Articles on Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that typically provides the basis for a number of different symptoms and clinical signs. Here you can read more about the various articles we have written about the chronic pain disorder fibromyalgia - and not least what kind of treatment and self-measures are available for this diagnosis.

 

Fibromyalgia is also known as soft tissue rheumatism. The condition can include symptoms such as chronic pain in the muscles and joints, fatigue and depression.

Fibromyalgia and elastic training: The best strength training?

Fibromyalgia and elastic training: The best strength training?

Exercising properly and individually is important for people with fibromyalgia. Many people experience deterioration when exercising too hard. In light of this, we take a closer look at what the research recommends for strength training.

A meta-analysis, i.e. the strongest form of research, was published on 31 July 2023 in American Journal of Physical Medicine & RehabilitationThe study consisted of a total of 11 research studies, where the effect of exercise with elastic bands for fibromyalgia patients was examined.¹ This therefore involves training with elastic band (often called pilates band) or minibands. Here they also directly compared flexibility training and aerobic training. They measured the startling results regarding fibromyalgia and elastic band exercise using the FIQ (fibromyalgia impact questionnaire).

Tips: Later in the article shows chiropractor Alexander Andorff two training programs that you can perform with elastics. A program for the upper part of the body (neck, shoulder and thoracic spine) - and another for the lower part of the body (hips, pelvis and lower back).

Exciting results measured with FIQ

Training for neck prolapse

FIQ is an abbreviation for fibromyalgia impact questionnaire.² This is an evaluation form that can be used for fibromyalgia patients. The evaluation covers three main categories:

  1. Function
  2. Influence in everyday life
  3. Symptoms and pain

In 2009, this evaluation was adapted to recent knowledge and research in fibromyalgia. They then added functional questions and also included questions about memory, cognitive function (fibrous mist), tenderness, balance and energy level (including evaluation of fatigue). These modifications made the form far more relevant and better for fibromyalgia patients. In this way, this evaluation method became far better in the use of research on fibromyalgia - including this meta-analysis that assessed the effect of exercise with rubber bands.

Knitting training had a positive effect on a number of factors

The study examined the effect on several symptomatic and functional factors. The 11 studies had a total of 530 participants - so the results of this research are particularly strong. Among other things, the impact was measured on:

  • Pain control
  • Tender points
  • Physical function
  • Cognitive depression

Knitting training could therefore show a very positive effect on these factors - which we will look at in more detail later in the article. Here they also directly compared the effects of flexibility training and aerobic training.

Our clinic departments at Vondtklinikkene (click here  for a complete overview of our clinics), including in Oslo (Lambert seats) and Viken (Eidsvoll Sound og Raw wood), has a distinctively high professional competence in the investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of pain in muscles, tendons, nerves and joints. Toe contact us if you want help from publicly authorized therapists with expertise in these fields.

Fibromyalgia, function and pain

Fibromyalgia is a chronic and complicated pain syndrome characterized by widespread and comprehensive pain and symptoms. This includes soft tissue pain, stiffness, cognitive impairment and a host of other symptoms. The diagnosis also includes neurological symptoms - and many of these are believed to, among other things, originate from central sensitization.

Fibromyalgia and impact on everyday function

There is no doubt that the chronic pain syndrome fibromyalgia can have a major impact on everyday function. Especially on bad days and periods, so-called flare-ups, the person will, among other things, be characterized by increased pain (hyperalgesia) and extreme fatigue (fatigue). These are, naturally enough, two factors that can turn even the mildest everyday tasks into nightmares. Among the questions assessed in the FIQ, we find a number of assessments of just everyday function - such as combing your hair or shopping in the shop.

Stretch training versus flexibility training

The meta-analysis compared the effect of elastic training with flexibility training (activities with a lot of stretching). Here it could be seen from the reported results that training with rubber bands had a better effect on the overall function and symptoms. Among other things, this meant better pain control, less tenderness in tender points and improved functional capacity. One possible reason why elastic training was more effective is that it stimulates circulation deep into the soft tissue – and produces strengthening muscle repair – without the training being too hard. We also want to emphasize that this is much of the same effect you can achieve with training in a warm water pool. In the same comment, we also want to say that many people benefit greatly from flexibility training.

Recommendation: Training with elastic band (link opens in a new browser window)

A flat, elastic band is often called a pilates band or yoga band. This type of elastic is easy to use and makes it easy to carry out a wide range of training exercises - for both the upper and lower part of the body. Press the image or here to learn more about the pilates band.

Stretch training versus aerobic training

natural painkillers

Aerobic training is the same as cardio training - but without oxygen deprivation (anaerobic training). This can include activities such as walking, light swimming or cycling. To mention a few. Here, there was not as great a difference when compared to the effect of training with rubber bands. However, the results were in favor of elastic training when comparing the two directly with each other. Fitness training has also had a documented positive effect for people with fibromyalgia.³

"Here we would like to make a comment - and that is the effect of varying the training. Precisely for this reason, at the Vondtklinikkene - Multidisciplinary Health, we will be able to recommend an individually adapted approach to training - which consists of a combination of cardio training, light strength training and stretching (for example, light yoga)."

Fibromyalgia and too hard exercise

Many people with fibromyalgia report that too hard exercise intensity can worsen symptoms and pain. Here, we are probably talking about physical overload where one has exceeded one's own limits and load capacity. The consequence can therefore be that the body becomes sensitized and that one experiences a flare-up of symptoms. Thus, it is incredibly important that you adapt the training above to your own conditions and medical history. Low-load training also offers the advantage that you can build up gradually and find your own limits for load.

- Pain clinics: We can help you with pain in muscles and joints

Our publicly authorized clinicians at our affiliated clinics The pain clinics has a distinctive professional interest and expertise in the investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of muscle, tendon, nerve and joint ailments. We work purposefully to help you find the cause of your pain and symptoms - and then help you get rid of them.

Stretching exercise for the upper body and shoulders (with video)


In the video above shows chiropractor Alexander Andorff came up with a number of good exercises with elastic bands for the shoulders, neck and upper back. These include:

  1. Rotation exercises (internal rotation and external rotation)
  2. Standing rowing with bungee cords
  3. Standing side pulldown
  4. Standing side raise
  5. Standing front raise

In the video, a pilates band (see example via the link here). Such a training jersey is both practical and easy to use. Not least, it is incredibly easy to take with you around - so you can easily maintain your training frequency. The exercises you see above can make a good training program to start with. Remember to start calmly, both in terms of intensity and frequency. 2 sets of 6-10 repetitions in each set are recommended (but this must be adapted individually). 2-3 sessions a week will give you a good training effect.

Mini band training for the lower body and knees (with video)


In this video, a minibands. A form of elastic training that can make the training of the knees, hips and pelvis both safer and more adapted. In this way, you avoid large wrong movements and the like. The exercises you see include:

  1. Monster corridor
  2. Side-lying leg lift with mini band
  3. Seated extended leg lift
  4. Scallops (also called oysters or clams)
  5. Overrotation of the hips

With these five exercises, you will get an effective and good training session. The first sessions should be calm and you can aim for approximately 5 repetitions and 3 sets per exercise. Gradually you can gradually work your way up to 10 repetitions and 3 sets. But remember to focus on calm progression. Aim for 2 sessions a week.

Recommendation: Training with mini bands (link opens in a new browser window)

A flat, elastic band is often called a pilates band or yoga band. This type of elastic is easy to use and makes it easy to carry out a wide range of training exercises - for both the upper and lower part of the body. We recommend green type (mild-medium resistance) or blue type (medium) for people with fibromyalgia. Press the image or here to learn more about the pilates band.

Summary - Fibromyalgia and bungee cord training: Training is individual, but a bungee cord can be a safe training partner

As mentioned earlier, we recommend a variation in exercise for people with fibromyalgia - which stretches, provides more mobility, relaxation and adapted strength. Here we all have certain factors that influence which type of training we respond best to. But we would like to emphasize that fibromyalgia and elastic training can be a gentle and good combination. Not least, it is practical, as it can easily be done at home.

Join our Rheumatism and Fibromyalgia Support Group

Feel free to join the Facebook group «Rheumatism and Chronic Pain - Norway: Research and news» (Press here) for the latest updates on research and media articles on rheumatic and chronic disorders. Here, members can also get help and support - at all times of the day - through the exchange of their own experiences and advice. Otherwise, we would greatly appreciate it if you would follow us on the Facebook page and Our Youtube channel (the link opens in a new window).

Please share to support those with rheumatism and chronic pain

Hello! Can we ask you a favor? We kindly ask you to like the post on our FB page and to share this article on social media or via your blog (please link directly to the article). We are also happy to exchange links with relevant websites (contact us on Facebook if you want to exchange links with your website). Understanding, general knowledge and increased focus is the first step towards a better everyday life for those with rheumatism and chronic pain diagnoses. So we hope that you will help us with this battle of knowledge!

The pain clinics: Your choice for modern interdisciplinary health

Our clinicians and clinic departments always aim to be among the top elite in the field of investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of pain and injuries in muscles, tendons, nerves and joints. By pressing the button below, you can see an overview of our clinics - including in Oslo (incl Lambert seats) and Viken (Raw wood og Eidsvoll Sound).

Sources and Research

1. Wang et al, 2023. Effect of Resistance Exercises on Function and Pain in Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2023 Jul 31. [Meta-analysis / PubMed]

2. Bennett et al, 2009. The Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR): validation and psychometric properties. Arthritis Res Ther. 2009; 11(4). [PubMed]

3. Bidonde et al, 2017. Aerobic exercise training for adults with fibromyalgia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017 Jun 21;6(6):CD012700. [Cochrane]

Article: Fibromyalgia and elastic training: The best strength training?

Written by: Our publicly authorized chiropractors and physiotherapists at Vondtklinikkene

Fact check: Our articles are always based on serious sources, research studies and research journals - such as PubMed and the Cochrane Library. Please contact us if you spot any errors or have comments.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about fibromyalgia and elastic training

1. Which type of knitting is best?

The most important thing is how you use it. But we often recommend the type that are flat and wider (pilates band) – as these are also often more gentle. It is also the case that you would like a shorter knit (minibands) when training the lower body - including hips and knees.

2. Which forms of training do you recommend trying out?

Firstly, we would like to point out that training and activity should be individually adapted. But several people with fibromyalgia report positive effects of light cardio training - for example walking, cycling, yoga and training in a warm water pool.

Fibromyalgia and tinnitus: When the tinnitus starts

Fibromyalgia and tinnitus: When the tinnitus starts

Here we take a closer look at the relationship between fibromyalgia and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Why does tinnitus occur more frequently in people with fibromyalgia? You will get an answer to that in this article.

Let's begin by saying that fibromyalgia is an extremely complex chronic pain syndrome. The research has revealed that the diagnosis is both neurologically and rheumatologically conditional - i.e. multifactorial. Many people with fibromyalgia also report that they are bothered by tinnitus (ringing in the ears) - something that the researchers have also looked into. Tinnitus thus involves the perception of sounds inside the ear, which does not really have an external source. Many people experience it as a beeping sound, but for others it may sound more like a hum or hiss.

Startling results from a well-known study

Pain in the ear - Photo Wikimedia

In a well-known study comparing the extent of tinnitus among people with fibromyalgia versus a control group (who did not have fibromyalgia), rather startling results were found. Among those tested, they found that 59.3% of fibromyalgia patients had tinnitus. In the control group, the figure was down to 7.7%. Thus, there was a markedly higher prevalence of tinnitus among the fibromyalgia group.¹ But why is this really so?

What is tinnitus?

Before we go any further, let's take a small step back and look a little closer at tinnitus. Tinnitus is the perception of a sound without a source emitting this sound. How people experience tinnitus can vary greatly - and there is a great variety of sounds that can be experienced. Among other things, they can be described as:

  1. ringing
  2. Hissing
  3. Roaring
  4. Grasshopper sounds
  5. Screaming sounds
  6. Boiling teapot
  7. Flowing sounds
  8. Static noise
  9. Pulsation
  10. Waves
  11. Clicking
  12. Ringtone
  13. Music

In addition to the fact that the sound you experience can vary from person to person, so can the intensity. For some the sound is loud and intrusive - and for others the sound is more like a light background noise. Some also experience it constantly, in contrast to others, who may experience it more episodically.

Our clinic departments at Vondtklinikkene (click here  for a complete overview of our clinics), including in Oslo (Lambert seats) and Viken (Eidsvoll Sound og Raw wood), has a distinctively high professional competence in the investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of pain in muscles, tendons, nerves and joints. Toe contact us if you want the help of therapists with expertise in these fields.

The central nervous system and tinnitus

Exciting research in the journal 'Hearing research', which unsurprisingly publishes studies on hearing problems and tinnitus, believes that tinnitus can originate from the central nervous system.² They therefore indicate that ringing in the ears can stem from an overactivity in the central nervous system. A condition known as central sensitization. Many people with fibromyalgia will draw attention to this, as it is also believed that several of the symptoms in fibromyalgia, including several of the neurological ones, can stem from this particular condition.

What is central sensitization?

The central nervous system consists of the spinal cord and the brain. Overactivity in the nerves belonging to the central nervous system is described as central sensitization - and has previously, among other things, been linked to increased reporting of pain signals.³ The same process that is speculated to play a central role in the elevated pain signals in fibromyalgia patients. We have previously written a comprehensive article about this fibromyalgia and central sensitization (the link opens in a new browser window - so you can finish reading this article first) which we recommend you read.

Hyperalgesia: A consequence of central sensitization

The medical term for overreported pain signals is hyperalgesia. In short, this means that pain stimuli are strongly amplified and thus result in significantly more pain than it really should. A study published in 'The international tinnitus journal' also reported a possible link between neck pain and tinnitus - where they described that as many as 64% of those who came in with tinnitus also had pain and reduced function in the neck. A known problem area for many with fibromyalgia.4

Good relaxation tip: 10-20 minutes daily in neck hammock (link opens in a new browser window)

As mentioned, many people suffer from fibromyalgia with tension in the upper back and neck. A neck hammock is a well-known relaxation technique that stretches the muscles and joints of the neck - and can therefore provide relief. In the case of significant tension and stiffness, you can expect to feel the stretch extra well the first few times. Thus, it may be wise to only take short sessions at the start (around 5 minutes). Press the image or here to read more about how it works.

Can the ear symptoms and tinnitus in fibromyalgia patients be due to central sensitization?

Yes, say the researchers. In a larger investigation to find out why many fibromyalgia patients experience ringing in the ears and ear symptoms (among other things a pressure in the ear), they concluded that it is not due to a fault in the inner ear. But believed that it was due to central sensitization. This research was published in the recognized journal Clinical Rheumatology.5 Previously, we have written about how stress and other triggers seem to worsen both symptoms and pain in fibromyalgia. Thus, it is natural that we talk about relaxation techniques and treatment techniques that can help reduce such tensions.

- Pain clinics: We can help you with pain in muscles and joints

Our publicly authorized clinicians at our affiliated clinics The pain clinics has a distinctive professional interest and expertise in the investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of muscle, tendon, nerve and joint ailments. We work purposefully to help you find the cause of your pain and symptoms - and then help you get rid of them.

Treatment and relaxation against tinnitus

Unfortunately, there is no cure for tinnitus, but research has shown that several treatment methods and relaxation techniques can provide symptom relief.6 This includes, among other things:

  1. Relaxation techniques and mindfulness
  2. sound therapy
  3. Treatment of tense muscles in the neck and jaw

Combining several techniques provides the basis for optimal results. It is important that people affected by tinnitus have concrete self-measures and techniques they can use when the tinnitus is at its worst. So that they can experience a sense of mastery and thus feel that they have somewhat more control over the condition.

1. Relaxation techniques and mindfulness

Relaxation comes in many forms. Relaxation massage, breathing techniques, acupressure mat, yoga, mindfulness and cognitive therapy can all be examples of techniques that calm and relieve tension. Combining such techniques, for example by using sound therapy (we talk more about that in the next part of the article) while lying on an acupressure mat, can be particularly useful.

2. Sound therapy

sound therapy

Sound therapy is a treatment method used for tinnitus. Specially designed sound, at frequencies adapted to measurements of the patient, zeroes out the tinnitus or shifts the focus away from the tinnitus. The sounds can be anything from falling rain, waves, nature sounds or the like.

3. Treatment of tense muscles in the neck and jaw

chiropractic treatment

It is well documented that tension in the neck and jaw is a major problem for many with fibromyalgia. Previously, we also referred to research that showed a higher incidence of tinnitus among patients with neck pain and neck ailments - including wear-and-tear changes (arthrosis). On this basis, it can be said that physical treatment that dissolves muscular tension can play a positive role for this patient group. Previously, we have referred to research which shows that fibromyalgia patients can respond well to adapted relaxation massage.8 Dry needling (intramuscular acupuncture) is also a form of treatment that can reduce muscle pain in this patient group.9

VIDEO: 5 exercises for a tired neck

In the video above shows chiropractor Alexander Andorff v/ Vondtklinikkene ad Lambertseter in Oslo presented six exercises adapted for patients with significant neck osteoarthritis. This exercise program consists of gentle exercises that are also suitable for people with fibromyalgia. Just remember to adapt your daily form and medical history. Feel free to subscribe to our YouTube channel for free if you wish.

«Summary: Research therefore shows that close to 60% of people with fibromyalgia suffer from tinnitus - to varying degrees. From milder, episodic editions to constant and loud editions. There is no cure for tinnitus, but there are a number of symptom-relieving measures that patients with fibromyalgia and tinnitus should be aware of. A combination of self-measures, adaptations in everyday life and professional follow-up can produce optimal results."

Pain clinics: A holistic treatment approach is important

Feel free to contact one of our clinic departments belonging to Vondtklinikkene if you would like more information about how we use combinations of treatment techniques – including massage, nerve mobilization and therapeutic laser therapy – to achieve the best possible results.

Join our Rheumatism and Fibromyalgia Support Group

Feel free to join the Facebook group «Rheumatism and Chronic Pain - Norway: Research and news» (Press here) for the latest updates on research and media articles on rheumatic and chronic disorders. Here, members can also get help and support - at all times of the day - through the exchange of their own experiences and advice. Otherwise, we would greatly appreciate it if you would follow us on the Facebook page and Our Youtube channel (the link opens in a new window).

Please share to support those with rheumatism and chronic pain

Hello! Can we ask you a favor? We kindly ask you to like the post on our FB page and to share this article on social media or via your blog (please link directly to the article). We are also happy to exchange links with relevant websites (contact us on Facebook if you want to exchange links with your website). Understanding, general knowledge and increased focus is the first step towards a better everyday life for those with rheumatism and chronic pain diagnoses. So we hope that you will help us with this battle of knowledge!

The pain clinics: Your choice for modern interdisciplinary health

Our clinicians and clinic departments always aim to be among the top elite in the field of investigation, treatment and rehabilitation of pain and injuries in muscles, tendons, nerves and joints. By pressing the button below, you can see an overview of our clinics - including in Oslo (incl Lambert seats) and Viken (Raw wood og Eidsvoll Sound).

Sources and Research

1. Puri et al, 2021. Tinnitus in Fibromyalgia. PR Health Sci J. 2021 Dec;40(4):188-191. [PubMed]

2. Norena et al, 2013. Tinnitus-related neural activity: theories of generation, propagation, and centralization. Hear Res. 2013 Jan;295:161-71. [PubMed]

3. Latremoliere et al, 2009. Central Sensitization: A Generator of Pain Hypersensitivity by Central Neural Plasticity. J Pain. 2009 Sep; 10(9): 895–926.

4. Koning et al, 2021. Proprioception: the missing link in the pathogenesis of tinnitus? Int Tinnitus J. 2021 Jan 25;24(2):102-107.

5. Iikuni et al, 2013. Why do patients with fibromyalgia complain of ear-related symptoms? Ear-related symptoms and otological findings in patients with fibromyalgia. Clin Rheumatol. 2013 Oct;32(10):1437-41.

6. McKenna et al, 2017. Psychother Psychosom. 2017;86(6):351-361. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy as a Treatment for Chronic Tinnitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

7. Cuesta et al, 2022. Efficacy of Sound Therapy for Tinnitus Using an Enriched Acoustic Environment with Hearing-Loss Matched Broadband Noise. Brain Sci. 2022 Jan 6;12(1):82.

8. Field et al, 2002. Fibromyalgia pain and substance P decrease and sleep improves after massage therapy. J Clin Rheumatol. 2002 Apr;8(2):72-6. [PubMed]

9. Valera-Calero et al, 2022. Efficacy of Dry Needling and Acupuncture in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. [Meta-analysis / PubMed]

Article: Fibromyalgia and tinnitus: When the tinnitus starts

Written by: Our publicly authorized chiropractors and physiotherapists at Vondtklinikkene

Fact check: Our articles are always based on serious sources, research studies and research journals - such as PubMed and the Cochrane Library. Please contact us if you spot any errors or have comments.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about fibromyalgia and tinnitus

1. Are tinnitus and tinnitus the same?

Yes, tinnitus is just a synonym for tinnitus - and vice versa.