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Muscle performance in patients with fibromyalgia
Didier Maquet1, Jean-Louis Croisier, Cindy Renard
1Faculté de Médecine, Université de Liège, Médecine de l'Appareil Locomoteur, CHU Sart Tilman, Belgium.
Joint Bone Spine
|July 10, 2002
Summary
Muscle performance is significantly impaired in women with fibromyalgia (FMS). This study found reduced muscle strength, fatigue resistance, and endurance, particularly affecting aerobic processes.
Area of Science:
- Muscle physiology
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and fatigue.
- Muscle dysfunction is often reported in FMS patients, but its extent and nature require further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare muscle performance, including strength, endurance, and fatigue resistance, between women with FMS and healthy controls.
- To investigate whether aerobic or anaerobic muscle function is more affected in FMS.
Main Methods:
- The study included 16 women with FMS and 85 healthy women.
- Muscle performance was assessed using isokinetic strength and fatigue testing, isometric grip strength, and static endurance tests.
Main Results:
- Women with FMS demonstrated significantly lower muscle strength, fatigue resistance, and static endurance compared to healthy controls.
- The impairment was more pronounced in aerobic processes, with static endurance showing an 81% decrease.
- FMS patients reported increased pain during exercise.
Conclusions:
- Muscle function is globally impaired in women with FMS.
- The findings suggest a predominant impact on aerobic energy pathways in FMS-related muscle dysfunction.