Exercise could help prevent fibromyalgia
A person’s weight and the amount of time they spend exercising may affect their future risk of developing the chronic pain syndrome fibromyalgia.
According to scientists at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, heavier people and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle may face an increased risk of the syndrome, which is characterised by widespread chronic pain and tenderness in the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms and legs.
The researchers analysed data from the Nord-Trondelag Health (HUNT) study, which was conducted between 1984 and 1995.
During that time, 2,380 cases of fibromyalgia were recorded among 15,990 women, none of whom had the condition at the start of the study.
The findings, which are published in the journal Arthritis Care & Research, show that women who exercised four times each week were 29 per cent less likely to develop fibromyalgia than those who were inactive.
Women who had a high body mass index (BMI) were also found to face a heightened risk of fibromyalgia, while those who were both inactive and overweight could be particularly at risk.
Lead researcher Dr Paul Mork commented: “These findings ... indicate that regular physical exercise, and thereby improved physical fitness, may serve as a buffer against the perpetuation of musculoskeletal symptoms that eventually lead to the development of fibromyalgia.”
Arthritis Research UK is carrying out a trial to see if a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy and exercise helps reduce symptoms in people with chronic widespread pain, which includes fibromyalgia.
