Combining mat Pilates and electro-muscle stimulation enhances fibromyalgia care

Fibromyalgia is a common chronic rheumatological disorder. A study exploring how an eight-week regimen of mat Pilates combined with electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) affects various symptoms and physical strength in women with fibromyalgia was published in the “Journal of Personalized Medicine”.

In this single-blind randomized controlled trial, 30 sedentary women with fibromyalgia were divided into two groups: Pilates and EMS. They underwent various assessments, including Beck's depression and anxiety inventories, fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ), handgrip strength (HGS), deep squat (DSQ), V-sit flexor, bent-arm hang (BA), five different single leg hop tests (SLHTs), sit up and Biering-Sorensen tests, modified push-up (MPU), and anthropometric tests before and after the eight-week intervention. The combined Pilates and EMS program led to significant improvements in body measurements (except chest circumference), depression and anxiety levels, fibromyalgia impact, and overall strength (both lower and upper body, as well as core). The combination of mat Pilates and EMS is a promising and effective approach for alleviating symptoms and enhancing strength in women dealing with fibromyalgia.