Yoga and Fibromyalgia

Yoga and Fibromyalgia refers to research on yoga interventions for fibromyalgia syndrome.

Summary

Studies evaluate yoga’s effects on widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and quality of life in fibromyalgia.

Key Findings

Meta-analyses show moderate improvements in pain, fatigue, and quality of life compared to non-exercise controls. Yoga reduces tender point count and pain catastrophizing. Effects are comparable to aerobic exercise. Gentle and restorative styles are best tolerated.

Methodology

RCTs typically run 8–12 weeks with fibromyalgia-specific outcomes (FIQ, tender point count, pain scales). Controls include education, aerobic exercise, and waitlist.

Limitations

High symptom variability in fibromyalgia. Expectancy effects may inflate results. Long-term maintenance of benefits is uncertain.

Verification Notes

• Langhorst et al. (2012) and subsequent meta-analyses inform conclusions.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.