up going between 10 to 15 minutes. I also press air with my arms LOL it is heavy air. I an only get to about 30. That is the best I can do. Good luck.

I'm sorry you're going through so much when you're trying so hard! I think it's terrific that you haven't given up and are looking for answers to get yourself to a better place. I do understand because I have Fibro and that alone makes me so tired and hurting so bad some days that I can barely get out of bed, let alone do anything resembling exercise. And I take the minimum pain meds I can get by on too otherwise I get zoned out and/or want to just sit. That's no life.

So, a few suggestions: consider acupuncture, Reiki or other alternative healing method which works with your body's energy field, enlivens you and supports your well being. These things don't work overnight but with dedication will make a big difference. I personally learned and use Reiki everyday and don't know how I'd live without it. Besides promoting healing and reducing your pain levels, these methods will also relax you and that will also reduce your pain as stress and tension increase it. Another thing: learn to meditate. I do Transcendental Meditation every day and it's amazing to me how much it energizes and renews me. I don't know if other forms of meditation work as well but I'm sure any kind is better than none. Also, are you counting the every day things you do that also burn calories - walking, cooking, housework, etc? No matter how slowly you move these things they add up. Have you considered isometric exercise? This is a form of exercise that uses one part of the body to give resistance to another part and builds strength. It doesn't involve a lot of movement and yet is very effective. I'm sure you can find info online about it or find someone who can show you how to do it. I'll bet part of your fatigue comes from being deconditioned generally. One last thing: fatigue can be a symptom of depression. I know because I've had my struggles with depression and know how it can make you feel heavy and lethargic and disabled. And I don't believe it works to just throw meds at it. Real recovery from depression comes from psychotherapy where you deal with the underlying reasons for depression and resolve them.

Anyway, this is my 2 cents worth. I hope it helps. Hang in there, dear sister! I'll say a prayer for you because anyone working as hard as you are deserves a real break.

:happy:

I use most of the same meds you have listed and I too have fibro along with some other chronic pain issues. I know how it feels to have no energy to get started. I am on and off with the exercise but I know if I stop moving I won't get started again. I am currently laid up with my foot but plan to start working out again in a few weeks. I am doing the same thing with my diet in the hopes that it will help with the pain level. Like one of the other posters said the only real secret is to just force yourself to get up and do it. Start really slowly so you don't injure yourself in anyway. Add a little at a time and see how that goes. I would suggest maybe 10 minutes the first time. 10 minutes should be managable and then slowly work up from there. Don't give up. We are all in the same boat and can hopefuly encourage each other. I am sending you a friend request.

I don't have any real advice for ya, but I can commiserate and say that I have fibro along with a few other issues and am also taking the Zanaflex and Klonapin with the rest of my grab-bag... and those two can definitely take it out of you. I usually take the Zanaflex only at night before bed, but if I'm having a bad day and need to take it as needed, then I have no choice but to take a nap or fall asleep at whatever I happen to be doing.

All I can say is don't get discouraged in the long run if you miss a day or two (or more). I know firsthand that it can be hard to get back into the groove, but just remind yourself that it's worth it in the long run and you should do what you can, even if it's just a tiny amount for now. 5 reps of whatever is better than none, after all.