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Qigong and Fibromyalgia circa 2017
1Departments of Pharmacology, Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada. jana.sawynok@dal.ca.
Medicines (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 21, 2017
Summary
Consistent practice of Qigong (a mind-body therapy) significantly improves pain, sleep, and function in fibromyalgia patients. Benefits are maintained long-term, suggesting Qigong merits further study.
Area of Science:
- Integrative and Complementary Medicine
- Mind-Body Therapies
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Qigong, an ancient Chinese internal art, is recognized as meditative movement and mind-body therapy.
- Fibromyalgia management often includes complementary and alternative exercise approaches.
- Existing research highlights the need to consider practice duration for Qigong's effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of Qigong practice on fibromyalgia symptoms and overall function.
- To analyze the relationship between the amount of Qigong practice and patient outcomes.
- To determine the long-term benefits and potential of Qigong as a fibromyalgia treatment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and analysis of controlled trials and observational reports on Qigong for fibromyalgia.
- Focus on studies involving diligent practice (30-45 min daily for 6-8 weeks).
- Inclusion of data on long-term practice (1-10 years) for broader health benefits.
Main Results:
- Diligent Qigong practice (4 trials, 201 subjects) showed consistent, large effect sizes for improved pain, sleep, and physical/mental function.
- Benefits were maintained for 4-6 months post-intervention.
- Extensive practice (1-3 years, up to a decade) indicated additional health improvements beyond core fibromyalgia symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Qigong demonstrates significant efficacy in improving core fibromyalgia symptoms and function.
- The amount and consistency of Qigong practice are crucial factors for achieving sustained benefits.
- Qigong warrants further investigation and consideration in fibromyalgia treatment guidelines.
