Effects of strength training in fibromyalgia on balance, neuromuscular performance, and symptomatic analysis: a 12-week study protocol

Abstract

Fibromyalgia affects skeletal muscles presenting with muscle stiffness, pain, and fatigue. The exercise practice is wellstabilized and suggested for the reduction of symptoms. However, there are some gaps in the literature related to balance and neuromuscular performance in a strength training protocol. The aim of this study is to structure a protocol to verify the effects of strength training applied over a short period, on balance, neuromuscular performance, and fibromyalgia symptoms. Additionally, we intend to analyze the effects of a short period of cessation of training. Participants will be recruited through flyers, internet advertisements, clinical referrals, health professionals, and email outreach. Volunteers will be randomly assigned to the control group or experimental group. Before the training period, symptoms (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Visual Analog Scale), balance (force plate), and neuromuscular performance (medicine ball throw and vertical jump) will be assessed. Participants in the experimental group will perform strength training twice a week (50 min each), on alternate days, for 8 weeks (16 sessions). Then, 4 weeks of detraining will be completed. This training program will be carried out online, using real-time videos, and the participants will be divided into two groups with different schedules. The Borg scale will be used to monitor perceived effort in each session. There is a gap in the literature about exercise prescriptions for fibromyalgia. The supervised online intervention enables a wide range of participation. The strength exercises used (without the use of external materials and/or machines) and load (few repetitions per set) represent a novelty to training programming. Moreover, this training program respects the limitations and individuality of the volunteers, providing exercise adaptations. With positive results, the present protocol could be an easy-to-apply guideline with clear instructions on the details related to exercise prescription. Also, ensure the effectiveness of a low-cost and feasible treatment, especially for fibromyalgia patients.Clinical trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier: NCT05646641.

Fibromyalgia and Sedentarism: Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?

“…There is a large body of scientific evidence to suggest that exercise and physical activity are key to improving symptoms in people diagnosed with FM [6,10,13,28], many of which include reduction in pain, improvement in perceived levels of anxiety and depression, as well as general quality of life [9,22,29]. However, FM women have relatively poor exercise adherence rates and maintain more sedentary lifestyles compared to healthy women [30].…”

“…However, due to the great diversity of symptoms in people diagnosed with fibromyalgia, there is no consensus on what, how, and when physical activity should be performed [10]. Although aquatic exercise has classically been considered the most appropriate for reducing inflammation and improving symptoms and quality of life [6,7], other current studies have shown that strength training is one of the most effective methods for improving these health patients [11][12][13] without focusing too much on daily cardiovascular health. In addition, sedentary lifestyles predominate in this type of patient to avoid worsening of symptoms and increased pain [9,14].…”

Beyond the Pain: A Systematic Narrative Review of the Latest Advancements in Fibromyalgia Treatment

“…Low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming, and cycling, are effective in managing fibromyalgia symptoms [ 51 ]. Strength training and stretching exercises can also be beneficial in improving muscle strength and flexibility [ 52 ].…”