I use yoga, cardio (treadmill, stairmaster, walking) and lower body machine weights to help control pain levels. (In addition to hot baths, massages, and restricting computer time of course.) I agree that increased blood flow/endorphins are key elements!

I have been wanting to strengthen my upper body but am afraid to--am afraid of flareups. There are some interesting suggestions here (e.g. performing light weight lifting exercises in the water or while lying on your back). I noticed that biceps curls were mentioned, as well as exercises to strengthen the mid-trapezius and rhomboids. Can anybody share more specific information about which exercises they have been able to perform successfully without inducing flareups? (For example, what could one do in addition to bicep curls, performed very carefully of course.)

Thanks!