Working with Fibromyalgia

• Provide written job instructions when possible
• Prioritize job assignments & provide more structure
• Allow flexible work hours & allow a self-pace workload
• Allow periodic rest periods to reorient
• Provide memory aids, such as schedulers or organizers
• Minimize distractions
• Reduce job stress

Fine Motor Impairment:

• Implement ergonomic workstation design
• Provide alternative computer access
• Provide alternative telephone access
• Provide arm supports
• Provide writing & grip aids
• Provide a page turner & a book holder
• Provide a note taker

Gross Motor Impairment:

• Modify the work-site to make it accessible
• Provide parking close to the work-site
• Provide an accessible entrance
• Install automatic door openers
• Move workstation close to other work areas, office equipment, & break rooms

Temperature Sensitivity:

• Modify work-site temperature & maintain the ventilation system
• Modify dress code
• Use fan/air-conditioner or heater at the workstation & redirect vents
• Allow flexible scheduling & work from home during extremely hot or cold weather
• Provide an office with separate temperature control

Skin Sensitivity:

• Avoid infectious agents & chemicals
• Provide protective clothing

• Reduce or eliminate physical exertion & workplace stress
• Schedule periodic rest breaks away from the workstation
• Allow a flexible work schedule & flexible use of leave time
• Allow work from home
• Implement ergonomic workstation design

Depression & Anxiety:

• Reduce distractions in work environment
• Provide to-do lists & written instructions
• Remind employee of important deadlines & meetings
• Allow time off for counseling
• Provide clear expectations of responsibilities & consequences
• Provide sensitivity training to co-workers
• Allow breaks to use stress management techniques
• Develop strategies to deal with work problems before they arise
• Allow telephone calls during work hours to doctors & others for support
• Provide information on counseling & employee assistance programs

Sleep Disorder:

• Allow flexible work hours & frequent breaks
• Allow work from home

Migraine Headaches:

• Provide task lighting
• Eliminate fluorescent lighting
• Use computer monitor glare guards
• Reduce noise with sound absorbent baffles/partitions, environmental sound machines, & headsets
• Provide alternate work space to reduce visual & auditory distractions
• Implement a “fragrance-free” workplace policy
• Provide air purification devices
• Allow flexible work hours & work from home
• Allow periodic rest breaks