The origin of the word “fibromyalgia” tells you everything you need to know about the condition: “fibro” (the Latin term for “fibrous tissue”), “myo” (the Greek word for “muscle”) and “algia” (the Greek word for “pain”). Sufferers of fibromyalgia will tell you that they experience pain and tenderness, often associated with muscles and joints.
Many people assume fibromyalgia is a type of arthritis, but this is not entirely true. Unlike arthritis, fibromyalgia doesn’t actually cause inflammation and damage to joints and tendons. But, like arthritis, it can cause chronic pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia can also cause a whole host of other symptoms not usually associated with arthritis, such as memory problems, headaches, and sensitivity to bright lights or loud noises.
Most fibromyalgia sufferers would rather not resort to prescription meds that cause side effects and need to be taken long-term. But there are very few ideas on how to treat pain naturally in such cases. Pain relief seems an unattainable goal.
Well — here’s some good news on the fibromyalgia front: an exercise program could reduce pain symptoms, while at the same time boosting brain function and mood. Researchers from the Physical Education and Sports Department, at University of Seville in Spain, conducted a study aimed at evaluating the immediate effects of exercise in the treatment of fibromyalgia.
Forty-one women with fibromyalgia were randomly assigned to a training group or a control group. Quality of life, physical function, physical fitness, and depression were assessed at the start of the study and after each six-month intervention of the 30-month trial.
The research team found that there was a measurable improvement in quality-of-life, physical function, depression, and aerobic capacity in the women once they started the exercise program. They concluded that a long-term exercise program can produce immediate improvements in key health areas in women with fibromyalgia. And — they stated that the benefits achieved with regular training can be maintained for 30 months.
It would seem that exercise is definitely worth a try if you suffer from the pain and discomfort of fibromyalgia. Be sure to work closely with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
For another potential natural cure for fibromyalgia symptoms, read the article Natural Amino Acid Compound Promising Treatment for Fibromyalgia.