We need to talk about the health problem fibromyalgia. This form of rheumatism can turn your life upside down – and it usually occurs between the ages of 25 and 40. It is also much more common in women than in men. But what exactly is it and what are the symptoms? And can you run with it? We looked it up for you.
What is Fibromyalgia?
The condition fibromyalgia is characterized by long-term (chronic) pain in your muscles and connective tissue, but also often by stiffness, fatigue, sleep disorders and mood swings. The complaints often change, so sometimes you suffer more from them than on any other day. The condition is difficult to diagnose because no abnormalities can be found in the body. As a result, the symptoms are not always properly understood by others – including general practitioners. This is despite the fact that, according to the Health Council, it is an important health problem.
What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia literally means ‘pain in connective tissue and muscles’. It falls into the category of soft tissue rheumatism and can be seen as a form of rheumatism. Fibromyalgia has the following symptoms:
- (chronic) pain, mainly in the neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs
- stiffness
- long-lasting (chronic) fatigue
- loss of strength in your muscles
- Pain upon simple touch
- sleep problems
- mood swings
- Intestinal complaints due to fatigue and painful muscles
- Poor memory and concentration
Can you cure fibromyalgia?
Unfortunately, there is no medication that can cure fibromyalgia, but the symptoms can be reduced through lifestyle adjustments. For example, sufficient exercise – according to what your body can handle – in combination with sufficient rest is very good to do. You can ask an exercise or physiotherapist for advice about the correct balance. It is also important to get enough sleep to prevent worsening of pain complaints. Yoga and meditation can also help you relax. Do you want to learn to deal with your complaints? Then you can do the FES self-management training ‘Strong with pain’. This is a course from the patient association for people with fibromyalgia. Are you in a lot of pain? Your doctor can sometimes prescribe certain medications to combat the symptoms.
Can you run with fibromyalgia?
You can reduce the complaints by exercising in combination with sufficient rest, but whether you can run varies per individual. According to ReumaNederland, it is important to discuss with your treating physician whether your condition and joints allow you to run. For example, do you suffer a lot from your hips, knees, ankles and feet? Then running can be extra stressful. The same applies if you are overweight.
What should you pay attention to when running with fibromyalgia?
Can you start running? Then it is important to be advised and guided by a specialist. Also choose good running shoes that are recommended by a specialist or podiatrist. Then start slowly and let your body get used to running. It is best to run on forest floor, grass or an athletics track so that you have sufficient cushioning for your joints. Be alert to pain during or after running and listen carefully to your body. It is also important to warm up and cool down every training session, drink enough, prevent your body from cooling down quickly, take sufficient rest (2-3 days) and ensure sufficient variety.
Source: Reuma.nl
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