Fibromyalgia: Understanding Trigger Points and How to Cope

Fibromyalgia-specific and safe exercises are essential when you live with fibromyalgia. Activities that get you moving are great, and just a few simple changes to standard exercises will help ease your stiffness and pain and boost energy.

• Loosen your muscles first to help avoid injuries. Start with your feet by making slow circular motions with your joints until they move smoothly. If it hurts, stop.
• Daily stretches help joints move easily. Start with the major muscle groups like your thighs, hips, calves, lower back, and shoulders. Hold the stretch for at least 30 seconds Again, if it hurts, stop. Try to stretch at least two times a week.
• Face a wall and place your palms flat on the surface. Put one foot forward and one foot back. Touch your heels on the floor and lean frontward. Your calf and the Achilles tendon at the back of your leg will pull and stretch. Hold this position for at least 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat. Stretch each calf at least three times.