Ide (2008) Effect of aquatic respiratory exercise-based program in patients with fibromyalgia

Summary 

Abstract

This study explores the impact of aquatic respiratory exercises on fibromyalgia patients.

Objective

The main goal was to assess how an aquatic respiratory exercise-based program affects fibromyalgia (FMS) patients.

Methods

Forty women, aged 20 to 60, participated in the study. They were split into two groups of 20 each: the aquatic respiratory exercise group (ARG) and the control group (CTL). The ARG group underwent a 4-week exercise program, including warming-up, respiratory exercises with various breathing patterns and limb movements for 45 minutes, and relaxation exercises. Both groups also engaged in weekly supervised recreational activities for an hour.

Questionnaires measured quality of life, functional capacity (SF-36, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire [FIQ]), anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Scale [HAS]), and sleep quality (Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]). Tender points and pain levels (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS]) were also assessed.

Results

Initially, both groups showed similar results in tender points and questionnaire responses. Post-intervention, the ARG group exhibited significant improvements in several areas. These included physical functioning, bodily pain, vitality, social and emotional functioning (SF-36 scores), overall FIQ score, work missed, fatigue, and morning tiredness. Additionally, there were notable improvements in pain (VAS), dyspnea (VAS-dyspnea), anxiety (HAS), and sleep quality (PSQI).

Conclusions

The aquatic respiratory exercise-based program significantly enhanced pain management, quality of life, functional capacity, anxiety levels, and sleep quality in FMS patients. This program could be a valuable addition to fibromyalgia treatment strategies.

Keyphrase: Aquatic respiratory exercise for fibromyalgia patients

Keywords: Exercise therapy, fibromyalgia, health status, pain, quality of life, sleep.