Authors: Mónica Sousa (1), João Moutão (1,2), Rafael Oliveira (1,2,3), Susana Alves (1,2)
(1) Sport Science School of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarem
(2) Life Quality Research Centre
(3) Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a rheumatic disease characterized by chronic widespread muscle pain and its treatment is carried out through pharmacological interventions. Physical exercise and the adoption of a healthy lifestyle influence the reduction of the symptoms of the disease. The main objective of this study was to analyze the effects of a combined training program on health and functional capacity in female individuals diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. It was a quasi-experimental study with a duration of 8 months with a sample of six participants between 43 and 58 years old, who did not practice any type of physical exercise program. The following instruments were used in baseline and post intervention: Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36v2) and functional physical fitness tests (30-second chair stand, arm curl, sit and reach, 8-ft up-and-go, back scratch and 2-minute step test. Wilcoxon non-parametric test (intra-group comparison) was used, with a significance level of p<0.05 to compare baseline and post intervention effects. Significant improvements were observed: in 2-minute step test (p=0.21); physical function; physical performance; physical pain and general health, the mental component, vitality; social function of the SF-36v2 (all, p<0.05). Moreover, FIQ showed a significant reduction in all scales at the end of the program compared to the baseline (p<0.05). Combined training program can reduce the impact of fibromyalgia while improving health and aerobic performance.
Keywords: Combined Exercise Program; Fibromyalgia; Functional Capacity; Health.
Read the full article in November 23 Newsletter