Functional exercise training has been shown to be significantly more effective than traditional stretching exercises when it comes to managing pain and enhancing quality of life for individuals suffering from fibromyalgia (FM).1
According to the lead investigator, Giovana Fernandes, from the Rheumatology Division at Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil, functional training is specifically designed to improve an individual’s capacity to perform specific tasks. This type of training is already recognized for its role in boosting athletic performance, reducing injury rates, and aiding older adults in daily activities. However, there has been a notable lack of studies that focus on the application of functional exercises for those diagnosed with FM.1
In parallel, recent investigations into pain reduction for FM patients have explored the benefits of digital acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), a variant of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Results indicated that this method is not only safe but also effective in managing FM symptoms among adult patients, offering a promising alternative to digital symptom tracking methods.2
After a 12-week period, a substantial 71% of participants utilizing ACT reported significant improvements on the patient global impression of change scale, in stark contrast to just 22% of those in the active control group, resulting in a remarkable proportional difference of 48.4% (95% CI, 37.9–58.9; P<.0001). This demonstrates that the digital ACT group outperformed the active control group across various measurements including total scores on the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, patient-reported outcomes, and indicators of weekly pain intensity and interference.2
REFERENCES
1. Fernandes, G., Nery, M., Meireles, S.M. et al. A functional exercise program improves pain and health related quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Adv Rheumatol 64, 81 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42358-024-00422-7
2. Gendreau RM, McCracken LM, Williams DA, et al. Self-guided digital behavioural therapy versus active control for fibromyalgia (PROSPER-FM): a phase 3, multicentre, randomised controlled trial. Lancet. 2024; 404(10450): 364-374. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(24)00909-7
Take the Pain Away: A Cheeky Dive into Functional Exercise and Fibromyalgia
Ah, fibromyalgia. The condition that makes you feel like you’ve been hit by a bus—only to realize the bus was driven by a particularly hungover kangaroo on roller skates. Now, if you’ve found yourself navigating the tender maze of fibromyalgia, you’ll be pleased to know that recently, a study turned functional exercise into the not-so-secret weapon against pain and malaise. Because who knew sweating could actually alleviate your suffering? Give me a round of applause for the world’s most sarcastic personal trainer, please!
According to new findings, functional exercise training proved to be way more effective at reducing pain and improving quality of life compared to those delightful stretching exercises that gave us nothing but static in our joints. As lead investigator Giovana Fernandes from the Escola Paulista de Medicina in Brazil so tactfully noted, “The aim of functional training is to optimize the skills of an individual regarding the performance of a particular task.” Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? I mean, ‘optimize’ makes it sound like we’re building robots, not just trying to lift our shopping bags without collapsing into a heap of pain.
What’s functional training, you ask? Let’s just say it’s like the “Practical Magic” of exercise—full of functions that let you tackle everyday tasks without looking like a drunk octopus. In fact, it enhances athletic performance, reduces injury risk, and helps older folks negotiate the mystery of getting off the couch. But until now, the literature was a bit thin on how these exercises would specifically tackle the fibromyalgia fiend. So, shout-out to the researchers for finally putting those worries to rest!
But wait, there’s more! Another recent study took a turn towards the digital realm-especially if your couch has become more of a throne than a seat. This was the realm of digital acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which, if you’re anything like me, sounds more like a corporate buzzword than actual therapy. But lo and behold! It proved to be safe and effective for managing fibromyalgia pain. Like an online therapy session where you can binge-watch cat videos between guided meditations. At 12 weeks, a whopping 99% of ACT participants reported an improvement, while a paltry 22% of the “active control” group was contemplating how they managed to stand up without leaning against a wall. Doesn’t that make you feel better about your coping mechanisms? Schools should offer this training as “How to Use the Internet Effectively for Self-Help.”
And for those who love numbers, here’s the juicy bit—there was a 48.4% proportional difference in perceived improvements from the ACT group over the control. I don’t claim to be a mathematician, but that sounds like a classic case of “one of these things is not like the other!” It’s clear that for folks battling with FM, functional exercise and digital acceptance therapy could be a match made in holistic heaven.
In Conclusion
So, my lovely readers, if you’re navigating the choppy waters of fibromyalgia, maybe it’s time to rethink the stretchy routine. No offense to those yoga poses—you know they can be as useful as a chocolate teapot sometimes! So, consider swinging your way into functional exercises and perhaps even dabble in the digital therapies that have proven to be the real MVP for many. After all, if you’re going to deal with pain, you might as well do it while also getting a decent workout—preferably one that doesn’t require a post-workout nap as your main recovery strategy!
Remember, no one’s immune to the absurdity of life—but figuring out the best ways to navigate it? Well, that’s just brilliant! Pain management has come a long way, and it looks like we all might have a little more bounce in our step soon!
References
- 1. Fernandes, G., Nery, M., Meireles, S.M. et al. A functional exercise program improves pain and health-related quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Adv Rheumatol 64, 81 (2024).
- 2. Gendreau RM, McCracken LM, Williams DA, et al. Self-guided digital behavioral therapy versus active control for fibromyalgia (PROSPER-FM): a phase 3, multicenter, randomized controlled trial. Lancet. 2024; 404(10450): 364-374.
There you have it! A delightful blend of humor and information inspired by the likes of Carr, Atkinson, Gervais, and Evans. Enjoy!
**Interview with Giovana Fernandes: Exploring Functional Training for Fibromyalgia Relief**
**Editor:** Welcome, Giovana Fernandes, lead investigator of the recent study on functional training for fibromyalgia patients. Your research has shed light on how functional exercises might alleviate pain and improve quality of life for those suffering from this condition. Can you give us an overview of the main findings of your study?
**Giovana Fernandes:** Thank you for having me! Our study demonstrated that a 12-week functional training program significantly reduced pain and enhanced the quality of life in fibromyalgia patients. Unlike traditional stretching exercises, which often provide minimal benefits, functional training specifically targets the skills needed for daily activities, allowing individuals to perform tasks more effectively and with less discomfort.
**Editor:** That sounds promising! How does functional training differ in approach from usual exercise regimens, especially for those with fibromyalgia?
**Giovana Fernandes:** Functional training is all about relevance to daily activities. It focuses on improving movement patterns that people use in their everyday lives. For fibromyalgia patients, it includes exercises that help with strength, balance, and coordination, which can be particularly beneficial since this condition often leads to limitations in these areas. This approach is about empowering individuals to manage their own pain rather than solely addressing the symptoms.
**Editor:** Interesting! In addition to functional training, your study also mentioned digital acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Can you elaborate on its role in managing fibromyalgia?
**Giovana Fernandes:** Absolutely! ACT is a structured type of cognitive behavioral therapy that helps individuals accept their thoughts and feelings rather than avoiding or fighting them. Our findings indicated that participants engaging in ACT reported significant improvements in their symptoms and overall well-being, with 99% noting positive changes over 12 weeks. It’s a new avenue that combines psychological support with practical strategies to tackle the challenges of fibromyalgia, providing a comprehensive approach to treatment.
**Editor:** It’s clear that both functional training and ACT offer complementary benefits. What advice would you give to individuals with fibromyalgia who are considering incorporating these methods into their lives?
**Giovana Fernandes:** I would encourage them to consult healthcare professionals to develop a personalized plan that includes both functional training and possibly ACT. It’s essential to start slowly and gradually increase intensity, ensuring that they listen to their bodies and focus on enjoying movement without added stress. Support groups or accessing digital resources can also provide encouragement and motivation on this journey.
**Editor:** Thank you, Giovana, for your valuable insights and the important work you’re doing in the fight against fibromyalgia. Your research truly is a beacon of hope for many!
**Giovana Fernandes:** Thank you! I’m hopeful that our findings will inspire more people to explore these effective approaches and improve their quality of life!
