Myth 1: You cannot practice yoga or do stretching exercises.
This myth is widespread, but it is completely untrue. In reality, yoga and stretching can be extremely beneficial for people with fibromyalgia, provided they are done correctly and within the individual’s capabilities. Yoga, in particular, helps reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility, and decrease stress, all of which are crucial for managing this condition. Many yoga poses (asanas) can help alleviate muscle and joint pain while promoting relaxation, which is especially important for fibromyalgia patients, as the condition often involves chronic pain and muscle stiffness. Of course, it is important to adapt yoga and stretching to one’s personal limits and avoid overexertion. Therefore, it is recommended to work with an experienced instructor who can adjust the poses to meet the individual’s needs and condition. Stretching should be done gently, without sudden movements, to prevent injury or flare-ups of pain. Additionally, it is helpful to practice meditation techniques, as stress levels increase with this condition, and deep breathing and mindfulness can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and alleviate emotional tension.
Myth 2: Lifting weights won’t affect your condition.
Most people believe that with this disease they can do strength exercises or lift weights without any restrictions without any consequences for their health, but this is not the case. However, this is not the case. In reality, lifting heavy weights or performing intense strength training exercises without considering the specifics of the condition can worsen the situation and lead to pain or even injury. In most cases of fibromyalgia, there is chronic muscle pain and increased sensitivity to pain. Therefore, if the load is excessive or not properly distributed, it can trigger flare-ups of symptoms. Lifting heavy weights can overload the muscles and joints, increasing tension and pain, and potentially leading to the opposite effect—worsening mobility and interfering with everyday tasks. Instead, with fibromyalgia, it is essential to perform exercises with low intensity, gradually increasing the load. It is also important to work with a trainer or healthcare provider to properly tailor physical activity to your condition and avoid overloading the body.
Myth 3. The pain cannot be overcome, even with treatment.
This myth is widespread, but in reality, it is false. This disease is indeed characterised by chronic pain, but this does not mean that it cannot be controlled or relieved. Thanks to modern treatment methods, the pain can often be significantly reduced or even fully relieved, improving the patient’s quality of life. Treatment often involves a combination of medications such as Cymbalta, Milnace, Milza, physiotherapy, yoga, meditation, and psychological support. All of these methods work together effectively to reduce the symptoms. In addition, some people may experience relief after undergoing muscle tension treatments such as massage. It is important to understand that every individual is different, and for some, taking medication alone may be sufficient, while others may need to apply all available treatment methods. Therefore, doctors often develop a personalized treatment plan to help the patient find the most effective ways to reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
Myth 4: Stress does not worsen well-being.
Stress is indeed one of the main factors that can significantly worsen the condition of a person with fibromyalgia. Any situations that cause you to worry can greatly intensify the symptoms of this disease. In addition, stress worsens sleep quality, which is a critical factor for people diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Insufficient sleep increases sensitivity to pain and reduces the body’s ability to recover. Therefore, it is important to learn how to respond correctly to any situation that may occur in your life, and to devote time to meditation. This practice will teach you how to deal with negative scenarios that immediately arise in your head, and you will be able to overcome excessive anxiety, which also worsens the symptoms of this disease.