Effects of a motor imagery-based exercise protocol on chronic pain and emotional distress in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: A pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread muscular or musculoskeletal pain of at least 3 months' duration, occurring above and below the waist, on both sides of the body.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program based on motor imagery versus a conventional exercise program in FM in terms of pain, functional and psychological outcomes.

METHODS

Twenty-nine female subjects were randomly assigned to a group receiving motor imagery-based rehabilitation (MIG) or to a control group (CG) performing conventional rehabilitation. Outcome assessments were performed before (T0) and after 10 sessions of treatment (T1) and at a 12-week follow-up (T2). Pain, function and psychological measurements were conducted by means of different questionnaires.

RESULTS

Both treatments improved all outcomes at post-treatment (T1) and follow-up (T2). The MIG showed a significant improvement in anxiety disorder associated with FM with respect to the CG, as well as improvements in coping strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Rehabilitation treatment based on motor imagery showed a stronger effect on anxiety and coping behavior than traditional physiotherapy in patients with FM. Integrated psychological support would be desirable in this setting. Further research is needed to explore the aspects investigated in more depth.