Is exercise useful in the treatment of fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome?
Yes. The most consistent improvement in fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome occurs with exercise. The exercise hormonal response is abnormal in patients with fibromyalgia (increase in growth hormone concentration, the opposite of normal response), so the frequency and intensity of exercise needs to be carefully adjusted to the patient’s tolerance. Although strengthening (progressive resistive or isokinetic) exercise can be helpful, the best outcome appears to result from conditioning, or aerobic, exercise.
