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Exercise for treating fibromyalgia syndrome

  1. Angela J Busch1,*,
  2. Karen A.R. Barber2,
  3. Tom J Overend3,
  4. Paul Michael J Peloso4,
  5. Candice L Schachter5

Editorial Group: Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group

Published Online: 8 OCT 2008

Assessed as up-to-date: 16 AUG 2007

DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003786.pub2

Database Title

Additional Information

How to Cite

Busch AJ, Barber KA, Overend TJ, Peloso PMJ, Schachter CL. Exercise for treating fibromyalgia syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003786. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003786.pub2.

Author Information

  1. 1

    University of Saskatchewan, School of Physical Therapy, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada

  2. 2

    University of Saskatchewan, Continuing Physical Therapy Education, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada

  3. 3

    University of Western Ontario, School of Physical Therapy, London, Ontario, Canada

  4. 4

    Basking Ridge, NJ, USA

  5. 5

    Windsor, Ontario, Canada

*Angela J Busch, School of Physical Therapy, University of Saskatchewan, 1121 College Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 0W3, Canada. angela.busch@usask.ca.

Publication History

  1. Publication Status: Edited (no change to conclusions)
  2. Published Online: 8 OCT 2008

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References

References to studies included in this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Altan 2004 {published data only}
Buckelew 1998 {published data only}
  • Buckelew CS, Conway R, Parker J, Deuser WE, Read J, Witty TE, et al. Biofeedback/relaxation training and excerise interventions for fibromyalgia: a prospective trial. Arthritis Care & Research 1998;11(3):196-209.
    Direct Link:
Burckhardt 1994 {published data only}
  • Burckhardt CS, Mannerkorpi K, Hedenberg L, Bjelle A. A randomized, controlled clinical trial of education and physical training for women with fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 1994;21(4):714-20.
Cedraschi 2004 {published data only}
  • Cedraschi C, Desmeules J, Rapiti E, Baumgartner E, Cohen P, Finckh A, et al. Fibromyalgia: a randomised, controlled trial of a treatment programme based on self management. Annals of the Rheumatic Disease 2004 Mar;63(3):290-6.
DaCosta 2005 {published data only}
  • Da Costa D, Abrahamowicz M, Lowensteyn I, Bernatsky S, Dritsa M, Fitzcharles MA, et al. A randomized clinical trial of an individualized home-based exercise programme for women with fibromyalgia. Rheumatology 2005 Nov 1;44(11):1422-7.
Genc 2002 {published data only}
  • Genc A, Sagiroglu E. Comparison of two different exercise programs in fibromyalgia treatment. [Turkish]. Fizyoterapi Rehabilitasyon 2002;13(2):90-95.
Gowans 1999 {published data only}
  • Gowans SE, deHueck A, Voss S, Richardson M. A randomized, controlled trial of exercise and education for individuals with fibromyalgia. Arthritis Care & Research 1999;12(2):120-8.
    Direct Link:
Gowans 2001 {published data only}
  • Gowans SE, deHueck A, Voss S, Silaj A, Abbey SE. Six-month and one-year follow up of 23 weeks of aerobic exercise for individuals with fibromyalgia. Arthritis Care & Research 2004;51(6):890-898.
    Direct Link:
  • Gowans SE, deHueck A, Voss S, Silaj A, Abbey SE, Reynolds WJ. Effect of a randomized, controlled trial of exercise on mood and physical function in individuals with fibromyalgia. Arthritis Care & Research 2001 Dec;45(6):519-29.
    Direct Link:
Hakkinen 2001 {published data only}
  • Hakkinen A, Hakkinen K, Hannonen P, Alen M. Strength training induced adaptations in neuromuscular function of premenopausal women with fibromyalgia: comparison with healthy women. Annals of the Rheumatic Disease 2001;60(1):21-6.
Hakkinen 2002 {published data only}
  • Hakkinen K, Pakarinen A, Hannonen P, Hakkinen A, Airaksinen O, Valkeinen H, et al. Effects of strength training on muscle strength, cross-sectional area, maximal electromyographic activity, and serum hormones in premenopausal women with fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 2002 Jun;29(6):1287-95.
Isomeri 1993 {published data only}
  • Isomeri R, Mikkelsson M, Latikka P, Kammonen K. Effects of amitriptyline and cardiovascular fitness training on pain in patients with primary fibromyalgia. Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain 1993;1:253-60.
Jentoft 2001 {published data only}
  • Jentoft ES, Kvalvik AG, Mengshoel AM. Effects of pool-based and land-based aerobic exercise on women with fibromyalgia/chronic widespread muscle pain. Arthritis & Rheumatism 2001;45:42-7.
    Direct Link:
Jones 2002 {published data only}
  • Jones KD, Burckhardt CS, Clark SR, Bennett RM, Potempa KM. A randomized controlled trial of muscle strengthening versus flexibility training in fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 2002 May;29(5):1041-8.
Keel 1998 {published data only}
King 2002 {published data only}
  • King SJ, Wessel J, Bhambhani Y, Sholter D, Maksymowych W. The effects of exercise and education, individually or combined, in women with fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 2002 Dec;29(12):2620-7.
Mannerkorpi 2000 {published data only}
  • Mannerkorpi K, Ahlmen M, Ekdahl C. Six- and 24-month follow-up of pool exercise therapy and education for patients with fibromyalgia. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology 2002;31(5):306-10.
  • Mannerkorpi K, Nyberg B, Ahlmen M, Ekdahl C. Pool exercise combined with an education program for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. A prospective, randomized study. Journal of Rheumatology 2000;27(10):2473-81.
Martin 1996 {published data only}
  • Martin L, Nutting A, MacIntosh BR, Edworthy SM, Butterwick D, Cook J. An exercise program in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 1996;23(6):1050-3.
McCain 1988 {published data only}
  • McCain GA, Bell DA, Mai FM, Halliday PD. A controlled study of the effects of a supervised cardiovascular fitness training program on the manifestations of primary fibromyalgia. Arthritis & Rheumatism 1988;31(9):1135-41.
    Direct Link:
Mengshoel 1992 {published data only}
  • Mengshoel AM, Komnaes HB, Forre O. The effects of 20 weeks of physical fitness training in female patients with fibromyalgia. Clinical & Experimental Rheumatology 1992;10(4):345-9.
Meyer 2000 {published data only}
Nichols 1994 {published data only}
  • Nichols DS, Glenn TM. Effects of aerobic exercise on pain perception, affect, and level of disability in individuals with fibromyalgia. Physical Therapy 1994;74:327-32.
Norregaard 1997 {published data only}
  • Norregaard J, Lykkegaard JJ, Mehlsen J, Danneskiold Samsoe B. Exercise training in treatment of fibromyalgia. Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain 1997;5(1):71-9.
Ramsay 2000 {published data only}
  • Ramsay C, Moreland J, Ho M, Joyce S, Walker S, Pullar T. An observer-blinded comparison of supervised and unsupervised aerobic exercise regimens in fibromyalgia. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2000;39(5):501-5.
Redondo 2004 {published data only}
  • Redondo JR, Justo CM, Moraleda FV, Velayos YG, Puche JJ, Zubero JR, et al. Long-term efficacy of therapy in patients with fibromyalgia: a physical exercise-based program and a cognitive-behavioral approach. Arthritis & Rheumatism 2004 Apr 15;51(2):184-92.
    Direct Link:
Richards 2002 {published data only}
Schachter 2003 {published data only}
  • Schachter CL, Busch AJ, Peloso P, Sheppard MS. The effects of short vs long bouts of aerobic exercise in sedentary women with fibromyalgia: A randomized controlled trial. Physical Therapy 2003;83(4):340-58.
Sencan 2004 {published data only}
  • Sencan S, Ak S, Karan A, Muslumanoglu L, Ozcan E, Berker E. A study to compare the therapeutic efficacy of aerobic exercise and paroxetine in fibromyalgia syndrome. Journal of Back & Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation 2004;17(2):57-61.
Valim 2003 {published data only}
  • Valim V, Oliveira L, Suda A, Silva L, de Assis M, Barros NT, et al. Aerobic fitness effects in fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 2003 May;30(5):1060-9.
Valkeinen 2004 {published data only}
  • Valkeinen H, Alen M, Hannonen P, Hakkinen A, Airaksinen O, Hakkinen K. Changes in knee extension and flexion force, EMG and functional capacity during strength training in older females with fibromyalgia and healthy controls. Rheumatology 2004 Feb;43(2):225-8.
vanSanten 2002a {published data only}
  • vanSanten M, Bolwijn P, Verstappen F, Bakker C, Hidding A, Houben H, et al. A randomized clinical trial comparing fitness and biofeedback training versus basic treatment in patients with fibromyalgia. Journal of Rheumatology 2002 Mar;29(3):575-81.
vanSanten 2002b {published data only}
  • vanSanten M, Bolwijn P, Landewe R, Verstappen F, Bakker C, Hidding A, et al. High or low intensity aerobic fitness training in fibromyalgia: does it matter?. Journal of Rheumatology 2002 Mar;29(3):582-7.
Verstappen 1997 {published data only}
  • Verstappen FTJ, Santen-Hoeuftt HMS, Bolwijn PH, van der LS, Kuipers H. Effects of a group activity program for fibromyalgia patients on physical fitness and well being. Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain 1997;5(4):17-28.
Wigers 1996 {published data only}
  • Wigers SH, Stiles TC, Vogel PA. Effects of aerobic exercise versus stress management treatment in fibromyalgia. A 4.5 year prospective study. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology 1996;25(2):77-86.
Zijlstra 2005 {published data only}
  • Zijlstra TR, van de Laar MA, Bernelot Moens HJ, Taal E, Zakraoui L, Rasker JJ. Spa treatment for primary fibromyalgia syndrome: a combination of thalassotherapy, exercise and patient education improves symptoms and quality of life. Rheumatology 2005;44:539-46.

References to studies excluded from this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Ahlgren 2001 {published data only}
  • Ahlgren C, Waling K, Kadi F, Djupsjobacka M, Thornell L, Sundelin G. Effects on physical performance and pain from three dynamic training programs for women with work-related trapezius myalgia. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine 2001;33(4):162-169.
Astin 2003 {published data only}
  • Astin JA, Berman BM, Bausel B, Lee WL, Hochberg M, Forys KL. The efficacy of mindfulness meditation plus Qigong movement therapy in the treatment of fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial.. Journal of Rheumatology Journal of Rheumatology 2003;30(10):2257-2262.
Bailey 1999 {published data only}
  • Bailey A, Starr L, Alderson M, Moreland J. A comparative evaluation of a fibromyalgia rehabilitation program. Arthritis Care & Research 1999 Oct;12(5):336-40.
    Direct Link:
Bakker 1995 {published data only}
  • Bakker C, Rutten M, van Santen-Hoeufft M, Bolwijn P, van Doorslaer E, van der Linden S. Patient utilities in fibromyalgia and the association with other outcome measures. Journal of Rheumatology 1995;22:1536-43.
Dawson 2003 {published data only}
  • Dawson KA, Tiidus PM, Pierrynowski M, Crawford JP, Trotter J. Evaluation of a community-based exercise program for diminishing symptoms of fibromyalgia.. Physiotherapy Canada 2003;55:17-22.
Gandhi 2000 {published data only}
  • Gandhi N. Effect of an exercise program on quality of life of women with fibromyalgia. Microform Publications , University of Oregon , Eugene , Or 2000.
Geel 2002 {published data only}
Gowans 2002 {published data only}
Guarino 2001 {published data only}
  • Guarino P, Peduzzi P, Donta ST, et al. A multicenter two by two factorial trial of cognitive behavioral therapy and aerobic exercise for Gulf War veterans' illnesses: Design of a Veterans Affairs Cooperative Study (CSP #470). Controlled Clinical Trials 2001;22:310-332.
Han 1998 {published data only}
  • Han SS. Effects of a self-help program including stretching exercise on symptom reduction in patients with fibromyalgia. Taehan Kanho 1998;37:78-80.
Hunt 2000 {published data only}
  • Hunt J, Bogg J. An evaluation of the impact of a fibromyalgia self-management programme on patient morbidity and coping. Advancing in Physiotherapy 2000;2(4):168-75.
Karper 2001 {published data only}
  • Karper WB, Hopewell R, Hodge M. Exercise program effects on women with fibromyalgia syndrome. Clinical Nurse Specialist 2001;15:67-75.
Kendall 2000 {published data only}
  • Kendall SA, Brolin MK, Soren B, Gerdle B, Henriksson KG. A pilot study of body awareness programs in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome.. Arthritis Care and Research 2000;13:304-311.
    Direct Link:
Kingsley 2005 {published data only}
  • Kingsley JD, Panton LB, Toole T, Sirithienthad P, Mathis R, McMillan V. The effects of a 12-week strength-training program on strength and functionality in women with fibromyalgia. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2005;86(9):1713-21.
Mason 1998 {published data only}
Meiworm 2000 {published data only}
Mobily 2001 {published data only}
  • Mobily KE, Verburg MD. Aquatic therapy in community-based therapeutic recreation: pain management in a case of fibromyalgia.. Therapeutic recreation journal 2001;35:57-69.
Nielen 2000 {published data only}
Offenbacher 2000 {published data only}
  • Offenbacher M, Stucki G. Physical therapy in the treatment of fibromyalgia.. Scandinavian journal of rheumatology 2000;suppl 29:78.
Oncel 1994 {published data only}
  • Oncel A, Eskiyurt N, Leylabadi M. The results obtained by different therapeutic measures in the treatment of generalized fibromyalgia syndrome. Tip Fakultesi Mecmuasi 1994;57(4):45-9.
Peters 2002 {published data only}
  • Peters S, Stanley I, Rose M, Kaney S, Salmon P. A randomized controlled trial of group aerobic exercise in primary care patients with persistent, unexplained physical symptoms. Family Practice 2002;19:665-674.
Pfeiffer 2003 {published data only}
  • Pfeiffer AT. Effects of a 1.5-day multidisciplinary outpatient treatment program for fibromyalgia: a pilot study. American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation 2003;82:196-191.
Piso 2001 {published data only}
  • Piso U, Kuther G, Gutenbrunner C, Gehrke A. Analgesic effects of sauna in fibromyalgia. [German]. Physikalische Medizin Rehabilitationsmedizin Kurortmedizin 2001;11(3):94-9.
Rooks 2002 {published data only}
  • Rooks DS, Silverman CB, Kantrowitz FG. The effects of progressive strength training and aerobic exercise on muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness in women with fibromyalgia: a pilot study. Arthritis Rheum 2002;47:22-28.
    Direct Link:
Thieme 2003 {published data only}
  • Thieme K, Gronica-Ihle E, Flor H. Operant behavioral treatment of fibromyalgia: A controlled study. Arthritis Care & Research Arthritis Care & Research 2003;49:314-320.
Tiidus 1997 {published data only}
Vlaeyen1996 {published data only}
  • Vlaeyen JW, Teeken-Gruben NJ, Goossens ME, Rutten-van Molken MP, Pelt RA, Van Eek H, et al. Cognitive-educational treatment of fibromyalgia: a randomized clinical trial. I Clinical effects. Journal of Rheumatology 1996;23(7):1237-45.
Worrel 2001 {published data only}
  • Worrel LM, Krahn LE, Sletten CD, Pond GR. Treating fibromyalgia with a brief interdisciplinary program: initial outcomes and predictors of response.. Mayo Clin Proc. 2001;76:384-390 2001;76:384-390.

References to studies awaiting assessment

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Assis 2006 {published data only}
  • Assis MR, Silva LE, Alves AM, Pessanha AP, Valim V, Feldman D, Neto TL, Natour J. Randomized controlled trial of deep water running: Clinical effectiveness of aquatic exercise to treat fibromyalgia. Arthritis and Rheumatism 2006;55:57-65.
    Direct Link:
Gusi 2006 {published data only}
  • Gusi N, Tomas-Carus P, Hakkinen A, Hakkinen K, Ortega-Alonso A. Exercise in waist-high warm water decreases pain and improves health-related quality of life and strength in the lower extremities in women with fibromyalgia. Arthritis & Rheumatism 2006;55:66-73.
    Direct Link:
Salek 2005 {published data only}
  • Salek AK, Khan MM, Ahmed SM, Rashid MI, Emran MA, Mamun MA. Effect of aerobic exercise on patients with primary fibromyalgia syndrome. Mymensingh Medical Journal 2005;14:141-144.

Additional references

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
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References to other published versions of this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Busch 2001
  • Busch AJ, Schachter CL, Peloso PM. Fibromyalgia and exercise training: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Physical Therapy Review 2001;6:287-306.
Busch 2002
  • Busch AJ, Schachter CL, Peloso P, Bombardier C. Exercise for treating fibromyalgia syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2002, Issue 3. [Art. No.: CD003786. DOI: ]
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