title: Effects of muscle strengthening versus aerobic exercise program in fibromyalgia A six-month randomized controlled trial of exercise and pyridostigmine in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Spa treatment for primary fibromyalgia syndrome: a combination of thalassotherapy, exercise and patient education improves symptoms and quality of life. The Effectiveness of Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation in the Treatment of Fibromyalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluation of a Multimodal Treatment Program for Fibromyalgia Eight months of physical training in warm water improves physical and mental health in women with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Aerobic fitness effects in fibromyalgia. An exercise program in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Adherence during an individualized home based 12-week exercise program in women with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia: a randomised, controlled trial of a treatment programme based on self management Six weeks of whole-body vibration exercise improves pain and fatigue in women with fibromyalgia. Cost-utility of an 8-month aquatic training for women with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial Prescribed exercise in people with fibromyalgia: parallel group randomised controlled trial Biofeedback/relaxation training and exercise interventions for fibromyalgia: a prospective trial. Effects of short versus long bouts of aerobic exercise in sedentary women with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Group exercise, education, and combination self-management in women with fibromyalgia: a randomized trial. Effects of an aquatic versus non-aquatic respiratory exercise program on the respiratory muscle strength in healthy aged persons. Pool exercise combined with an education program for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. A prospective, randomized study. Thalassotherapy for fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial comparing aquatic exercises in sea water and water pool Six-month and one-year followup of 23 weeks of aerobic exercise for individuals with fibromyalgia. Assessment of the effects of aquatic therapy on global symptomatology in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Exercise, fibromyalgia, and fibrofog: a pilot study. A randomized, controlled trial of exercise and education for individuals with fibromyalgia. A controlled study of the effects of a supervised cardiovascular fitness training program on the manifestations of primary fibromyalgia. Long-term efficacy of therapy in patients with fibromyalgia: a physical exercise-based program and a cognitive-behavioral approach. Effects of concurrent strength and endurance training on physical fitness and symptoms in postmenopausal women with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Effects of a multiprofessional rehabilitation programme for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. High or low intensity aerobic fitness training in fibromyalgia: does it matter? The effects of exercise and education, individually or combined, in women with fibromyalgia. Six- and 24-month follow-up of pool exercise therapy and education for patients with fibromyalgia Effects of aerobic exercise versus stress management treatment in fibromyalgia. A 4.5 year prospective study. Investigation of the effects of pool-based exercise on fibromyalgia syndrome Exercise in waist-high warm water decreases pain and improves health-related quality of life and strength in the lower extremities in women with fibromyalgia. Utilizing exercise to affect the symptomology of fibromyalgia: a pilot study. Feasibility and effectiveness of an aerobic exercise program in children with fibromyalgia: results of a randomized controlled pilot trial. Hydrotherapy and conventional physiotherapy improve total sleep time and quality of life of fibromyalgia patients: randomized clinical trial. A randomized, controlled clinical trial of education and physical training for women with fibromyalgia. A randomized clinical trial comparing fitness and biofeedback training versus basic treatment in patients with fibromyalgia. Exercise in warm water decreases pain and improves cognitive function in middle-aged women with fibromyalgia. A randomized controlled trial of deep water running: clinical effectiveness of aquatic exercise to treat fibromyalgia. The effects of progressive strength training and aerobic exercise on muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness in women with fibromyalgia: a pilot study. Effect of a randomized, controlled trial of exercise on mood and physical function in individuals with fibromyalgia. Aquatic training and detraining on fitness and quality of life in fibromyalgia. An observer-blinded comparison of supervised and unsupervised aerobic exercise regimens in fibromyalgia. Maintenance of exercise in women with fibromyalgia. Effect of aerobic exercise on patients with primary fibromyalgia syndrome. Patients with Fibromyalgia Benefit from Aerobic Endurance Exercise Comparison of integrated group therapy and group relaxation training for fibromyalgia. Community patient education and exercise for people with fibromyalgia: a parallel group randomized controlled trial
abstract: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of aerobic training with a muscle-strengthening program in patients with fibromyalgia . Thirty women with fibromyalgia were r and omized to either an aerobic exercise ( AE ) program or a strengthening exercise ( SE ) program for 8 weeks . Outcome measures included the intensity of fibromyalgia-related symptoms , tender point count , fitness ( 6-min walk distance ) , hospital anxiety and depression ( HAD ) scale , and short-form health survey ( SF-36 ) . There were significant improvements in both groups regarding pain , sleep , fatigue , tender point count , and fitness after treatment . HAD-depression scores improved significantly in both groups while no significant change occurred in HAD-anxiety scores . Bodily pain subscale of SF-36 and physical component summary improved significantly in the AE group , whereas seven subscales of SF-36 , physical component summary , and mental component summary improved significantly in the SE group . When the groups were compared after treatment , there were no significant differences in pain , sleep , fatigue , tender point count , fitness , HAD scores , and SF-36 scores . AE and SE are similarly effective at improving symptoms , tender point count , fitness , depression , and quality of life in fibromyalgia OBJECTIVE A subset of fibromyalgia ( FM ) patients have a dysfunctional hypothalamic-pituitary-insulin-like growth factor 1 ( IGF-1 ) axis , as evidence d by low serum levels of IGF-1 and a reduced growth hormone ( GH ) response to physiologic stimuli . There is evidence that pyridostigmine ( PYD ) improves the acute response of GH to exercise in FM patients . The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of 6 months of PYD and group exercise on FM symptoms . METHODS FM patients were r and omized to 1 of the following 4 groups : PYD plus exercise , PYD plus diet recall but no exercise , placebo plus exercise , and placebo plus diet recall but no exercise . The primary outcome measures were the visual analog scale ( VAS ) score for pain , tender point count , and total myalgic score . Secondary outcome measures were the total score on the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) and FIQ VAS scores for individual symptoms ( fatigue , poor sleep , stiffness , and anxiety ) , as well as quality of life ( QOL ) and physical fitness ( lower body strength/endurance , upper and lower body flexibility , balance , and time on the treadmill ) . RESULTS A total of 165 FM patients completed baseline measurements ; 154 ( 93.3 % ) completed the study . The combination of PYD and exercise did not improve pain scores .  PYD groups showed a significant improvement in sleep and anxiety in those who completed the study and in QOL in those who complied with the therapeutic regimen as compared with the placebo groups . Compared with the nonexercise groups , the 2 exercise groups demonstrated improvement in fatigue and fitness .  PYD was generally well tolerated . CONCLUSION Neither the combination of PYD plus supervised exercise nor either treatment alone yielded improvement in most FM symptoms . However , PYD did improve anxiety and sleep , and exercise improved fatigue and fitness . We speculate that PYD may have improved vagal tone , thus benefiting sleep and anxiety ; this notion warrants further study OBJECTIVES To study the effect of a combination of thalassotherapy , exercise and patient education in people with fibromyalgia . METHODS Patients with fibromyalgia , selected from a rheumatology out-patient department and from members of the Dutch fibromyalgia patient association , were pre-r and omized to receive either 2(1/2 ) weeks of treatment in a Tunisian spa resort , including thalassotherapy , supervised exercise and group education ( active treatment ) or treatment as usual ( control treatment ) . Primary outcome measure was health-related quality of life , measured with the R AND -36 question naire . Secondary measures included the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire , the McGill Pain Question naire , the Beck Depression Inventory , tender point score and a 6-min treadmill walk test . RESULTS Fifty-eight participants receiving the active treatment reported significant improvement on R AND -36 physical and mental component summary scales . For physical health , differences from the 76 controls were statistically significant after 3 months , but not after 6 and 12 months . A similar pattern of temporary improvement was seen in the self-reported secondary measures . Tender point scores and treadmill walk tests improved more after active treatment , but did not reach significant between-group differences , except for walk tests after 12 months . CONCLUSIONS A combination of thalassotherapy , exercise and patient education may temporarily improve fibromyalgia symptoms and health-related quality of life Objectives : To assess the effectiveness of multidisciplinary rehabilitation in the treatment of fibromyalgia in comparison to st and ard medical care . Methods : Seventy-nine men and women were r and omly assigned to one of two groups . The intervention group consisted of a rheumatologist and physical therapist intake and discharge , 18 group supervised exercise therapy sessions , 2 group pain and stress management lectures , 1 group education lecture , 1 group dietary lecture , and 2 massage therapy sessions . The control group consisted of st and ard medical care with the patients ' family physician . Outcome measures included self-perceived health status , pain-related disability , average pain intensity , depressed mood , days in pain , hours in pain , prescription and nonprescription medication usage , and work status . Outcomes were measured at the end of the 6-week intervention and at 15-month follow-up . Results : Thirty-five out of 43 patients from the intervention group and 36 out of 36 patients from the control group completed the study . There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups prior to intervention . Intention-to-treat analysis revealed that the intervention group , in comparison to the control group , experienced statistically significant changes at intervention completion in self-perceived health status , average pain intensity , pain related disability , depressed mood , days in pain , and hours in pain , but no significant differences in nonprescription drug use , prescription drug use , or work status . At 15 months , all health outcomes retained their significance except health status . Nonprescription and prescription drug use demonstrated significant reductions at 15 months . Binary logistic regression indicated that long-term changes in Pain Disability Index were influenced by long-term exercise adherence and income status . Conclusions : Positive health-related outcomes in this mostly unresponsive condition can be obtained with a low-cost , group multidisciplinary intervention in a community-based , non clinical setting A quasi-experimental design was used to assess a multimodal pain treatment program for female patients with fibromyalgia to ascertain immediate and long-term effects .  Laboratory  and self-report pain measures together with  psychological measures were obtained from patients who were tested up to 6 months after treatment . Comparison data were also obtained from fibromyalgia patients who failed to qualify for the treatment program because of insurance coverage . Immediate and long-term treatment effects were evident with the psychological measures and the subjective pain measures but not with the laboratory pain measures . Participants who attended the month-long multimodal program achieved significant and positive changes on most of the outcome measures . However , relapse prevention must be addressed OBJECTIVE To evaluate the feasibility of 8 months of supervised exercise therapy in warm water and its effects on the impact of fibromyalgia on physical and mental health and physical fitness in affected women . METHODS Thirty women with fibromyalgia were r and omly assigned to an exercise therapy group ( n = 15 ) or a control group ( inactive ) ( n = 15 ) . The impact of fibromyalgia on physical and mental health was assessed using the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire and the anxiety state with State-Trait Anxiety Inventory . Physical fitness was measured using the following tests : Canadian Aerobic Fitness ; h and -grip dynamometry ; 10-metre walking ; 10-step stair-climbing and blind 1-leg stance . RESULTS After 8 months of training , the exercise therapy group improved compared with the control group in terms of physical function ( 20 % ) , pain ( 8 % ) , stiffness ( 53 % ) , anxiety ( 41 % ) , depression ( 27 % ) , Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire total scores ( 18 % ) , State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score ( 22 % ) , aerobic capacity ( 22 % ) , balance ( 30 % ) , functional capacity for walking ( 6 % ) , stair-climbing with no extra weight ( 14 % ) and stair-climbing 10 kg-weighted ( 25 % ) . CONCLUSION Eight months of supervised exercise in warm water was feasible and led to long-term improvements in physical and mental health in patients with fibromyalgia at a similar magnitude to those of shorter therapy programmes OBJECTIVE To compare 2 exercise modalities , aerobic fitness training and stretching exercises , in patients with fibromyalgia ( FM ) in relation to function , pain , quality of life , depression , and anxiety , and to correlate the cardiorespiratory fitness gain with symptom improvement . METHODS Seventy-six women with FM between 18 and 60 years old were r and omized to either an aerobic program or stretching program , for 20 weeks . They were evaluated at the beginning of the program and after 10 and 20 weeks in relation to the improvement of aerobic fitness , flexibility , function , Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , Short-form Health Survey ( SF-36 ) , and depression and anxiety levels . Ventilatory anaerobic threshold ( VT ) and maximum oxygen uptake ( VO2max ) were determined by expired gas analyses . RESULTS Aerobic exercise was superior to stretching in relation to VO2 max , VT , function , depression , pain , and the emotional aspects and mental health domains of SF-36 . Patients in the stretching group showed no improvement in depression , " role emotional , " and " mental health . " No association was noted between improvement in aerobic fitness as measured by VT and the improvement of pain , function , or scores in FIQ and SF-36 . CONCLUSION Our results confirm that aerobic exercise is beneficial to patients with FM , but the cardiorespiratory fitness gain is not related to improvement of FM symptoms OBJECTIVE To assess the utility of an exercise program , which included aerobic , flexibility and strengthening elements , in the treatment of fibromyalgia ( FM ) . FM is a chronic musculoskeletal condition characterized by diffuse musculoskeletal pain and aching . It has been suggested that aerobic exercise is helpful in its treatment . METHODS We studied 60 patients who met American College of Rheumatology criteria for FM and had no significant comorbidities . Measurements performed on each patient at the pre and post study assessment included the number of tender points ( TP ) , total myalgic scores ( TM ) , aerobic fitness ( AF ) , flexibility and isokinetic strength . After initial evaluation patients were r and omly assigned to either an exercise or a relaxation group . Each group met 3 times per week for 6 weeks for 1 h of supervised exercise or relaxation . All patients data were stored in a computerized data base and statistical analysis was performed on all pre and post study assessment s. RESULTS Thirty-eight patients ( 18 exercise and 20 relaxation ) completed the study . Analysis of our data showed no significant difference between the groups in their pre study assessment . Post study assessment s , however , showed a significant improvement between the exercise and relaxation groups in TP ( p < 0.05 ) , TM ( p < 0.05 ) , and AF ( p < 0.05 ) . Similar improvements were also found when the pre and post study assessment of the exercise group were compared . CONCLUSION Exercise is helpful in the management of FM in the short term . It also shows that FM patients can undertake an exercise program which includes aerobic , flexibility , and strength training exercises without adverse effects . The long term utility of this type of exercise requires further evaluation OBJECTIVE Treatment recommendations for fibromyalgia ( FM ) include regular physical exercise . In this prospect i ve study we examined predictors for adherence to stretching and aerobic exercises in women provided with an individualized home based program .  METHODS Thirty-nine women kept exercise diaries for 12 weeks . RESULTS For both types of exercise , women who were less physically fit at baseline engaged in more exercise during the program . Yet for stretching , more lower body pain at baseline predicted engaging in less stretching exercise over time , whereas for aerobic exercise , more baseline upper body pain predicted more exercise over time . As time passed , participants with higher baseline physical fitness and /or older age were reducing their aerobic exercise practice at significantly faster rates , as were those women with higher baseline stress . CONCLUSION Given that adequate levels of adherence were limited to about half of the participants for both types of exercise , steps to reduce barriers to exercise ( e.g. , stress ) need to be taken when prescribing exercise in the treatment of FM Objective : To evaluate the efficacy of a treatment programme for patients with fibromyalgia ( FM ) based on self management , using pool exercises and education . Methods : R and omised controlled trial with a 6 month follow up to evaluate an outpatient multidisciplinary programme ; 164 patients with FM were allocated to an immediate 6 week programme ( n = 84 ) or to a waiting list control group ( n = 80 ) . The main outcomes were changes in quality of life , functional consequences , patient satisfaction and pain , using a combination of patient question naires and clinical examinations . The question naires included the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , Psychological General Well-Being ( PGWB ) index , regional pain score diagrams , and patient satisfaction measures . Results : 61 participants in the treatment group and 68 controls completed the programme and 6 month follow up examinations . Six months after programme completion , significant improvements in quality of life and functional consequences of FM were seen in the treatment group as compared with the controls and as measured by scores on both the FIQ ( total score p = 0.025 ; fatigue p = 0.003 ; depression p = 0.031 ) and PGWB ( total score p = 0.032 ; anxiety p = 0.011 ; vitality p = 0.013 , ) . All four major areas of patient satisfaction showed greater improvement in the treatment than the control groups ; between-group differences were statistically significant for “ control of symptoms ” , “ psychosocial factors ” , and “ physical therapy ” No change in pain was seen . Conclusion : A 6 week self management based programme of pool exercises and education can improve the quality of life of patients with FM and their satisfaction with treatment . These improvements are sustained for at least 6 months after programme completion OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a 6-week traditional exercise program with supplementary whole-body vibration ( WBV ) in improving health status , physical functioning , and main symptoms of fibromyalgia ( FM ) in women with FM . METHODS Thirty-six ( 36 ) women with FM ( mean + /- st and ard error of the mean age 55.97 + /- 1.55 ) were r and omized into 3 treatment groups : exercise and vibration ( EVG ) , exercise ( EG ) , and control ( CG ) . Exercise therapy , consisting of aerobic activities , stretching , and relaxation techniques , was performed twice a week ( 90 min/day ) . Following each exercise session , the EVG underwent a protocol with WBV , whereas the EG performed the same protocol without vibratory stimulus . The Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) was administered at baseline and 6 weeks following the initiation of the treatments . Estimates of pain , fatigue , stiffness , and depression were also reported using the visual analogue scale . RESULTS A significant 3 x 2 ( group x time)-repeated measures analysis of variance interaction was found for pain ( p = 0.018 ) and fatigue ( p = 0.002 ) but not for FIQ ( p = 0.069 ) , stiffness ( p = 0.142 ) , or depression ( p = 0.654 ) . Pain and fatigue scores were significantly reduced from baseline in the EVG , but not in the EG or CG . In addition , the EVG showed significantly lower pain and fatigue scores at week 6 compared to the CG , whereas no significant differences were found between the EG and CG ( p > 0.05 ) . CONCLUSION Results suggest that a 6-week traditional exercise program with supplementary WBV safely reduces pain and fatigue , whereas exercise alone fails to induce improvements Introduction Physical therapy in warm water has been effective and highly recommended for persons with fibromyalgia , but its efficiency remains largely unknown . Should patients or health care managers invest in this therapy ? The aim of the current study was to assess the cost-utility of adding an aquatic exercise programme to the usual care of women with fibromyalgia . Methods Costs to the health care system and to society were considered in this study that included 33 participants , r and omly assigned to the experimental group ( n = 17 ) or a control group ( n = 16 ) . The intervention in the experimental group consisted of a 1-h , supervised , water-based exercise sessions , three times per week for 8 months . The main outcome measures were the health care costs and the number of quality -adjusted life-years ( QALYs ) using the time trade-off elicitation technique from the EuroQol EQ-5D instrument . Sensitivity analyses were performed for variations in staff salary , number of women attending sessions and time spent going to the pool . The cost effectiveness acceptability curves were created using a non-parametric bootstrap technique . Results The mean incremental treatment costs exceeded those for usual care per patient by € 517 for health care costs and € 1,032 for societal costs . The mean incremental QALY associated with the intervention was 0.131 ( 95 % CI : 0.011 to 0.290 ) . Each QALY gained in association with the exercise programme cost an additional € 3,947/QALY ( 95 % CI : 1,782 to 47,000 ) for a health care perspective and € 7,878/QALY ( 3,559 to 93,818 ) from a societal perspective . The curves showed a 95 % probability that the addition of the water-based programme is a cost-effective strategy if the ceiling of inversion is € 14,200/QALY from a health care perspective and € 28,300/QALY from a societal perspective . Conclusion The addition of an aquatic exercise programme to the usual care regime for fibromyalgia in women  is cost effective in terms of both health care costs and societal costs . However , the characteristics of facilities ( distance from the patients ' homes and number of patients that can be accommo date d per session ) are major determinants to consider before investing in such a programme . Trial registration Current controlled trials IS RCT N53367487 Abstract Objectives : To evaluate cardiovascular fitness exercise in people with fibromyalgia Design : R and omised controlled trial Setting : Hospital rheumatology out patients .  Group based classes took place at a “ healthy living centre . ” Participants : 132 patients with fibromyalgia . Interventions : Prescribed grade d aerobic exercise ( active treatment ) and relaxation and flexibility ( control treatment ) . Main outcome measures : Participants ' self assessment of improvement , tender point count , impact of condition measured by fibromyalgia impact question naire , and short form McGill pain question naire . Results : Compared with relaxation exercise led to significantly more participants rating themselves as much or very much better at three months : 24/69 ( 35 % ) v 12/67 ( 18 % ) , P=0.03 . Benefits were maintained or improved at one year follow up when fewer participants in the exercise group fulfilled the criteria for fibromyalgia ( 31/69 v 44/67 , P=0.01 ) . Peoplein the exercise group also had greater reductions in tender point counts ( 4.2 v 2.0 , P=0.02 ) and in scores on the fibromyalgia impact question naire ( 4.0 v 0.6 , P=0.07 ) . Conclusions : Prescribed grade d aerobic exercise is a simple , cheap , effective , and potentially widely available treatment for fibromyalgia OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of biofeedback/relaxation , exercise , and a combined program for the treatment of  fibromyalgia . METHODS Subjects ( n = 119 ) were r and omly assigned to one of 4 groups : 1 ) biofeedback/relaxation training , 2 ) exercise training , 3 ) a combination treatment , or 4 ) an educational/attention control program . RESULTS All 3 treatment groups produced improvements in self-efficacy for function relative to the control condition . In addition , all treatment groups were significantly different from the control group on tender point index scores , reflecting a modest deterioration by the attention control group rather than improvements by the treatment groups . The exercise and combination groups also result ed in modest improvements on a physical activity measure . The combination group best maintained benefits across the 2-year period . CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that these 3 treatment interventions result in improved self-efficacy for physical function which was best maintained by the combination group BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The purpose s of this study were : ( 1 ) to assess the effectiveness of a 16-week progressive program of home-based , videotape-based , low-impact aerobic exercise on physical function and signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia in previously sedentary women aged 20 to 55 years and ( 2 ) to compare the effects of 1 long exercise bout versus 2 short exercise bouts per training day ( fractionation ) on physical function , signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia , and exercise adherence . SUBJECTS One hundred forty-three sedentary women were r and omly assigned to 1 of 3 groups : a group who trained using a long bout of exercise ( LBE group , n=51 ) , a group who trained using short bouts of exercise ( SBE group , n=56 ) , and a group who performed no exercise ( NE group , n=36 ) . METHODS The SBE group exercised twice daily , and the LBE group worked out once daily . Both groups progressed in total daily training duration from 10 to 30 minutes , 3 to 5 times a week , for 16 weeks . Physical and psychological well-being , symptoms , and self-efficacy were evaluated using a multivariate analysis of variance . RESULTS Dropout rates for the NE , SBE , and LBE groups were 14 % , 38 % , and 29 % , respectively . The NE group differed from the LBE group in disease severity , self-efficacy , and psychological well-being ( midtest , efficacy analysis ) and from the SBE group in disease severity and self-efficacy ( posttest , efficacy analysis ) . Exercise adherence was greater for the LBE group than for the SBE group between weeks 5 and 8 of the training program . No other differences between exercise groups were found . DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Progressive , home-based , low-impact aerobics improved physical function and fibromyalgia symptoms minimally in participants who completed at least two thirds of the recommended exercise . Fractionation of exercise training provided no advantage in terms of exercise adherence , improvements in fibromyalgia symptoms or physical function . High attrition rates and problems with exercise adherence were experienced in both exercise groups BACKGROUND Self-management has increasingly been recommended as part of st and ard care for fibromyalgia , a common , poorly understood condition with limited treatment options . Data that assess popular self-management recommendations are scarce . We evaluated and compared the effectiveness of 4 common self-management treatments on function , symptoms , and self-efficacy in women with fibromyalgia . METHODS A total of 207 women with confirmed fibromyalgia were recruited from September 16 , 2002 , through November 30 , 2004 , and r and omly assigned to 16 weeks of ( 1 ) aerobic and flexibility exercise ( AE ) ; ( 2 ) strength training , aerobic , and flexibility exercise ( ST ) ; ( 3 ) the Fibromyalgia Self-Help Course ( FSHC ) ; or ( 4 ) a combination of ST and FSHC ( ST-FSHC ) . The primary outcome was change in physical function from baseline to completion of the intervention . Secondary outcomes included social and emotional function , symptoms , and self-efficacy . RESULTS Improvements in the mean Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire score in the 4 groups were -12.7 for the ST-FSHC group , -8.2 for the AE group , -6.6 for the ST group , and -0.3 for the FSHC group . The ST-FSHC group demonstrated greater improvement than the FSHC group ( mean difference , -12.4 ; 95 % confidence interval [ CI ] , -23.1 to -1.7 ) . The ST-FSHC ( mean difference , 13.6 ; 95 % CI , 2.3 to 24.9 ) and AE ( mean difference , 13.1 ; 95 % CI , 1.6 to 25.6 ) groups had similar improvements in physical function scores on the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey . Bodily pain scores on the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey improved in the ST-FSHC ( 14.8 ) , AE ( 13.2 ) , and ST ( 5.7 ) groups . Social function , mental health , fatigue , depression , and self-efficacy also improved . The beneficial effect on physical function of exercise alone and in combination with education persisted at 6 months . CONCLUSIONS Progressive walking , simple strength training movements , and stretching activities improve functional status , key symptoms , and self-efficacy in women with fibromyalgia actively being treated with medication . The benefits of exercise are enhanced when combined with targeted self-management education . Our findings suggest that appropriate exercise and patient education be included in the treatment of fibromyalgia UNLABELLED Aging of the worldwide population is a concern of most governmental entities , spanning practically all areas of prevention and rehabilitation . Aging leads to physiological alterations that result in adverse social and financial effects . There is a trend to emphasize prevention , which is less expensive and socially more desirable than therapeutic intervention . PURPOSE To assess the effect of a program of aquatic versus non-aquatic respiratory exercises on respiratory muscle strength in healthy aged persons . METHODS The respiratory muscle strength was measured in 81 subjects between 60 and 65 years , 59 of which completed the program . Subjects were r and omized into 3 groups . G(aquatic ) undertook a program of respiratory exercise in an aquatic environment . G(non-aquatic ) undertook the same program in a non-aquatic environment . G(control ) acted as the negative control . Programs were applied three times a week for 10 consecutive weeks . Subsequently , subjects were reevaluated , and results compared to each individual 's pre-treatment own result and between the groups . The data were statistically analyzed using the paired t test and the Sign test . Comparisons between the groups were performed through parametric and nonparametric variance . A comparison of G(aquatic ) and G(non-aquatic ) versus G(control ) was performed using the Dunnett test . RESULTS A significant improvement in the inspiratory muscle strength in the G(aquatic ) group compared to the G(control ) , group was found , suggesting beneficial effects mediated by the aquatic exercise . The expiratory muscles did not show significant alterations . CONCLUSION Aquatic respiratory exercise improves the inspiratory muscle strength of healthy aged persons . However , neither aquatic nor non-aquatic respiratory exercise influences the expiratory muscle strength OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of 6 months of pool exercise combined with a 6 session education program for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome ( FM ) . METHODS The study population comprised 58 patients , r and omized to a treatment or a control group . Patients were instructed to match the pool exercises to their threshold of pain and fatigue . The education focused on strategies for coping with symptoms and encouragement of physical activity . The primary outcome measurements were the total score of the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) and the 6 min walk test , recorded at study start and after 6 mo . Several other tests and instruments assessing functional limitations , severity of symptoms , disabilities , and quality of life were also applied . RESULTS Significant differences between the treatment group and the control group were found for the FIQ total score ( p = 0.017 ) and the 6 min walk test ( p < 0.0001 ) . Significant differences were also found for physical function , grip strength , pain severity , social functioning , psychological distress , and quality of life . CONCLUSION The results suggest that a 6 month program of exercises in a temperate pool combined with education will improve the consequences of FM The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in water pool compared with aerobic exercise performed in sea by women with fibromyalgia ( FM ) . A total of 46 patients were r and omly allocated into two groups : pool group ( 23 patients ) and sea group ( 23 patients ) that performed the same aerobic exercise program . Patients were evaluated baseline and after 12 weeks using : VAS , number of tender points , FIQ , SF-36 , PSQI , and BDI . Both groups improved significantly in post-treatment for all the evaluated variables . There were no significant differences between two groups , except for BDI ( F = 2.418 , P < 0.0001 ) . Aerobic exercise program performed in water ( pool or sea ) was effective for patients with FM . However , sea water exercises have been shown to bring more advantages related to emotional aspects . Then , exercise performed sea water ( thalassotherapy ) is an option for effective treatment with low cost for patients with FM OBJECTIVE To measure mood and physical function of individuals with fibromyalgia , 6 and 12 months following 23 weeks of supervised aerobic exercise . METHODS This is a followup report of individuals who were previously enrolled in 23 weeks of l and -based and water-based aerobic exercise classes .  Outcomes included the 6-minute walk test , Beck Depression Inventory ( BDI ) , State-Trait Anxiety Inventory , Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale ( ASES ) , Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , tender point count , patient global assessment score , and exercise compliance . Outcomes were measured at the start and end of the exercise classes and 6 and 12 months later . RESULTS Analyses were conducted on 29 ( intent-to-treat ) or 18 ( efficacy ) subjects .  Six-minute walk distances and BDI total scores were improved at followup ( all analyses ) . BDI cognitive/affective scores were improved at the end of 23 weeks of exercise ( both analyses ) and at the 12-month followup ( efficacy analysis only ) . BDI somatic scores were improved at 6-month ( both analyses ) and 12-month followup ( intent-to-treat only ) . FIQ and ASES function were improved at all followup points . ASES pain was improved in efficacy analyses only ( all followup points ) . Tender points were unchanged after 23 weeks of exercise and at followup . Exercise duration at followup ( total minutes of aerobic plus anaerobic exercise in the preceding week ) was related to gains in physical function ( 6- and 12-month followup ) and mood ( 6-month followup ) . CONCLUSION Exercise can improve physical function , mood , symptom severity , and aspects of self efficacy for at least 12 months . Exercising at followup was related to improvements in physical function and perhaps mood OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects of a 16-week exercise therapy in a chest-high pool of warm water through applicable tests in the clinical practice on the global symptomatology of women with fibromyalgia ( FM ) and to determine exercise adherence levels . DESIGN A r and omized controlled trial . SETTING Testing and training were completed at the university . PARTICIPANTS Middle-aged women with FM ( n=60 ) and healthy women ( n=25 ) . INTERVENTION A 16-week aquatic training program , including strength training , aerobic training , and relaxation exercises . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Tender point count ( syringe calibrated ) , health status ( Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ) ; sleep quality ( Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index ) ; physical ( endurance strength to low loads tests ) , psychologic ( State Anxiety Inventory ) , and cognitive function ( Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task ) ; and adherence 12 months after the completion of the study . RESULTS For all the measurements , the patients showed significant deficiencies compared with the healthy subjects . Efficacy analysis ( n=29 ) and intent-to-treat analysis ( n=34 ) of the exercise therapy was effective in decreasing the tender point count and improving sleep quality , cognitive function , and physical function . Anxiety remained unchanged during the follow-up . The exercise group had a significant improvement of health status , not associated exclusively with the exercise intervention . There were no changes in the control group . Twenty-three patients in the exercise group were exercising regularly 12 months after completing the program . CONCLUSIONS An exercise therapy 3 times a week for 16 weeks in a warm pool could improve most of the symptoms of FM and cause a high adherence to exercise in unfit women with heightened FM symptomatology . The therapeutic intervention 's effects can be assessed through applicable tests in the clinical practice BACKGROUND This pilot study was design ed to test the efficacy of a physical activity program for improving psychological variables and fibromyalgia syndrome ( FMS ) symptoms and to provide preliminary evidence regarding the effects on perceived cognitive symptoms and objective ly measured cognitive performance by FMS patients . METHODS Sixteen women diagnosed with FMS were r and omly assigned to an 18-week physical activity program or to a control condition .  Psychological measures , FMS symptoms , perceived cognitive function , objective measures of cognition , and walking capacity were assessed at baseline and posttest . RESULTS At posttest , there were significant differences in fatigue ( effect size , ES=1.86 ) , depression ( ES=1.27 ) , FMS symptoms ( ES=1.56 ) , self-reported cognitive symptoms ( ES=1.19 ) , and delayed recall performance ( ES=1.16 ) between the physically active group and the control group , indicating that the FMS patients benefited from physical activity . Beneficial effects were also observed for 6 of the 7 objective measures of cognition and ranged from small to large ( ESs=0.26 to 1.06 ) . CONCLUSIONS Given that all FMS patients do not respond well to conventional treatments , these beneficial effects of physical activity are important . Future studies with larger sample s are warranted to test the reliability of the findings for the objective measures of cognition OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of a 6-week exercise and educational program for patients with fibromyalgia . METHODS Forty-one subjects were r and omly assigned to the program or served as waiting list controls . Program outcome was assessed with a 6-minute walk test , the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire , a Self-Efficacy Scale , and a " knowledge " question naire ( based on information provided during the educational sessions ) . Waiting list control subjects subsequently completed the program . Program outcome was reassessed 3 or 6 months post-program . RESULTS The program produced significant improvements in 6-minute walk distance , well-being , fatigue , self-efficacy ( for controlling pain and other symptoms ) , and knowledge . At followup , immediate gains in walk distance , well-being , and self-efficacy were maintained , but gains in fatigue and knowledge were lost . CONCLUSION Short-term exercise and educational programs can produce immediate and sustained benefits for patients with fibromyalgia . The benefits of our program may be due to exercise or education since both interventions were given Forty-two patients with primary fibromyalgia were r and omized into a 20-week program consisting of either cardiovascular fitness ( CVR ) training or simple flexibility exercises ( FLEX ) that did not lead to enhanced cardiovascular fitness . Patients were supervised by the same medical fitness instructors . Patients in neither group had contact with members of the other group , and were blinded as to the exercise taught to the alternative group . Groups met for 60 minutes 3 times each week . The compliance rate was 90 % . Thirty-eight patients completed the study ( 18 with CVR training and 20 with FLEX ) . Blind assessment s ( st and ardized in preliminary trials to achieve acceptable inter-rater agreement ) were performed by the same 2 examiners . After 20 weeks , patients receiving CVR training showed significantly improved cardiovascular fitness scores compared with those receiving FLEX training ( t[35 ] = -4.22 , P less than 0.003 ) . Logistic regression analysis showed clinical ly and statistically significant improvements in pain threshold scores , which were measured directly over fibrositic tender points , in patients undergoing CVR ( t[35 ] = 2.21 , P less than 0.04 ) . There was also a trend toward improvement in pain scores ( visual analog scale ) in the CVR group , but this did not reach statistical significance . There was no improvement in the percentage of body area affected by fibrositic symptoms or the number of nights per week or hours per night of disturbed sleep ( self-report inventories ) . However , compared with the FLEX group , the CVR-trained patients improved significantly in both patient and physician global assessment scores . ( ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS OBJECTIVE To analyze the long-term efficacy of 2 interventions for female fibromyalgia ( FM ) patients : 1 ) cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT ) , and 2 ) a physical exercise (PE)-based strategy . METHODS We conducted a prospect i ve , long-term , r and omized , parallel clinical trial . The outcome variables are physical activity , aerobic capacity , and results of the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , Short Form 36 , Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventory , Chronic Pain Self-Efficacy Scale , and Chronic Pain Coping Inventory . All were measured at baseline , posttreatment , 6 months , and 1 year . The duration of both treatments was 8 weeks . RESULTS Some items of the FIQ and some strategies to cope with pain improved significantly in both groups after treatment . All variables measuring functional capacity improved significantly in the PE group , whereas only physical activity of the vertebral column improved in the CBT group . There were no differences in anxiety , depression , and self efficacy after treatment in either group . After 1 year of followup , most of the parameters had returned to baseline values in both groups . However , in the PE group , functional capacity remained significantly better . CONCLUSIONS PE and CBT improve clinical manifestations in FM patients only for short periods of time . Improvement in self efficacy and physical fitness are not associated with improvement in clinical manifestations OBJECTIVE To examine the effectiveness of concurrent strength and endurance training on muscle strength , aerobic and functional performance , and symptoms in postmenopausal women with fibromyalgia ( FM ) . DESIGN R and omized controlled trial . SETTING Local gym and university research laboratory . PARTICIPANTS Twenty-six women with FM . INTERVENTION Progressive and supervised 21-week concurrent strength and endurance training . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Muscle strength of leg extensors , upper extremities , and trunk ; peak oxygen uptake ( Vo(2)peak ) , maximal workload ( Wmax ) , and work time ; 10-m walking and 10-step stair-climbing time and self-reported functional capacity ( Health Assessment Question naire ) ; and symptoms of FM . RESULTS After concurrent strength and endurance training , the groups differed significantly in Wmax ( P=.001 ) , work time ( P=.001 ) , concentric leg extension force ( P=.043 ) , walking ( P=.001 ) and stair-climbing ( P<.001 ) time , and fatigue ( P=.038 ) . The training led to an increase of 10 % ( P=.004 ) in Wmax and 13 % ( P=.004 ) in work time on the bicycle but no change in Vo(2)peak . CONCLUSIONS Concurrent strength and endurance training in low to moderate volume improves the muscle strength of leg extensors , Wmax , work time , and functional performance as well as perceived symptoms , fatigue in particular . Concurrent strength and endurance training is beneficial to postmenopausal women with FM without adversities , but more extensive studies are needed to confirm the results The present study sought to evaluate the efficacy of a 12-week multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme mainly emphasizing physiotherapy , for patients with either fibromyalgia syndrome or chronic , widespread pain . Forty-three non-r and omized female patients with fibromyalgia syndrome or chronic , widespread pain were assigned to the programme or served as waiting-list controls . The outcome was assessed with the Body Awareness Scale-Health , the Multidimensional Pain Inventory , the Quality of Life Scale , the Visual Analogue Scale and a pain drawing . Both groups were reassessed after 3 and 6 months , the treatment group also after 1 year . The treatment group improved in quality of movement and in vegetative disturbances according to the Body Awareness Scale-Health after the programme . At the 3-month and 1-year follow-ups the improvements were partly sustained . The control group showed deterioration after 3 and 6 months in three of the main scales of the Body Awareness Scale-Health . This clinical trial of a rehabilitation programme , proved beneficial for improving quality of movement and reducing the experience of vegetative disturbances OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy of training in fibromyalgia ( FM ) , we compared the effects of high intensity fitness training ( HIF ) and low intensity fitness training ( LIF ) . METHODS Thirty-seven female patients with FM were r and omly allocated to either a HIF group ( n = 19 ) or a LIF group ( n = 18 ) . Four patients ( 1 HIF group , 3 LIF group ) refused to participate after r and omization but before the start of the intervention . They were excluded from the analysis . Assessment s were performed at baseline and after 20 weeks of HIF or LIF . The primary outcome was patient 's global assessment [ on 100 mm visual analog scale ( VAS ) ] . Secondary endpoints were pain , number of tender points , total myalgic score , physical fitness , health status , and psychological distress . RESULTS One patient in the HIF group ( n = 18 ) and 2 in the LIF group ( n = 15 ) stopped training sessions during the course of the study . Nine of 18 patients in the HIF group compared to 8 of 15 patients in the LIF group achieved a participation rate of 67 % or more . Most important reasons for nonadherence were postexercise pain and fatigue , time consumption , and stress . The VAS for global well being improved slightly from 64 to 56 mm in the HIF group , and did not change in the LIF group ( 58 to 61 mm ) ( p = 0.07 ) . The Wmax ( physical fitness ) changed modestly from 110 to 123 watt in the HIF group , and from 97 to 103 watt in the LIF group ( p = 0.3 ) . VAS for pain increased from 53 to 64 mm in the HIF group and from 52 to 54 mm in the LIF group . The large st and ard deviations around mean change in global assessment s , number of tender points , total myalgic score , and psychological distress ( by SCL-90 ) severely influenced the power to detect within- and between-group differences . Analysis limited to those patients who accomplished a high attendance rate ( > 67 % ) showed similar results . CONCLUSION High intensity physical fitness training compared to low intensity physical fitness training leads to only modest improvements in physical fitness and general well being in patients with FM , and does not positively affect psychological status and general health OBJECTIVE To examine the effectiveness of a supervised aerobic exercise program , a self-management education program , and the combination of exercise and education for women with fibromyalgia ( FM ) . METHODS One hundred fifty-two women were r and omized into one of 4 groups : exercise-only , education-only , exercise and education , or control . The duration of the study was 12 weeks . All subjects were analyzed at 3 times : before study , immediately upon completion , and 3 months after completion of the intervention program on measures of disability , self-efficacy , fitness , tender point count , and tender point tenderness .  Of the 152 women , complete data were available for 95 and 69 who complied with the protocol . In order to determine the group time interaction , a 2 way analysis of variance with repeated measures was used for each measure . RESULTS The only significant group time interaction was reported with the compliance analysis for the Self-Efficacy Coping with Other Symptoms subscale and the Six Minute Walk . If the program was followed , the combination of a supervised exercise program and group education provided persons with FM with a better sense of control over their symptoms . Fitness improved in the 2 groups undergoing supervised aerobic exercise programs . However , the improvement in fitness was maintained at followup in the exercise-only group and not the combined group . Conclusion . Subjects receiving the combination of exercise and education and who complied with the treatment protocol improved their perceived ability to cope with other symptoms . In addition , a supervised exercise program increased walking distance at post-test , an increase that was maintained at followup in the exercise-only group . Results demonstrate the challenges with conducting exercise and education studies in persons with FM Objective . To follow patients with fibromyalgia six and 24 months after they finished a six-month treatment programme . The programme comprised pool exercise therapy , adjusted to the patients ' limitations , and education based on their health problems . Methods . Twenty-six patients were examined six and 24 months after the completion of the treatment programme  with the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , SF-36 , the 6-minute walk test , and the Grippit measure . The values obtained at the follow-up examinations were compared with the baseline and post-treatment values . Results . As compared with baseline , symptom severity ( FIQ , SF-36 ) , physical function ( FIQ , SF-36 , 6-minute walk test ) and quality of life ( SF-36 ) still showed improvements six months after the completion of treatment ( p<0.05 ) . Pain ( FIQ , SF-36 ) , fatigue ( FIQ , SF-36 ) , walking ability , and social function ( SF-36 ) still showed improvements 2 years after the completion of the programme as compared with the baseline values ( p<0.05 ) . No significant changes were found for these variables , when the values obtained at the two follow-up examinations were compared with those of the post-treatment examination . Conclusions . Improvements in symptom severity , physical function and social function were still found six and 24 months after the completed treatment programme To determine and compare short- and long-term effects of aerobic exercise ( AE ) , stress management treatment ( SMT ) , and treatment-as-usual ( TAU ) in fibromyalgia , 60 patients were r and omized to 14 weeks of treatment by either AE , SMT or TAU . Outcome measures at baseline , midway through treatment , at treatment completion , and at 4 year follow up included a patient made drawing of pain distribution , dolorimetry of tender points , ergometer cycle test , global subjective improvement , and VAS registration s of : pain , disturbed sleep , lack of energy , and depression . Both AE and SMT showed positive short-term effects .  AE was the overall most effective treatment , despite being subject to the most sceptical patient attitude prior to the study . At follow up , there were no obvious group differences in symptom severity , which for AE seemed to be due to a considerable compliance problem Objective The aim of this study was to compare pool-based exercise and balneotherapy in fibromyalgia syndrome ( FMS ) patients . Methods Fifty female patients diagnosed with FMS according to the American College of Rheumatism ( ACR ) criteria were r and omly assigned to two groups : group 1 ( n=25 ) with pool-based exercise , and in group 2 ( n=25 ) balneotherapy was applied in the same pool without any exercise for 35 min three times a week for 12 weeks . In both groups , pre- ( week 0 ) and post-treatment ( weeks 12 and 24 ) evaluation was performed by one of the authors , who was blind to the patient group . Evaluation parameters included pain , morning stiffness , sleep , tender points , global evaluation by the patient and the physician , fibromyalgia impact question naire , chair test , and Beck depression inventory . Statistical analysis was done on data collected from three evaluation stages . Results Twenty-four exercise and 22 balneotherapy patients completed the study . Pretreatment ( week 0 ) measurements did not show any difference between the groups . In group 1 , statistically significant improvement was observed in all parameters ( P<0.01 ) except for the chair test at both weeks 12 and 24 . In group 2 , week 12 measurements showed significant improvement in all parameters ( P<0.01 ) except for the chair test and Beck depression inventory . Week 24 evaluation results in group 2 showed significant improvements in pain and fatigue according to visual analogue scale ( VAS ) , 5-point scale , number of tender points , algometric and myalgic scores , and patient and physician global evaluation ( P<0.01 and P<0.05 , respectively ) , while improvements were nonsignificant in morning stiffness , sleep , fibromyalgia impact question naire ( FIQ ) , chair test , and Beck depression inventory parameters in this group . Comparison of the two groups based on the post-treatment ( weeks 12 and 24 ) percent changes and difference scores relative to pretreatment ( week 0 ) values failed to show a significant difference between the groups for any parameter except Beck depression inventory ( P<0.01 ) . Conclusion The results of our study showed that pool-based exercise had a longer-lasting effect on some of the FMS symptoms , but statistical analysis failed to show a significant superiority of pool-based exercise over balneotherapy without exercise . While we believe that exercise is a gold st and ard in FMS treatment , we also suggest in light of our results that balneotherapy is among the valid treatment options in FMS , and further research regarding the type and duration of the exercise programs is necessary OBJECTIVE To evaluate the short- and long-term efficacy of exercise therapy in a warm , waist-high pool in women with fibromyalgia . METHODS Thirty-four women ( mean + /- SD tender points 17 + /- 1 ) were r and omly assigned to either an exercise group ( n = 17 ) to perform 3 weekly sessions of training including aerobic , proprioceptive , and strengthening exercises during 12 weeks , or to a control group ( n = 17 ) . Maximal unilateral isokinetic strength was measured in the knee extensors and flexors in concentric and eccentric actions at 60 degrees /second and 210 degrees /second , and in the shoulder abductors and adductors in concentric contractions .  Health-related quality of life ( HRQOL ) was assessed using the EQ-5D question naire ; pain was assessed on a visual analog scale . All were measured at baseline , posttreatment , and after 6 months . RESULTS The strength of the knee extensors in concentric actions increased by 20 % in both limbs after the training period , and these improvements were maintained after the de-training period in the exercise group . The strength of other muscle actions measured did not change . HRQOL improved by 93 % ( P = 0.007 ) and pain was reduced by 29 % ( P = 0.012 ) in the exercise group during the training , but pain returned close to the pretraining level during the subsequent de-training . However , there were no changes in the control group during the entire period . CONCLUSION The therapy relieved pain and improved HRQOL and muscle strength in the lower limbs at low velocity in patients with initial low muscle strength and high number of tender points . Most of these improvements were maintained long term UNLABELLED Fibromyalgia ( FM ) , a rheumatological disorder of unknown origin , is characterized by both physical and psychological symptoms . Although inconclusive results have been reported for most treatment modalities , exercise appears to have universal support for decreasing the myriad of symptoms associated with FM . Weaknesses in the literature , however , prevent conclusive statements regarding exercise prescription and concomitant impact on FM symptomology . PURPOSE The current pilot study attempted to examine the effect of a 24-wk walking program at predetermined intensities on FM . METHODS Initial design was a r and omized control trial with  high- and low-intensity exercise groups  , and a control group . Subsequent nonr and omized control trials were based on actual exercise behavior . RESULTS No differences between initial groups were identified . By collapsing groups , heart rate ( HR ) decreased ( P < 0.05 ) weeks 0 - 12 . Functional impairments were reduced 54 % weeks 0 - 24 , with exercise having a large impact ( omega2 = 0.30 ) on this decrease . By reassigning groups , impact of FM on current health status decreased in the low-intensity group ( P < 0.05 ) and increased in the high-intensity group ( P < 0.02 ) weeks 0 - 24 . Omega squared indicated strong influence of exercise on pain ( omega2 = 0.51 ) , with greater pain in the high-intensity group . CONCLUSIONS A larger number of subjects and direct supervision of the training program to increase compliance is necessary to clarify the effects of a walking program on the manifestations of FM . Results indicate that intensity of the walking program is an important consideration . Individuals with FM can adhere to low-intensity walking programs two to three times per week , possibly reducing FM impact on daily activities OBJECTIVE To determine the feasibility of conducting a r and omized controlled trial of a 12-week exercise intervention in children with fibromyalgia ( FM ) and to explore the effectiveness of aerobic exercise on physical fitness , function , pain , FM symptoms , and quality of life ( QOL ) . METHODS FM patients ages 8 - 18 years were r and omized to a 12-week exercise intervention of either aerobics or qigong . Both groups participated in 3 weekly training sessions . Program adherence and safety were monitored at each session . Data were collected at 3 testing sessions , 2 prior to and 1 after the intervention , and included FM symptoms , function , pain , QOL , and fitness measures . RESULTS Thirty patients participated in the trial . Twenty-four patients completed the program ; 4 patients dropped out prior to training and 2 dropped out of the aerobics program . Better adherence was reported in the aerobics group than in the qigong group ( 67 % versus 61 % ) . Significant improvements in physical function , functional capacity , QOL , and fatigue were observed in the aerobics group . Anaerobic function , tender point count , pain , and symptom severity improved similarly in both groups . CONCLUSION It is feasible to conduct an exercise intervention trial in children with FM . Children with FM tolerate moderate-intensity exercise without exacerbation of their disease . Significant improvements in physical function , FM symptoms , QOL , and pain were demonstrated in both exercise groups ; the aerobics group performed better in several measures compared with the qigong group . Future studies may need larger sample sizes to confirm clinical improvement and to detect differences in fitness in childhood FM OBJECTIVE To compare hydrotherapy ( HT ) and conventional physiotherapy ( CP ) in the treatment of fibromyalgia ( FM ) , regarding quality of life ( QOL ) , total sleep time ( TST ) , and total nap time ( TNT ) . METHODS Fifty out patients , all female , 30 - 60 years old , diagnosed with FM , were r and omly assigned to two groups to carry out 3 weeks of treatment with HT or CP . In the beginning and in the end of treatment , patients were evaluated with the SF-36 question naire to measure QOL and the sleep diary for TST and TNT . Data analyses were blind . RESULTS All 24 HT patients increased 1h in TST compared to 19 CP patients . TNT decreased in the HT group . QOL improved for the two groups in all domains when pre- and post-intervention were compared , but there was no difference between groups . CONCLUSION HT is more effective than CP to improve TST and to decrease TNT in FM patients OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of self-management education and physical training in decreasing fibromyalgia ( FMS ) symptoms and increasing physical and psychological well being . METHODS A pretest-posttest control group design was used . Ninety-nine women with FMS were r and omly assigned to 1 of 3 groups ; 86 completed the study . The education only group received a 6-week self-management course . The education plus physical training group received the course and 6 h of training design ed to assist them to exercise independently . The control group got treatment after 3 months . RESULTS The experimental programs had a significant positive impact on quality of life and self-efficacy . Helplessness , number of days feeling bad , physical dysfunction , and pain in the tender points decreased significantly in one or both of the treated groups when retested 6 weeks after the end of the program . Longterm followup of 67 treated subjects showed significant positive changes on the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire primarily in the physical training group . Among all subjects , 87 % were exercising at least 3 times/week for 20 min or more ; 46 % said they had increased their exercise level since participating in the program ; 70 % were practicing relaxation strategies as needed ; 46 % were working at least half time as opposed to 37 % at pretest . CONCLUSION Self-efficacy of the treated groups was enhanced significantly by the program . Other changes were smaller and more delayed than had been expected . Recommendations for future trials include a longer education program , more vigorous physical training , and longterm followup OBJECTIVE To compare the therapeutic effects of physical fitness training or biofeedback training with the results of usual care in patients with fibromyalgia ( FM ) . METHODS One hundred forty-three female patients with FM ( American College of Rheumatology criteria ) were r and omized into 3 groups : a fitness program ( n = 58 ) , biofeedback training ( n = 56 ) , or controls ( n = 29 ) . Half the patients in the active treatment groups also received an educational program aim ed at improving compliance . Assessment s were done at baseline and after 24 weeks . The primary outcome was pain [ visual analog scale ( VAS ) ] . Other endpoints were the number of tender points , total myalgic score ( dolorimetry ) , physical fitness , functional ability ( Arthritis Impact Measurement Scale and Sickness Impact Profile ) , psychological distress ( Symptom Checklist-90-Revised ) , patient global assessment ( 5 point scale ) , and general fatigue ( VAS ) . RESULTS Baseline scores were similar in all 3 groups . Altogether 25 ( 17.5 % ) patients dropped out ; they were similarly distributed over all groups : 14 patients after r and omization and 11 ( 8 % ) during the study . A true high impact level for fitness training was not attained by any patient . After treatment , no significant differences in change scores of any outcome were found between the groups ( ANOVA , p > 0.05 ) . All outcome measures showed large variations intra- and interindividually . The educational program did not result in higher compliance with training sessions ( 62 % vs 71 % ) . Analysis of the subgroup of subjects with a high attendance rate ( > 67 % ) also showed no improvement . CONCLUSION In terms of training intensity and maximal heart rates , the high impact fitness intervention had a low impact benefit . Therefore effectiveness of high impact physical fitness training can not be demonstrated . Thus compared to usual care , the fitness training ( i.e. , low impact ) and biofeedback training had no clear beneficial effects on objective or subjective patient outcomes in patients with FM OBJECTIVES To compare the cognitive function performance in patients with fibromyalgia ( FM ) with respect healthy controls and to evaluate the short-term efficacy of exercise therapy in a warm , chest-high pool on pain and cognitive function in women with FM . METHODS Sixty middle-aged women with FM were r and omly assigned to either an exercise training group ( n = 35 ) to perform 3 sessions per week of aquatic training ( 32 degrees C ) including mobility , aerobic , strengthening , and relaxation exercises for 16 weeks , or a control group ( n = 25 ) . Twenty-five healthy women matched for age , weight , body mass index , and educational and physical activity levels were recruited .  Pain was assessed in patients using a syringe calibrated like a pressure dolorimeter , and a visual analog scale . The severity of FM was evaluated using the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire . Cognitive function was measured in healthy individuals and patients using several st and ardized neuropsychological tests . All patients were measured at baseline and post-treatment . RESULTS At baseline , the healthy group evidence d cognitive performance that was significantly superior to the group of patients with FM in all of the neuropsychological tests . The exercise group significantly improved their pain threshold , tender point count , self-reported pain , severity of FM , and cognitive function , while in the control group the differences were not significant . CONCLUSION An exercise therapy three times per week for 16 weeks in a warm-water pool is an adequate treatment to decrease the pain and severity of FM well as to improve cognitive function in previously unfit women with FM and heightened painful symptomatology OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical effectiveness of aerobic exercise in the water with walking/jogging for women with fibromyalgia ( FM ) . METHODS Sixty sedentary women with FM , ages 18 - 60 years , were r and omly assigned to either deep water running ( DWR ) or l and -based exercises ( LBE ) . Patients were trained for 15 weeks at their anaerobic threshold .  Visual analog scale of pain , Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , Beck Depression Inventory , Short Form 36 Health Survey ( SF-36 ) , and a patient 's global assessment of response to therapy ( PGART ) were measured at baseline , week 8 , and week 15 . Statistical analysis included all patients . RESULTS Four patients dropped out from each group . Both groups improved significantly at week 15 compared with baseline , with an average 36 % reduction in pain intensity . For PGART , 40 % of the DWR group and 30 % of the LBE group answered " much better " at posttreatment . FIQ total score and FIQ depression improvements in the DWR group were faster ( week 8) than the LBE group and kept improving ( week 15 ; P < 0.05 ) . Only the DWR group showed improvements in SF-36 role emotional ( P = 0.006 ) . No significant between-group differences were observed for peak oxygen uptake and other outcomes . CONCLUSION DWR is a safe exercise that has been shown to be as effective as LBE regarding pain . However , it has been shown to bring more advantages related to emotional aspects . Aerobic gain was similar for both groups , regardless of symptom improvement . Therefore , DWR could be studied as an exercise option for patients with FM who have problems adapting to LBE or lower limbs limitations OBJECTIVE To determine the safety , feasibility and consequences of a program of progressive strength training and cardiovascular exercise in women with fibromyalgia syndrome ( FMS ) . METHODS Fifteen women with confirmed FMS were monitored for injury and exercise compliance , and assessed for muscle strength ( 1-repetition maximum technique ) , cardiovascular endurance ( 6-minute walk test ) , and functional status ( Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire [ FIQ ] ) before and after a 20-week exercise intervention . RESULTS Zero injuries and an 81 % compliance rate occurred during training . Improvement was seen in muscle strength of the lower ( 191 + /- 75 to 265 + /- 67 pounds ; P < 0.001 ) and upper ( 61 + /- 18 to 76 + /- 18 pounds ; P < 0.001 ) body , 6-minute walk distance ( 530 + /- 80 to 629 + /- 74 meters ; P < 0.001 ) , and in FIQ score ( 44 + /- 9 to 32 + /- 14 ; P < 0.01 ) . CONCLUSION A program of progressive strength training and cardiovascular exercise can be safe , well tolerated , and effective at improving muscle strength , cardiovascular endurance and functional status in women with FMS without exacerbating symptoms . This program may also contribute to a reduction in the severity of several symptoms OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of exercise on mood and physical function in individuals with fibromyalgia . METHODS Subjects were r and omly assigned to an exercise ( EX ) or control ( CTL ) group . EX subjects participated in 3 30-minute exercise classes per week for 23 weeks . Subjects were tested at entry and at 6 , 12 , and 23 weeks . Tests included the Beck Depression Inventory ( BDI ) , 6-minute walk , State-Trait Anxiety Inventory ( STAI ) , Mental Health Inventory ( MHI ) , Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( FIQ ) , Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale ( ASES ) , and a measure of tender points and knee strength . RESULTS Fifty subjects ( 27 EX , 23 CTL ) completed the study , and 31 ( 15 EX , 16 CTL ) met criteria for efficacy analyses . In efficacy analyses , significant improvements were seen for EX subjects in 6-minute walk distances , BDI ( total , cognitive/ affective ) , STAI , FIQ , ASES , and MHI ( 3 of 5 subscales ) scores . These effects were reduced but remained during intent-to-treat analyses . CONCLUSION Exercise can improve the mood and physical function of individuals with fibromyalgia PURPOSE To evaluate the effects of a 12-wk period of aquatic training and subsequent detraining on health-related quality of life ( HRQOL ) and physical fitness in females with fibromyalgia . METHODS Thirty-four females with fibromyalgia were r and omly assigned into two groups : an exercise group , who exercised for 60 min in warm water , three times a week ( N = 17 ) ; and a control group , who continued their habitual leisure-time activities ( N = 17 ) . HRQOL was assessed using the Short Form 36 question naire and the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire . Physical fitness was measured using the following tests : Canadian Aerobic Fitness , h and grip dynamometry , 10-m walking , 10-step stair climbing , and blind one-leg stance . Outcomes were measured at baseline , after treatment , and after 3 months of detraining . RESULTS After 12 wk of aquatic exercise , significant positive effects of aquatic training were found in physical function , body pain , general health perception , vitality , social function , role emotional problems and mental health , balance , and stair climbing . After the detraining period , only the improvements in body pain and role emotional problems were maintained . CONCLUSION The present water exercise protocol improved some components of HRQOL , balance , and stair climbing in females with fibromyalgia , but regular exercise and higher intensities may be required to preserve most of these gains OBJECTIVE To compare a supervised 12-week aerobic exercise class with unsupervised home aerobic exercises in the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia . METHODS This was a 48-week r and omized single ( observer ) blind study in a teaching hospital rheumatology and physiotherapy department . The subjects were 74 patients who fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology criteria for fibromyalgia . Results and conclusions . A 12-week exercise class programme with home exercises demonstrated no benefit over a single physiotherapy session with home exercises in the treatment of pain in patients with fibromyalgia . Neither group ( nor the groups combined ) showed an improvement in pain compared with baseline . There was some significant benefit in psychological well-being in the exercise class group and perhaps a slowing of functional deterioration in this group OBJECTIVE To identify predictors of maintenance of exercise for women with fibromyalgia ( FM ) . METHODS Women with FM who had been r and omized to the exercise arm of a clinical trial were studied prospect ively during and 3 months following treatment . Subjects completed exercise logs weekly and returned the data via postal mail . Outcome variables were duration of aerobic and stretching exercises .  Two separate multivariate models for longitudinal data were built with adjustment for in-treatment adherence and time . Pretreatment characteristics ( self efficacy , pain , disability , stress , exercise barriers and benefits , and age ) and changes during treatment ( pain , disability , stress , and exercise barriers and benefits ) were considered potential predictors of exercise maintenance . RESULTS  Stretching  significantly decreased in the 3 months following treatment . High stress at baseline and increases in stress during treatment were associated with poor maintenance of stretching . Disability at baseline ( measured with the Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ) , an increase in barriers to exercise during treatment , and increases in upper-body pain during treatment were associated with worse maintenance of aerobic exercise in the 3 months following treatment . CONCLUSION The maintenance of an exercise program in women with FM appears to be contingent on being able to deal with stress , pain , barriers to exercise , and disability Sixty eight adult patients of fibromyalgia were included in this prospect i ve study from the Outpatient Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of Bangab and hu Sheikh Mujib Medical University ( BSMMU ) , Dhaka during the period of January 2003 to June 2003 . Study sample s were assigned into two treatment groups : Group A ( n = 38 ) with exercise by static bicycle and aerobic walking in addition to tricyclic antidepressant and analgesic and Group B ( n = 30 ) was non exercise group , treated with tricyclic antidepressant and analgesic only . The total duration of treatment was 16 weeks . Pre-treatment ( week 0 ) and post treatment ( week 16 ) evaluation was performed in both groups . Evaluation parameters included pain grade , number of trigger points , occurrence of arousal at night , frequency of micturition and global evaluation by the physician . After 16 weeks , mean improvement of exercise group and non exercise group was 48 % and 39 % respectively but this difference was not statistically significant . Therefore , from this study it was observed that aerobic exercise showed no significant benefit to fibromyalgia patients Abstract : Fibromyalgia ( FM ) is a disorder characterised by diffuse widespread musculoskeletal aching and stiffness and multiple tender points [ 1 ] . Its pathophysiology is poorly understood . The influence of aerobic endurance exercise on pain in patients with FM was investigated . Twenty-seven patients ( 25 female , 2 male ) participated in a controlled clinical study and performed 12 weeks of jogging , walking , cycling or swimming following a given schedule .  Twelve sedentary FM patients ( 11 female , 1 male ) served as controls . Before and after training both the study and the control groups were evaluated spiroergometrically .  Tender point pain was quantified by dolorimetry . The painful body surface was estimated by a pain body diagram , and its intensity by a visual analogue scale and a ranking scale . Patients trained for an average of 25 min two to three times a week , with an average intensity of 50 % of maximal oxygen uptake ( VO2max ) . Unlike the control group , the training group exhibited a decrease in heart rate and VO2 and an increase in respiratory quotient during submaximal workload . Maximal performance capacity and VO2max remained unchanged , whereas the wattpulse ( watt/heart rate ) improved at maximal workload . Pain parameters remained unchanged in the control group , but in the training group the mean number of positive tender points ( 15.4/12.7 ) , the mean pain threshold of the gluteal tender point ( 2.89 kp/3.50 kp ) and the painful body surface ( 18%/15 % body surface ) decreased significantly . Subjective general pain condition deteriorated in two patients but improved in 17 . Our results suggest a positive effect of aerobic endurance exercise on fitness and well-being in patients with FM OBJECTIVE The efficacy of an integrated , psychological treatment program was tested in a controlled study involving 27 patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain ( fibromyalgia ) . DESIGN The experimental treatment program consisted of instruction in various self-help techniques ( e.g. , cognitive behavioral strategies , relaxation , physical exercises ) as well as information on chronic pain . Control groups were instructed only in autogenic training .  Measures of pain , daily activities , general symptoms , and psychological functioning were assessed before and after treatment , as well as at 4 months after termination of therapy ( follow-up ) . RESULTS At the end of treatment , 7 patients from the experimental group and 2 from the control group showed significant clinical improvement in 3 of 6 parameters ( NS ) . At follow-up , the improvement was still present in 5 experimental cases but in none of the controls ( p = 0.024 ) . Successful patients had been sick for a shorter period of time and were less impaired by their condition . CONCLUSIONS Psychological interventions in combination with physiotherapy can be effective in treating fibromyalgia patients , especially if applied early Objective : To evaluate the effects of a community patient education -exercise programme , using a cognitive-behavioural approach , for people with fibromyalgia . Design : A r and omized , parallel group trial with assessment s at 0 , 4 and 8 months . Setting : Community leisure centres . Subjects : People with fibromyalgia ( n=183 ) attending a rheumatology outpatient department at a large district general hospital . Interventions : Participants were r and omized to a patient education-exercise group ( n=97 ) or relaxation ( attention control ) group ( n=86 ) . Main measures : The Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire ( 0 - 80 ; lower score means better health ) . Secondary outcomes included : the Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale(pain and other symptoms subscales : 1 -10 scale ; higher scores mean greater self-efficacy ) and self-reported improvement . Results : Fifty participants withdrew or were unable to attend and 133 completed and returned baseline question naires : patient education group  ( n=71 ) ; relaxation group ( n=62 ) ; 120/133 participants were women . Average age was 48 . 53 ( SD 10.89 ) years . Follow-up ranged between 73 and 82 % of question naires returned . At four months , there was a difference in average changes in total Fibromyalgia Impact Question naire scores between the two groups : patient education group -3.38 ( SD 9.35 ) ; relaxation group 0.3 ( SD 8.85 ) ; P=0.02 . Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale scores were significantly higher in the patient education group : pain 0.59 ( SD 1.45)compared to the relaxation group ’s -0.12 ( SD 1.22 ) ; P=0.003 ; other symptoms ( patient education group 0.72 ( SD 1.33 ) ; relaxation group 0.03 ( SD 1.16 ) ; P=0.002 ) . At eight months these differences were no longer apparent . Forty-seven per cent in the patient education group self-reported improvement compared with 13 % in the relaxation group ( ϰ=13.65 ; P=0.0001 ) . Conclusion : Short-term improvements result ed from the education -exercise programme but were not sustained . Appropriate selection may improve efficacy
target: Pain was significantly reduced post treatment by l and -based and water-based AE , exercises with slight to moderate intensity and frequency of two or three times per week .
  Positive effects on depressed mood , HRQOL and physical fitness could be maintained at follow-up .
  Continuing exercise was associated with positive outcomes at follow-up .
background: Introduction The efficacy and the optimal type and volume of aerobic exercise ( AE ) in fibromyalgia syndrome ( FMS ) are not established .
  We therefore assessed the efficacy of different types and volumes of AE in FMS .