Two recent studies suggest that strength training, exercise, and other
non-pharmaceutical approaches may be helpful in easing the chronic pain and
other symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM). FM sufferers experience widespread muscle
and joint pain that comes and goes, tiredness and depression, and trouble
sleeping. Oftentimes the first onset of FM follows a flu-like illness, physical
trauma, stress, or chronic sleep problems. Because conventional drug therapies
appear to provide only short-term relief, scientists continue to explore other
approaches to dealing with FM.
A recent study suggests that strength training may be helpful in coping with
depression associated with FM as well as in improving pain. In this study, FM
patients engaged in a 17-week strength-training program that included squats,
knee and trunk extension/flexion exercises, and bench presses. The women who had
followed the strength-training program showed immediate improvements in mood,
neck pain, fatigue, and overall daily physical function, compared with the women
who did not participate in the strength-training program. These results suggest
that strength training may be a beneficial addition to any treatment program for
FM.
According to a recent review of research on mind/body approaches to FM (such
as relaxation techniques, hypnosis, stress management, biofeedback, and
cognitive-behavioral training), these have little or no effect on the actual
pain and other symptoms of FM. The researchers did find, however, that mind/body
approaches may help people cope with the symptoms of FM, especially when the
techniques are used in the early stages of FM. And, when combined with
high-intensity exercise, mind/body approaches may aid in reducing pain and
improving general physical function.
While there is no single cure for FM, an integrated approach incorporating a
range of therapies to address the various symptoms of FM may be the best way of
dealing with this difficult condition. It is important that you work with your
doctor or healthcare provider to discuss various treatment options and develop
an integrated approach that will best meet your needs.
