If you are looking for a functional form of exercise that can help improve strength, balance, and flexibility without worsening pain or fatigue related to fibromyalgia, then look no further than Pilates.

Can Pilates be effective for someone with Fibromyalgia?

Absolutely. In one study, fifty women who had been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia were randomized into two different treatment groups. The first group underwent Pilates training for 60 minutes three times a week for a duration of twelve weeks. The control group was given a home exercise program. At 12 weeks, the group receiving the Pilates training noted a significant improvement in pain as well as a reduction of tender points. They also noted an overall improvement in quality of life compared to the control group. At the 24 week mark, the group who had received the Pilates training did not notice a difference in pain but did have a sustained reduction in tender points and overall life quality compared to the control group.

The authors concluded that Pilates was safe and effective in the treatment of Fibromyalgia. The difference in the pain reduction for the group receiving Pilates at 12 and 24 weeks may have been simply that the Pilates treatment stopped at 12 weeks. They experienced a reduction in pain while they were doing the Pilates training. READ MORE…

Article Submitted by: Chithrah Cherian

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