Fibromyalgia and Pilates

This weekend, Saturday October 1, 2011, I will be the leadoff presenter at a workshop that deals with Pilates for Fibromyalgia Syndrome.  The workshop will first look at the background of Fibromyalgia (that is my part) and then focus on how Pilates can be an effective tool in the management of this chronic pain syndrome.  After my introduction, the heart of the workshop will be presented by Kathryn Russell and Marilyn Koval of Viva Pilates Studio. The workshop will be held at Body Arts and Sciences International (BASI) in Costa Mesa, California. 

Research has shown that Fibromyalgia is best managed through an inter-disciplinary approach focusing on exercise. The Pilates method, with its emphasis on breath, core strength and joint stability, is particularly successful for those suffering from Fibromyalgia. Due to potential physical limitations due to pain and stiffness, people with Fibromyalgia may need to exercise with special modifications and strategies necessary.

A full description of Fibromyalgia Syndrome would fill pages and pages but a brief summary of this disorder and its control follows:

Hermosa Beach Open- Volleyball Injury Care

The world of professional beach volleyball players requires athletes be in top shape.  (Try running and jumping in beach sand and see how long you last). Demanding practice and tournament schedules often lead to playing with pain and injuries.  When players are involved in tournament play, there is usually little time between matches.  Injuries that might interfere with moving up the ladder towards victory demand immediate attention. 

My Favorite Symptom

It probably sounds odd that I have a favorite patient complaint.  I see patients with a variety of problems.  Some complaints are new, often due to sports, work-related and motor vehicle accidents.  Other problems are chronic, recurring complaints that patients have tried to manage, unsuccessfully, with many approaches.  No matter what the cause or how long it has persisted, when I am able to help someone overcome or better manage a problem, I am deeply gratified. 

One particular patient complaint, however, remains my favorite.