Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
08:33
A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers
Published on: January 5, 2024
Exercise for treating fibromyalgia syndrome
A J Busch1, K A R Barber, T J Overend
1University of Saskatchewan, School of Physical Therapy, 1121 College Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N 0W3. busch@usask.ca
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|October 19, 2007
Summary
Exercise training, particularly aerobic exercise, improves physical function and well-being for fibromyalgia (FMS) patients. More research is needed on strength and flexibility training for FMS.
Area of Science:
- Exercise physiology
- Rheumatology
- Physical therapy
Background:
- Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a chronic pain syndrome impacting physical function and healthcare utilization.
- Exercise training is a common recommendation for FMS management.
- This review updates previous findings on exercise interventions for FMS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the effects of exercise training on FMS.
- To assess impacts on global well-being, pain, and physical function.
- To examine cardiorespiratory, muscle strengthening, and flexibility exercises.
Main Methods:
- Searched multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, etc.) up to July 2005.
- Included randomized trials focusing on exercise interventions for FMS.
- Assessed study quality and utilized meta-analysis for comparable studies.
Main Results:
- Moderate evidence shows aerobic exercise improves well-being and physical function in FMS.
- Aerobic exercise may also positively impact pain and tender points.
- Strength and flexibility training effects are less evaluated.
Conclusions:
- Supervised aerobic exercise demonstrates 'gold' level evidence for improving physical capacity and FMS symptoms.
- Strength training may offer benefits for certain FMS symptoms.
- Further research on strength, flexibility, and long-term exercise benefits for FMS is required.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment
Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular transmission disorder characterized by weakness and increased fatigability of skeletal muscles. It is an autoimmune disease affecting approximately one in 2000 people, where antibodies against the α1 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are produced.
These antibodies interfere with the function of the nicotinic receptors in three ways: by binding to the receptor and disrupting acetylcholine binding; by causing cross-linking of receptors which leads...
These antibodies interfere with the function of the nicotinic receptors in three ways: by binding to the receptor and disrupting acetylcholine binding; by causing cross-linking of receptors which leads...
01:31Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: Therapeutic Uses
Skeletal muscle relaxants are used to relax muscle tone and alleviate painful muscle contractions. However, the choice of skeletal muscle relaxants depends on the duration of the surgical procedure in order to minimize potential side effects. Skeletal muscle relaxants like neuromuscular blocking agents [NMBAs] are commonly employed as adjuvants alongside general anesthetics in clinical settings. NMBAs are also used to maintain controlled ventilation during surgery of the larynx or pharynx as...