Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterised by widespread, persistent, non-inflammatory musculoskeletal pain. Patients are physically debilitated and consequently have difficulty with daily routine activities. Resistance exercises are thought to have a significant benefit on the individual's condition. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to review the findings of the research on the effectiveness of resistance exercise in patients with fibromyalgia. Methods: PubMed, PEDro and Cochrane Library databases were used to search for literature. We included studies investigating the effectiveness of resistance exercise in fibromyalgia patients published up to September 2021. Results: The review included seven randomised controlled trials published between 2002 and 2021. Five studies out of seven reported a reduction in pain intensity. Five studies out of five reported an improvement in muscle performance. One study out of two reported an improvement in walking ability. Two studies out of six reported an improvement in quality of life. One study out of two reported an improvement in the general well-being of the subjects. One study out of two reported a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Discussion and Conclusion: Resistance exercise has been shown to be equally or more effective than interventions in comparison group in patients with fibromyalgia. It improves muscle performance, health status, overall quality of life and reduces pain. Further research is needed with a larger number of subjects, male subjects included, and a test of long-term effects.
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