Fibromyalgia Syndrome and Yoga

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition marked by widespread pain, sleep disturbances, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Current management uses a multidisciplinary approach, and yoga, which integrates physical postures, mindfulness, and breathwork, is considered a complementary therapy. Yoga may help manage pain, stress, sleep disturbances, and fatigue, and improve body awareness and quality of life. However, definitive conclusions about a clear clinical effect have not yet been established. The positive effects of yoga on overall health, functional capacity, and quality of life should be considered, and people with FMS should consult a healthcare provider before trying yoga.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and tenderness at specific points in the body, sleep disturbances, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Current management for FMS focuses on a multidisciplinary approach to symptom management. Among the complementary and alternative therapies used for symptom management, yoga holds a significant position. Yoga, which aims to achieve balance in physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects, is suggested to have potential benefits in managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These potential benefits include pain and stress management, reduction in sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue, increased body awareness, and improved quality of life. However, despite the expanding research on the relationship between yoga and fibromyalgia, definitive conclusions regarding a clear clinical effect have not yet been established. Nonetheless, the positive effects of practices such as yoga, which integrate physical postures, mindfulness, and breathwork, on overall health, functional capacity, and quality of life should be considered. People with fibromyalgia should consult their healthcare provider before trying therapeutic practices such as yoga.