Episode
#34 Fibromyalgia and chronic pain management with Ryan Bourdo, Physical Therapist
- Published
- May 15, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3313
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Summary
If you live with fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, EDS or chronic pain, you may have been told that exercise can help — but also learned that pushing too hard can worsen symptoms. In this episode, physical therapist Ryan Bourdo (Oregon Health & Science University, Portland) explains how individualised, patient-led rehabilitation strategies can support quality of life without becoming an added burden. Ryan specialises in fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and related conditions, using a compassionate, listening-first approach to care. We’re also joined by occupational therapist Amy Mooney, founder of OT4ME, who shares insights from more than 20 years working with ME/CFS, Long Covid, EDS, MCAS and Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM). Together, we explore pacing, movement, rest, low-stress rehabilitation, and why treating patients as individuals is essential for meaningful care. Topics include: • Movement and chronic pain management • Why rehabilitation must be tailored to the individual • Listening to patients with energy-limiting conditions • Understanding rest, pacing and Post-Exertional Malaise • Creating sustainable, low-stress therapy strategies • Finding manageable ways to improve daily life makevisible.com @visible.health [email protected]