A virtual wellness program offered by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport and provided to you through your employer.

Exercise & Fibromyalgia

 What is Fibromyalgia?  

Fibromyalgia is an increasingly recognized arthritis-related condition characterized by widespread aches, pain and stiffness, soft tissue tenderness, general fatigue and sleep disturbances. The most common sites of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle and hands, but any body part can be involved. Fibromyalgia patients often experience a range of symptoms of varying intensities that come and go over time. While the underlying cause of fibromyalgia still remains a mystery, new research findings continue to bring us closer to understanding the basic mechanisms of fibromyalgia. It is estimated that approximately 3-6% of the U.S. population has fibromyalgia. Although a higher percentage of women of all ages and races are affected, it does strike men and children.

Why Exercise?

It is often assumed that fibromyalgia and exercise don't go together because of the chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia syndrome. In truth, however, regular exercise can help to relieve pain, strengthen connective tissue and increase flexibility and blood flow. The human body is designed with muscles and joints to perform an array of activities. With the pain of fibromyalgia, exercise and many daily activities are slowed down or stopped completely. Muscles that are not regularly worked are more prone to trauma and dysfunction.  However, exercise in many different forms, whether stretching, weight resistance, walking, swimming, cycling, yoga and others are known to be effective components for reversing fibromyalgia.

Why Water?

If you do have fibromyalgia, water exercises can provide several benefits. First of all, the buoyancy takes the weight off of your joints, and helps you to be able to move easier and in ways that maybe you usually can’t.  It also allows you to get a cardiovascular workout without the risk of jarring joints or falling. In addition, the hydrostatic pressure of water reduces swelling and inflammation in joints, making workouts easier and less painful.

Whatever exercise you choose, remember to use stretching exercises to warm up prior to beginning that day's activity, and listen to your body to determine if you are exercising at the right level. Some muscle soreness is normal when you're starting to exercise, but sharp pain may be a sign that you have overworked your muscles. Keep exercising consistently and you will find that the pain following an exercise workout will lessen, as will your fibromyalgia symptoms. In addition, it’s important to consult a doctor before beginning an exercise program.

View Animated Exercise Pictures using many different pieces of equipment!