When you’re living with fibromyalgia, navigating day-to-day life is already challenging—so the last thing you want is a job that adds fuel to the fire. While there’s no universal “no-go” career list for fibromyalgia, certain jobs are far more likely to increase pain, stress, and fatigue. These are the types of work environments you’ll want to be mindful of—and ideally avoid altogether.
Let’s explore why this matters and what types of jobs may be especially problematic for someone managing this complex condition.
One of the biggest red flags for fibromyalgia patients is any job that demands excessive physical activity, repetitive motion, or prolonged standing/sitting. Physical stress takes a heavy toll on a nervous system that’s already overstimulated and struggling to regulate.
Jobs to be cautious about include:
Even seemingly low-impact work—like a desk job—can backfire if it involves poor ergonomics, long hours without movement, or high computer screen exposure, which may affect cranial nerve function.
What many don’t realize is that emotional stress can be just as harmful—if not more—than physical stress for fibromyalgia sufferers. Dr. Katinka frequently points out that emotional trauma and unresolved stress responses can become “stuck” in the nervous system, constantly signaling the body that it’s under threat.
Avoid or carefully evaluate jobs that:
If your body feels like it’s bracing for impact every day, that job is doing damage—even if you’re sitting behind a desk.
Start your patient journey with the Spero Clinic's neurologic rehabilitation program.
