Fibromyalgia (FM) is now considered a central nervous system (CNS) disorder rather than a musculoskeletal condition. FM is managed best from a balance of different approaches including chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapies, exercise, diet, supplementation, stress management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and more. Common symptoms of FM include chronic fatigue and mental fog. I want to focus on exercise and its health benefits in improving quality of life.

A slow but steady pace is recommended when starting a program, making sure that pain and fatigue are under control prior to introducing aerobic exercise. Get an initial assessment of current fitness level and then start one to two levels below that level, gradually building up stamina to a goal of 20-30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity 5-6 days per week. Exercises that emphasize low-impact, high-aerobic output are the best, with water-based exercises at the top of the list. Running or simply swinging the arms and legs against the resistance of water are extremely effective. A study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy reported improved health-related quality of life in women with FM for those participating in water aerobics. The soothing benefits of warm water are helpful, and group classes add social benefits.

Walking offers health benefits for just about everyone. A Stanford University study has published very convincing evidence that walking is not only physically good for the body, but it's also mentally good for the brain. They've discovered walking actually improves creativity. The study found that it does not matter if you are walking on a treadmill or outdoors because both similarly boosted creative thinking in participants. Though past research has shown that aerobic exercise generally protects long-term cognitive brain function, until this study, the benefits of walking when compared to sitting had not been considered as important. The study found that creative responses by subjects doubled when they walked versus sitting a prolonged period of time. They also found that the creativity continued when the person sat back down shortly after a walk.

Since FM is a CNS not a muscle condition disorder another brain stimulating exercise is balancing. Depending on the age, agility and comfort of the person, adding balance-challenging exercises can be beneficial.

For more information, contact Dr. Wendy at haydenhealth@gmail.com.