Accompanying all poorly understood chronic pain conditions is a considerable amount of anxiety. Thinking catastrophically about what might happen to you is normal. Knowledge is power and action produces results.

Learn all you can about your muscles and what you can do to help yourself. Then take action. Learn to treat your own muscles. It can be empowering. “Act as if” you were well. Keep moving, doing everything you can do physically. Your body will reward you with an automatic “wellness response.” 

Learn to reduce stress and think positively. There are many avenues you can follow. Certain kinds of exercise like walking and Pilates, breathing techniques, creative visualization, biofeedback, herbal combinations, Yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and courses like MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction) can all be helpful. Find what works for you and get to work so that the stress hormones don’t take over.