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Fibromyalgia Exercise Rehabilitation

Graded aerobic, resistance, and aquatic exercise programs as first-line non-pharmacological treatment for fibromyalgia syndrome - reducing pain, fatigue, and improving function and quality of life.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Fibromyalgia Exercise Rehabilitation?

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic widespread pain syndrome with characteristic features of central sensitization, fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction (fibro-fog), and somatic symptoms. Prevalence: 2-4% (women 6:1). Pathophysiology: central sensitization, descending pain inhibition deficiency, neuroinflammation, autonomic dysregulation, HPA axis dysfunction. Diagnosis: ACR 2016 criteria - widespread pain index (WPI ≥7) + symptom severity scale (SSS ≥5).

Exercise effects in FMS: 1) Pain modulation - endogenous opioid and endorphin release, BDNF increase; 2) Sleep quality - SWS increase; 3) Mood - depression-anxiety reduction; 4) Aerobic capacity - VO2max increase; 5) Muscle strength and endurance; 6) Self-efficacy and pain self-management. EULAR 2016 'strong recommendation' for exercise.

Exercise prescription (FITT principle): F (frequency) 3-5 times/week, I (intensity) low-moderate (40-60% HRmax), T (time) 20-60 minutes (start with 5-10), T (type) aerobic + resistance + flexibility. Recommended modalities: 1) Aerobic - walking, swimming, biking, elliptical; 2) Aquatic therapy - water resistance + buoyancy effect, ideal for FMS; 3) Resistance - low-load (40-60% 1RM), 8-12 reps, progressive; 4) Flexibility - yoga, tai chi, stretching; 5) Mind-body - meditation, mindfulness. 'Start low, go slow' rule - post-exertional symptom exacerbation prevention. 12-week minimum program.

Symptoms

Chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain
Severe fatigue and post-exertional malaise
Sleep disturbance and unrefreshing sleep
Cognitive dysfunction (fibro-fog)
Multiple tender points
Depression and anxiety

Risk Factors

Female gender (6:1)
Family history (genetic)
Trauma and PTSD
Other chronic pain conditions (RA, OA)
Sleep disorders
Sedentary lifestyle

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Chronic widespread pain (>3 months)
  • Failed pharmacotherapy
  • Sedentary lifestyle and deconditioning
  • Pre-rehabilitation evaluation
  • Multidisciplinary program planning
  • Return-to-work evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
Aerobic exercise (walking, swimming, biking)
02
Aquatic therapy (water-based, ideal)
03
Resistance training (low-load, progressive)
04
Flexibility (yoga, tai chi, stretching)
05
Mind-body (meditation, mindfulness)
06
FITT prescription (start low, go slow)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.