Effectiveness of a strength training program for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: feasibility study

Resumo

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a disease characterized by chronic pain; it is a syndrome with an unknown cause and has no cure. Objective: Examine the feasibility of a strength training program in patients with FM. Methods: Fortyseven patients from general community were allocated into two groups: strength training group and control group. The patients underwent strength training performed three times per week for eight weeks. We used the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and Perceived Stress Scale to obtain data. Results: After eight weeks of strength training, there was a significant reduction in pain (p = 0.00) and stress (p = 0.02). No changes were found in the variables analyzed in the control group pre- and post-test. Conclusions: The practice of strength training is a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of fibromyalgia patients.