Efficacy of a Novel Home-Based Stretching Program on Fibromyalgia Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Morten Pallisgaard Støve1, Stig Peter Magnusson2, Janus Laust Thomsen3
1Department of Physiotherapy, University College of Northern Denmark (UCN), Aalborg East; Centre for General Practice, Aalborg University, Gistrup.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|June 4, 2026
Summary
A six-week home-based stretching program significantly improved fibromyalgia symptoms, offering a feasible non-pharmacological treatment. This low-intensity intervention demonstrated clinically meaningful results for patients with fibromyalgia.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Management
Background:
- Fibromyalgia management often relies on non-pharmacological approaches.
- Adherence to recommended treatments can be a significant challenge for patients.
- Novel, accessible interventions are needed to improve fibromyalgia outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a home-based, low-intensity stretching program.
- To compare the intervention against usual care in adults with fibromyalgia.
- To assess changes in the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ-R) total score.
Main Methods:
- A parallel, waitlist-controlled randomized trial involving 58 adult fibromyalgia patients.
- Participants were randomized to six weeks of daily low-intensity stretching (6 min/day) or usual care.
- The primary outcome was the change in FIQ-R total score from baseline to follow-up.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed a significant improvement in FIQ-R total score (mean decrease of 9.7 points, 18.7% improvement).
- The control group experienced a non-significant change in FIQ-R total score.
- High adherence (83%) was reported for the home-based stretching intervention.
Conclusions:
- Low-intensity, high-frequency home-based stretching is a feasible and well-tolerated non-pharmacological treatment for fibromyalgia.
- The intervention led to significant and clinically meaningful improvements in fibromyalgia impact.
- Further research with longer durations and diverse populations is recommended.
