I recently attended a presentation about fibromyalgia, put on by the Arthritis Foundation, with help from Pfizer. Their guest speaker was Dr. Andrew Holman, a renowned Rheumatologist with an interest in new treatment options for fibromyalgia. I’ve heard so much about him and was excited to hear him speak. I was even more excited when he was personally introduced to me! Holman covered the basics of fibromyalgia (definition, diagnosis and treatment), but I will be sharing the facts I think may be less commonly known. Did you know that…

• 70% of people with fibromyalgia have neurological deficits
• 30% of people with rheumatoid arthritis also have fibromyalgia
• At least 60% of people with fibromyalgia also have cervical spinal cord compression
• Most men with fibromyalgia are 35-60 years old
• Hypermobility often runs in families of those with fibromyalgia

Some “Smart Steps” Holman shared were to take an active role in your care and become part of the treatment. He continued on, saying to do things that you enjoy: engage in hobbies you enjoy, spend time with people who are positive, go places that interest you. I can really tell how these things have made a positive difference in my personal life. He emphasized the importance of knowing someone else with fibromyalgia, both for the emotional support and to avoid feelings of isolation. Isolation so often comes to those living with chronic illnesses, like fibromyalgia.

When discussing treatment options Holman suggested looking into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as it has been proven to help. He mentioned that although the FDA-approved fibromyalgia medications help many, there are many people they do not help. He then acknowledged the need for the medical community to find better treatment options. Holman thinks that water exercise is the best type of exercise for those with fibromyalgia because it is non-weight bearing and low-impact. 30% of people with fibromyalgia have exercise intolerance though. To read more about what Dr. Holman said regarding sleep, read Tips & Tools for Sleeping Well – Part II.

After Holman finished speaking the Arthritis Foundation showed a demonstration of their Tai Chi program. I didn’t realize that the movements in their program don’t require deep bending or squatting. This makes it easier on the body than other Tai Chi programs. Their program uses Sun style Tai Chi which uses steps and exercises that may improve mobility, breathing and relaxation. Tai Chi has been in the news quite a bit lately for studies showing improvement of those with fibromyalgia after implementing a Tai Chi regimen.

One lady, with fibromyalgia, demonstrated Tai Chi from a sitting position