What role does physical activity play in fibromyalgia treatment?
A. Getting up and moving is the key to improving fibromyalgia. A lack of physical activity worsens fibromyalgia symptoms because unconditioned muscles are more sensitive to pain. Although activity and exercise may be the last thing people with fibromyalgia want to do when they feel achy and tired, studies have shown that fibromyalgia symptoms improve after six to eight weeks of moderate aerobic exercise. It s thought that aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, and bicycling raise the pain threshold and increase pain tolerance, along with physical stamina. At Johns Hopkins, we encourage our fibromyalgia patients to explore different ways to become active and find what works best for them. It is important not to overdo activity, however. Start slowly, with perhaps 5 to 10 minutes of brisk walking a day, for example. As you begin to feel better, gradually increase the time of the exercise session until you are up to 30 to 40 minutes of aerobic activity at least three times a week.
