Use of a mechanical massage technique in the treatment of fibromyalgia: a preliminary study.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate how a mechanical massage technique (LPG technique) could contribute to the treatment of fibromyalgia.


METHODS
Feasibility study.


METHODS
A single center.


METHODS
Ten women having a preexisting diagnosis of fibromyalgia based on American College of Rheumatology criteria were enrolled.


METHODS
Subjects received a total of 15 sessions of mechanical massage administered by a physical therapist once a week.


METHODS
The Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and a physical examination scoring tender points (number, pain intensity). Evaluations were conducted at the screening visit, after 7 sessions (V7), and after completion of 15 sessions (V15).


RESULTS
Most of the parameters (pain intensity, physical function, number of tender points) showed a significant improvement at V15 compared with screening.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings suggest the possibility that the studied intervention might be associated with positive outcomes in women with fibromyalgia, and support the need for a controlled clinical trial to determine its efficacy.
Gordon
Chrisanne
C
Memorial Hospital of Union County, Marysville, OH 43043, USA.
Emiliozzi
Clélia
C
Zartarian
Marie
M
D000328:Adult; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D005356:Fibromyalgia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008405:Massage / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011336:Probability; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D018570:Risk Assessment; D016896:Treatment Outcome