Exercise and Fibromyalgia

Principle Investigator: W. Michael Hooten, M.D.
Project Coordinator: Krista ColemanWood, Ph.D. — colemanwood.krista@mayo.edu

Patient being tested in the Motion Analysis Laboratory for strength of her quadricep.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points - places on your body where slight pressure causes pain. Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men. Previously, fibromyalgia was known by other names such as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias.

The Motion Analysis Laboratory is working in conjunction with the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Pain Rehabilitation Center to investigate the role that exercise has on both the immediate and long term improvements in pain severity. Patients are randomized into two groups. One group exercises with light aerobic and stretching exercises. The second group’s exercise is strength training.

Patients are tested in the Motion Analysis Laboratory for strength of the quadriceps (the muscle that straightens the knee). Patients are tested before beginning their exercise program and at the completion of the program. The data will then be compared to see which exercise regimen results in the greatest decrease in pain severity. Data will also be analyzed to determine if the amount of strength gained has a relationship to the amount of positive change the patient perceives. These changes may occur in both emotional and physical functioning.

The overall goal of this study is help determine the role of exercise in the treatment of fibromyalgia patients as well as assist in developing the best possible program for pain reduction and improved function.