Progressive Resistance Training for Fibromyalgia

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Progressive Resistance Training Program for Patients With Fibromyalgia: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Patients in the experimental group underwent a progressive resistance training program, performed twice a week for 12 weeks. The charge intensity was progressively increased from 40% to 80% of 1 repetition maximum. The following muscle groups were worked: trunk flexors and extensors, elbow flexors and extensors, knee flexors and extensors, hip abductors and adductors and shoulder abductors. In addition to strength training, the experimental group also conducted a structured education program in one hour class once a week for five weeks. Patients in the control group performed the same education program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of fibromyalgia according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology;
• Feminine gender;
• Age between 18 and 65 years;
• Pain between 3 and 8 cm in the Numerical Pain Scale (END);
• Have not changed treatment for fibromyalgia in the past three months;
• Agree to participate in the study and sign the informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive deficit that does not allow the understanding of the evaluation instruments;
• Other diseases that make it impossible to perform the exercises;
• Physical activity started or changed in the last three months;
• Physical therapy in the last six months;
• In litigation.