Efficacy and feasibility of a combination of body awareness therapy and qigong in patients with fibromyalgia: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effects of body awareness therapy combined with qigong for patients with fibromyalgia.


METHODS
A controlled randomized pilot study.


METHODS
Thirty-six female patients with fibromyalgia were randomized to either qigong plus body awareness therapy (n = 19) or a control group (n = 17).


METHODS
The programme was conducted once a week over a period of 3 months. The outcome measures were an observational method called the Body Awareness Rating Scale, the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and 2 tests of physical function. An interview was conducted with the patients in the treatment group.


RESULTS
Seven patients in each group (39%) were lost to the post-test examination. The inter-group analysis revealed a significant improvement in movement harmony for the treatment group (p = 0.03), while no differences were found in the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire or the functional tests. The intra-group analysis revealed an improvement in movement harmony for the treatment group (p = 0.01), while the total score of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire deteriorated (p = 0.04) in the control group. The interviews indicated that several patients had experienced exacerbation of symptoms while standing still, and/or difficulty in concentrating on the movements.


CONCLUSIONS
Although improvement in movement harmony occurred in the patients completing the treatment programme, no improvement was found for fibromyalgia symptoms or physical function.
Mannerkorpi
Kaisa
K
Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden. kaisa.mannerkorpi@rheuma.gu.se
Arndorw
Maudh
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001828:Body Image; D001945:Breathing Exercises; D005260:Female; D005356:Fibromyalgia / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome