What is the goal of physical activity programs in Fibromyalgia patients?
Exercise improves muscle conditioning, which may lead to less muscle microtrauma and interrupt the positive feedback loop. Aerobic exercise may furthermore improve restorative sleep and increase endogenous endorphins within the CNS. Because patients with FM often experience severe postexercise pain, the intensity of exercise should initially be low and gradually increased as tolerated. Initial attempts in some patients may only include gentle stretching and limited daily walking. Exercise should be nonimpact, such as swimming, water aerobics, walking with proper footwear, or bicycling. Some patients find group exercise programs including Tai-chi and yoga to be beneficial, and evidence in the literature supports their use. Physical therapy consultation may be helpful in designing the optimal exercise program for a particular patient.
