Control Fibromyalgia With Exercise & Weight Control

As if you needed another reason to start exercising, researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology are reporting that women who are physically fit and exercise regularly are at a decreased risk for developing the mysterious chronic pain disorder known as fibromyalgia.Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that confounds scientists and doctors. Its cause is not completely understood, and effective treatments are elusive. Doctors suspect that the disorder is caused by a malfunction in the nervous system that is likely genetic, but that answer offers little in terms of management or prevention of what can be a debilitating disorder.The American College of Rheumatology estimates that around 5 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia, and nearly 90 percent of those diagnosed are older women. Most patients with fibromyalgia suffer severe chronic pain in their joints, especially their jaw. Other symptoms include sensory sensitivity, chronic headaches, migraines, and sleep disorders. Fibromyalgia is also linked to an increased rate of depression and anxiety.Much of the emotional stress caused by fibromyalgia comes from the lack of available treatments. Even diagnosis can be difficult. But now researchers believe that they are getting closer to understanding how fibromyalgia occurs and how it can be blocked.