Exercise “effective treatment” for fibromyalgia says evidence review
Aerobic exercise and strength training are of great benefit to people with fibromyalgia says a review of the evidence in Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism.
Experts analysed the evidence about the effects of physical exercise in people with fibromyalgia, selecting 37 studies involving nearly 500 people.
Results were extremely positive; the evidence for improvement of pain level and quality of life for people with fibromyalgia who exercise was the strongest.
“A variety of exercises were used as treatment for fibromyalgia symptoms, with positive results,” the experts highlight. “Most of the reviews investigated the effects of aerobic exercise and strength training. No serious adverse events were reported. The largest effects of exercise were seen in terms of improved pain intensity and quality of life.”
Aerobic exercises
- Brisk walking
- Swimming
- Running
- Cycling
Strength training
- Lifting weights
- Using resistance bands
- Sit-ups, press-ups, crunches and leg squats
- Using weight machines at a gym
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