Biofeedback/relaxation training and exercise interventions for fibromyalgia: a prospective trial.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effectiveness of biofeedback/relaxation, exercise, and a combined program for the treatment of fibromyalgia.


METHODS
Subjects (n = 119) were randomly assigned to one of 4 groups: 1) biofeedback/relaxation training, 2) exercise training, 3) a combination treatment, or 4) an educational/attention control program.


RESULTS
All 3 treatment groups produced improvements in self-efficacy for function relative to the control condition. In addition, all treatment groups were significantly different from the control group on tender point index scores, reflecting a modest deterioration by the attention control group rather than improvements by the treatment groups. The exercise and combination groups also resulted in modest improvements on a physical activity measure. The combination group best maintained benefits across the 2-year period.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that these 3 treatment interventions result in improved self-efficacy for physical function which was best maintained by the combination group.
Buckelew
S P
SP
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Missouri Arthritis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia, USA.
Conway
R
R
Parker
J
J
Deuser
W E
WE
Read
J
J
Witty
T E
TE
Hewett
J E
JE
Minor
M
M
Johnson
J C
JC
Van Male
L
L
McIntosh
M J
MJ
Nigh
M
M
Kay
D R
DR
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D001676:Biofeedback, Psychology / Q000379:methods; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D005356:Fibromyalgia / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome