Efficacy of rehabilitation treatments in improving functioning in patients with fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating condition marked by persistent pain and reduced functionality. Various therapeutic methods have been suggested to alleviate symptoms in individuals with fibromyalgia, yet the impact of diverse rehabilitation strategies remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE:

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at assessing the efficacy of rehabilitation interventions in improving functioning in fibromyalgia patients.

METHODS:

We conducted a comprehensive literature search of multiple international databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) from their inception until November 22^nd, 2023. We identified 23 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing multiple rehabilitation strategies. The primary outcome was the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool for Randomized Trials (RoB 2). The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020197666).

RESULTS:

Our meta-analysis rehabilitation interventions significantly reduce FIQ scores (MD $=-$ 11.74, 95% CI: $-$ 16.88 to $-$ 6.59, $p<$ 0.0001). Notably, the subgroup analysis showed that different rehabilitation modalities seem to induce different therapeutic responses.

CONCLUSIONS:

Rehabilitation strategies hold promise in addressing the functional impairments and improving the overall well-being of individuals with fibromyalgia. The study underscores the need for further research to determine the optimal rehabilitation approach and its potential impact on the multilevel disability characterizing patients with fibromyalgia.