Evidence summary (Updated 2022)
A Cochrane review identified a significant improvement in cardiovascular fitness in those with fibromyalgia undertaking aerobic physical activity interventions [1]. Their meta-analysis of 3 RCTs demonstrated a large improvement in the intervention group, with the Standardised Mean Difference 0.79 (0.37-1.21).
Quality of evidence
Moderate quality
Strength of recommendation
Weak
Conclusion
Regular physical activity can be expected to improve cardiovascular fitness in those people with chronic musculoskeletal pain who were previously inactive.
References
1 Busch AJ, Barber KAR, Overend TJ, et al.Exercise for treating fibromyalgia syndrome (Review). Cochrane Database Syst RevPublished Online First: 2007. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD003786.pub2.Copyright
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