Effects of Physical Therapy in Pain and Posture of Fibromyalgia Patients

Effects of Two Physiotherapeutic Treatments in Pain and Posture of Fibromyalgia Patients: Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of two physiotherapeutic treatments of fibromyalgia: global postural reeducation associated with cognitive behavioral therapy and segmental muscle stretching exercises associated with cognitive behavioral therapy.

Fibromyalgia is characterized mainly by chronic widespread pain. Segmental muscle stretching therapeutic exercises reduce the shortening of myofascial structures and recover the body flexibility. It is indicated for the treatment of chronic pain caused by osteo-myo-articular dysfunction. The pain behavior may be defined as the adoption of body postures and attitudes that a person communicates his/her pain. In this way, the global postural reeducation - a method of muscles chains stretching exercises - could be an important intervention. In addition, negative thoughts and dysfunctional beliefs are usual in situations of chronic pain, compromising the health recovery process. As part of a pain catastrophizing-related therapeutic approach, physiotherapist may help patients with chronic pain to develop positive, realistic and hope attitudes as based on the cognitive behavioral therapy model.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with fibromyalgia according to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology diagnostic criteria and the presence of at least 11 of 18 tender points.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of joint deformities
• Independent walking disability
• Making another physiotherapeutic treatment at the same time.