Effects of a 12-Week Progressive, Full Body, Strength-Training Program in Women with Fibromyalgia

Persons with fibromyalgia (FMS) may have compromised muscular strength and muscular endurance due to their disease. PURPOSE The purpose of the present study was to determine whether women with FMS could benefit from a 12-week strength-training program by decreasing tender point sensitivity, fibromyalgia disease impact, and increasing strength and functionality. METHODS Twenty women (46.1±7.1 yr) previously diagnosed with FMS participated in the study. Muscular strength was assessed by a maximal one-repetition strength test (1-RM) for upper and lower body. Tender point reactivity and sensitivity was manually assessed by a board certified rheumatologist. Fibromyalgia impact was assessed by the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). Body composition was assessed by Dual Energy Xray Absorptiometry (DEXA). Functionality was assessed by utilizing the Continuous Scale- Physical Functional Performance Test (Cs-PFP) that consists of tasks that simulate ADL. The Cs-PFP consists of 5 domains, upper body strength, upper body flexibility, lower body strength, balance and coordination, and endurance as well as an overall score of functionality. Subjects were randomly assigned to a control (C: n=12) or strength (S: n=8) group. The 12-week training program consisted of 11 exercises that focused on the major muscle groups of the body. Subjects exercised twice a week performing 1 set of 8-12 repetitions at 40-60% of their 1-RM and progressing to 60-80 % of 1-RM. Two-way ANOVA was used to assess significance (p