Newbie with spinal problems and fibromyalgia

  • Hi I am new to the board. My name is Michelle. As you can see in the title I have some health issues and need to lose weight to help me even move. I have joined several fibro support groups and none have been helpful for weight loss. Does anyone know of any low impact things I can do? I am suppose to push through the pain with fibro but my many spinal issues get in the way. HELP! Thanks
  • I'm not sure about exercises specifically for fibromyalgia but spinal injuries, I'm very familiar with.

    Walking is probably the best for your back since it works the muscles surrounding your spine to better support it. I know water exercise (and even swimming) is supposed to be pretty low impact. Oh! And Tai Chi. Slow motions, low impact. Just take your time to build up.

    Good luck and welcome!
  • Thank you for your reply. The fibro is mostly under control it is the spinal problems that really bother me.
  • Have you talked to your doctor about what you can and cannot do? I have fibro and some nerve damage from a herniated disc. Two of the discs in my lower back periodically give me problems if I don't change positions frequently. Sitting is the worst.

    When I first started, I could only do warm water exercises. If there's a warm water program in your area, I highly recommend it. Some insurances even cover the program and it can be paid for with medical savings accounts also. I always wondered why some ymca pools were so warm, and it's because certified arthritis water classes have to be kept at a minimum of 85 degrees. 90 is awesome, especially if the air in the pool area and locker rooms is kept reasonably warm.


    One thing to keep in mind if you do find a warm water program, spending much more than two hours in the warm water for some back problems is counterproductive. The freedom from gravity in the water reduces pain considerably, but if you're in the water too long, you have to readjust to gravity again which can cause rebound pain.
  • My friend has fibro and she does yoga every day.