The practice of walking decreases depression in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Fibromyalgia syndrome is a disease characterized by generalized and chronic muscular pain, frequently associated with depression. Objective: To determine the effect of 16 practice sessions of a walking program on depression in women with fibromyalgia. Methods: The study included 12 women with fibromyalgia who performed two practices walks a week for two months, with 60 minutes. The stages of depression were identified by the Beck Depression Inventory. Results: It was found that the average depression score decreased from 22.75 to 14.33 (p = 0.002). Prior to the beginning of the walking program 41.6% of the participants had severe depression and after the intervention most had minimal depression. Conclusion: The practice of 16 walking sessions significantly reduces the state of depression in women with fibromyalgia.