Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that affects the muscles and joints. The disorder also may cause headaches, disrupt sleep, and cause muscle stiffness and general body aches, report doctors at the American Academy of Family Physicians. Fibromyalgia is not life threatening, but is very uncomfortable and can disrupt everyday activities. Pain medication and exercise are two modes of treating fibromyalgia.
Benefits
Pain relief is one of the most important reasons that people with fibromyalgia should exercise. Exercise loosens up the joints that then become sensitized to the exertion and muscle pain created by exercise. In time, with consistent exercise such as walking, cycling and swimming, movements become easier and the pain is lessened. For some, exercise can alleviate the pain of fibromyalgia completely.
Function
Stress can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms and increase pain levels. Exercise reduces stress by releasing endorphins that cause patients to feel better. Exercises meant to reduce stress, such as yoga or tai chi, can help to calm patients and teach them how to focus attention on other things besides their pain. Yoga also helps to reduce the anxiety associated with fibromyalgia.
Significance
Exercise increases flexibility and increased blood flow, significant factors in alleviating joint pain. The body operates better as a whole when circulation is at its peak. Blood flow to the organs and glands also increases with exercise, allowing them to produce pain killing hormones and nutrients properly. Exercise is a significant treatment for fibromyalgia because it increases the production of adrenalin and serotonin, natural pain inhibitors.
Types
Various exercises help fibromyalgia sufferers in different ways. While yoga can help relieve stress and aerobic activity increases adrenalin, weight training can help strengthen muscles that support the stiff joints. Strong muscles relieve pressure on weak joints. Ligaments and muscles that are stronger are less susceptible to pain. Aerobic exercise also promotes weight loss. Excess weight increases the pressure on weak joints and produces additional pain. Vigorous exercise provides a natural fatigue that promotes better sleep too.
Prevention/Solution
Regular exercise reduces the risk that fibromyalgia sufferers will incur other disorders that would exacerbate their condition. Exercise can help to prevent high blood pressure and heart disease. Routine exercise programs, coupled with a healthy diet, help to reduce the risk for diabetes, high cholesterol and stroke.
