Women with fibromyalgia experience chronic pain and muscle aches, fatigue, stiffness, and emotional distress that can turn even the most common activities into daily challenges. Attempting a workout may seem inconceivable, but most experts on fibromyalgia agree that when approached carefully, exercise can be very beneficial.

Lancaster General’s Fibromyalgia Program includes exercise and physical therapy for treatment of symptoms. Juliann Heisler, RN, Nurse Manager for Pain Management explains that “encouraging physical activity is the best way to help women build strength and endurance.” The key with fibromyalgia is to choose low-intensity workouts and to build slowly.

Swimming in a warm pool is an excellent option and has been shown to reduce pain, anxiety and depression. Another good choice is walking, which enhances cardiovascular health and endurance. Exercises that improve strength and flexibility, such as yoga, tai chi and pilates may also help, but should be done cautiously, with gentle movements.

“With exercise, women learn to manage their pain, rather than be controlled by it,” Juliann continues. “They are able to do more with less fatigue, improving their lives all around.”

Information related to this topic:

• Lancaster General Fibromyalgia Program
• Health Library: Fibromyalgia 
• Generally Speaking: Joint Program
• Lancaster General Pain Management

 

 

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