Exercise Therapy for Fibromyalgia

Abstract

Fibromyalgia syndrome, a chronic condition typically characterized by widespread pain, nonrestorative sleep, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and other somatic symptoms, negatively impacts physical and emotional function and reduces quality of life. Exercise is commonly recommended in the management of people with fibromyalgia, and interest in examining exercise benefits for those with the syndrome has grown substantially over the past 25 years. Research supports aerobic and strength training to improve physical fitness and function, reduce fibromyalgia symptoms, and improve quality of life. However, other forms of exercise (e.g., tai chi, yoga, Nordic walking, vibration techniques) and lifestyle physical activity also have been investigated to determine their effects. This paper highlights findings from recent randomized controlled trials and reviews of exercise for people with fibromyalgia, and includes information regarding factors that influence response and adherence to exercise to assist clinicians with exercise and physical activity prescription decision-making to optimize health and well-being.

Effects of exercise on physical limitations and fatigue in rheumatic diseases

“…It has been shown that regular exercise, in particular aerobic, improves pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance in patients with FM. Physical exercise is one of the most widely recognized and beneficial forms of non-pharmacological therapy [16] , effective in reducing pain and depression and producing positive effects on physical function, fitness, and global health [17] , particularly in patients affected by rheumatic disease [18] . No one particular form of exercise is preferred and all types may be considered.…”

A Framework for Fibromyalgia Management for Primary Care Providers

“…15,17,29,[37][38][39][40][41] Furthermore, other nonpharmacological approaches, such as yoga, massage, and other types of physical therapy, may also be considered, 42 although more study is needed to assess their efficacy in fibromyalgia. An integrated approach is key, and the importance of self-management should be highlighted.…”

The Effects and Clinical Implementations of Tai Chi Exercise

“…Aerobik egzersizlerin, FMS'de, ağrı, depresyon ve yorgunluğu azalttığı, yaşam kalitesini arttırdığı bilinmektedir (31). Güçlendirme ve fleksibilite antrenmanlarının eklenmesiyle oluşturulacak kombine bir egzersiz programının kazanımları ise daha fazladır (31,32). Bu sendromda, egzersiz için dar bir terapötik pencere bulunmaktadır.…”