Physical Therapy for Fibromyalgia: Benefits and Recommended Exercises
Physical therapy may be used alongside other treatments to help reduce fibromyalgia pain and improve mental health.
Chronic pain and fatigue are common symptoms of fibromyalgia. You may also experience sleep, memory, or mood issues as a result of this condition.
There’s no cure yet for fibromyalgia, but doctors may recommend physical therapy in addition to medications and alternative therapies, like massage and acupuncture, to help with your symptoms.
As part of a holistic plan, physical therapy can help you cope with your pain. It may also reduce the frequency and intensity of your symptoms.
This article examines how physical therapy and the right exercise program might help those with fibromyalgia.
How can physical therapy help fibromyalgia?
Physical therapy can offer a variety of benefits for those with fibromyalgia, including:
- decreased pain, fatigue, and stiffness
- increased range of motion
- improved mental health
- reduced need for medications
Research has found that individuals with fibromyalgia may have difficulty with lower aerobic endurance and muscle strength. They are also likely to live a sedentary life because of their pain. This can increase their likelihood of developing other health complications.
With the help of physical therapy, quality of life and productivity can improve.
What types of exercises are recommended for fibromyalgia?
Doctors highly recommend that those with fibromyalgia participate in aerobic and strength training activities. While current research does not offer as much support for flexibility exercises, these exercises may also prove beneficial, especially as part of a warm-up or cool-down routine.
Types of exercise frequently recommended if you have fibromyalgia include:
You can read more about the best exercises for fibromyalgia here.
What’s the best exercise program for fibromyalgia?
If you’ve received a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, a licensed physical therapist can design or tailor a holistic program specifically for you.
To create your personalized exercise program, a physical therapist will consider your overall health and exercise level. They’ll work with you to develop a workout that is sufficiently challenging but also comfortable enough to do several times per week.
Because fibromyalgia symptoms can fluctuate, your physical therapist may need to make frequent adjustments to your program.
Working out consistently is important, but it can be difficult, especially if you have a painful flare.
Your physical therapist may ask questions about the types of activities you enjoy doing to find ways to motivate you. They may also begin slowly and build up the intensity of your workouts over time to help prevent pain and burnout.
In addition to exercises on land, your physical therapist may suggest aquatic therapy. The warmer water in therapy pools can relax muscles, offer joint relief, and improve circulation.
A physical therapy treatment plan for fibromyalgia may also include massage, the use of a TENS machine, or hot/cold packs to prevent and treat your muscle pain.
In addition to an exercise plan, your physical therapist can provide helpful education about pain management. The skills they teach can be useful in coping with your fibromyalgia symptoms.
What’s the best way to find a licensed, competent PT who is familiar with fibromyalgia?
Your doctor may be able to provide a referral to a local physical therapist who has worked with individuals with fibromyalgia in the past.
Another place you may potentially be able to get referrals is through a local fibromyalgia support group.
If you choose to do your own research, you may wish to look online for a local physical therapist who advertises their work with fibromyalgia and has articles or blogs on their website demonstrating their knowledge of the connection between physical therapy and fibromyalgia.
It’s also usually a good idea to check out their reviews.
Where can you find support groups for those living with fibromyalgia?
If you have fibromyalgia, it’s important to have the support of others who understand what you’re going through. Your doctor or local hospital may be able to suggest an in-person support group near you.
You can also get support online through organizations like the Fibromyalgia Care Society of America.
Another place where you can connect with other people with fibromyalgia is in Meta groups. Research indicates Meta (formerly Facebook) groups can be a source of support for those living with fibromyalgia. But remember that these groups may not always encourage evidence-based approaches to fibromyalgia care.
What is Fibromyalgia and How Does It Affect the Body?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It can also lead to sleep issues, memory problems, and mood disturbances, significantly impacting daily life.
How Can Physical Therapy Benefit People with Fibromyalgia?
Physical therapy can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms by improving mobility, reducing pain, enhancing strength, and increasing endurance. Tailored exercises can also help improve sleep and overall quality of life.
What Types of Exercises Are Recommended for Fibromyalgia Patients?
Recommended exercises for fibromyalgia patients include low-impact aerobic activities, stretching, and strengthening exercises. These can help alleviate stress on muscles and joints while improving flexibility and endurance.
Can Aerobic Exercises Help with Fibromyalgia?
Yes, aerobic exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling can improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce pain, and promote better sleep, which are beneficial for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
Is Stretching Important for Managing Fibromyalgia?
Stretching is crucial as it helps maintain flexibility, reduces stiffness, and alleviates muscle tension, which are common issues faced by fibromyalgia patients.
How Often Should Someone with Fibromyalgia Exercise?
It is generally recommended to engage in low to moderate intensity exercises 2 to 3 times a week. However, this can vary based on each individual’s condition and should be adjusted according to how the body responds to the activity.
Can Physical Therapy Help Reduce Fibromyalgia Pain?
Yes, through individualized exercise programs and pain management techniques, physical therapy can significantly help in reducing the chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia.
Should Fibromyalgia Exercises Be Supervised by a Professional?
It’s advisable for fibromyalgia patients to start exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist. This ensures the exercises are done correctly and safely, and the program is tailored to individual needs.
What Precautions Should Be Taken During Exercise for Fibromyalgia?
Start with low-impact activities, listen to your body, and avoid pushing through pain. Gradually increase intensity and duration as tolerated, and always warm up before exercising and cool down afterward.
Are There Any Additional Therapies to Complement Physical Therapy for Fibromyalgia?
In addition to physical therapy, techniques like massage therapy, acupuncture, and relaxation practices such as yoga or meditation can further help manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Takeaway
If you have fibromyalgia, chronic pain can be debilitating. Physical therapy may help reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, and improve your mental well-being. Your doctor may recommend it in combination with medication and alternative therapies.
A physical therapist can help with pain management and develop an individualized exercise plan that includes a mixture of aerobic and strength-building activities. Tai chi, walking, and swimming are some exercises that may be particularly beneficial if you have fibromyalgia.
This is a great article that highlights the importance of physical therapy in managing fibromyalgia symptoms. I appreciate the detailed explanation of how exercise can alleviate pain and improve mobility. The recommended exercises are practical and seem manageable even for beginners. It’s encouraging to know that with consistency, individuals with fibromyalgia can see real improvements in their quality of life. Thanks for sharing this valuable information!
This is a fantastic post! Physical therapy can be incredibly beneficial for those with fibromyalgia, as it helps manage pain and improve flexibility. I appreciate the detailed explanation of the exercises that can be done to aid in symptom relief. It’s great to see a focus on low-impact activities that consider the challenges faced by people with fibromyalgia. Thank you for providing such valuable information!
This is a fantastic post! Physical therapy can be a game-changer for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. The exercises you recommended are spot-on for improving flexibility and reducing pain. It’s great to know there are practical ways to help ease the discomfort and improve daily functioning for those suffering from this condition. Thank you for sharing such valuable information!
This is a great read! Physical therapy can be a game-changer for those with fibromyalgia. It’s amazing how targeted exercises and mobility work can help manage pain and improve quality of life. Thanks for sharing these recommended exercises—definitely planning to incorporate them into my routine!
Great article! Physical therapy can be such a valuable tool for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. I appreciate the detailed explanation of how these exercises can improve flexibility and reduce pain. It’s encouraging to know that there are tailored exercises that can be adapted to each person’s needs. Thanks for sharing this useful information!