Pilates method on pain control in patients with fibromyalgia

Abstract

Introduction: Although the Pilates Method is commonly used for the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM) in clinical practice, the number of studies is scarce and little is known about its real effectiveness in pain management. Objective: To systematically review the literature to determine whether the Pilates affects pain control in FM patients. Methods: A search of PubMed, Science Direct, PEDro and Cochrane databases was performed to identify randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of the Pilates in individuals diagnosed with FM. The descriptors used were: “pilates based exercise” OR “pilates training” OR “pilates exercise” OR “pilates” AND “fibromyalgia.” Independent reviewers performed abstract/full-text screening, data extraction, and methodological quality assessments using PEDro scale. Results: The search identified 646 potential articles; 4 were used in the analysis. The Pilates Method had positive effects on pain control, improvement of function, quality of life and biopsychosocial factors such as stress and depression in individuals with FM in four studies. However, improvement in these parameters was not different between intervention groups in three studies. Additionally, the control group did not show significant improvement for the same parameters in one study. The PEDro scale scores of the studies ranged from 6 to 8 points. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that the Pilates has an influence on pain control in individuals with FM, and is more effective than no intervention or minimal intervention in the treatment of FM.