Study links excess weight with fibromyalgia

April 29, 2010 A new study finds a link between excess weight and the pain disorder, especially among inactive women.

The study published in Arthritis Care and Research found women who exercised four times per week had a 29-percent lower risk of fibromyalgia, compared with inactive women.

Being overweight with a BMI of 25 or higher resulted in a 60 to 70-percent higher risk of developing the condition.

Researchers say the inflammation that is associated with obesity may heighten pain sensitivity.