Fibromyalgia, also called fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), is a long-term condition that causes pain all over the body.
Symptoms of fibromyalgia:
- widespread pain
- increased sensitivity to pain
- extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- muscle stiffness
- difficulty sleeping
- problems with mental processes (known as “fibro-fog”), such as problems with memory and concentration
- headaches
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a digestive condition that causes stomach pain and bloating
Fibromyalgia can cause you to feel like you are unable to do as much exercise or physical activity as much as you’d like.
Below are some tips that can help you manage and relieve some of the symptoms you may experience with Fibromyalgia.
- An exercise programme designed around your condition can help manage your symptoms and improve your overall health. The programme is likely to involve both aerobic and strengthening exercises.
- Aerobic fitness exercises completed at the intensity level that suits you, may improve quality of life and relieve pain.
- Resistance and strengthening exercises can improve muscle strength, physical disability, depression and quality of life. This could make you feel less tired, have a higher ability to function in day-to-day life and experience a boost in your mood.
- Pace yourself balance periods of activity with periods of rest – not over doing it and pushing yourself beyond your limits.
- Regularly take time to relax and practice relaxation techniques as stress can make your symptoms worse or cause them to flare up.
- Develop better sleeping habits Fibromyalgia can cause sleep like problems such as Insomnia, however developing good sleeping habits can help you to get more rest.
If you would like support on how to exercise managing your fibromyalgia, we would be happy to support. Please email activelifestyles@lleisure.co.uk
You may find it helpful to be a part of a community of people who are experiencing the same symptoms as yourself. Visit UK Fibromyalgia’s support group section (link external link below) for a list of support groups across the country.
http://www.fmauk.org/contactsmenu/supportgroups
For more information on Fibromyalgia visit the NHS website. (link external link below)
