Photobiomodulation with progressive dosing associated with a resisted exercise protocol: effects on the pain level and quality of life of women with fibromyalgia: a controlled, randomized and blind study

• Grant number: 20/01622-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: June 01, 2021
• End date: July 31, 2021
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Ana Claudia Muniz Renno
• Grantee: Ana Beatriz Balão
• Host Institution: Instituto de Saúde e Sociedade (ISS). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Baixada Santista. Santos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic generalized muscle pain, which affects mainly women. Several studies have already shown that resistance physical exercises are effective for improving pain and quality of life in this population; other studies have already shown that photobiomodulation (FBM) is also effective in this regard. However, there is no consensus in the literature regarding the best parameters of FBM to treat patients with FM, as well as the best type of exercise used. Thus, the objective of this study will be to verify the effect of the association of a program of resistance exercises and FBM in the pain and in the quality of life women with FM. Twenty women will be randomized and divided into two groups: GEFA: resistance exercise group and active FBM or GEFP: resistance exercise group and placebo FBM. During the clinical evaluation, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for Pain, Temporal Sum of Pain, Conditioned Pain Modulation, the Fibromyalgia Impact questionnaires (FIQ) will be applied; Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), physical activity level (IPAQ), and muscle strength assessment. Interventions with resistance physical exercise and FBM will last for 12 weeks, twice a week. The statistical analysis will include the description of the variables, both qualitative and quantitative. The correlation between the variables will also be analyzed. A significance level of 5% will be adopted. (AU)