Use of a mechanical massage technique in the treatment of fibromyalgia: a preliminary study.

Abstract

To investigate how a mechanical massage technique (LPG technique) could contribute to the treatment of fibromyalgia. Feasibility study. A single center. Ten women having a preexisting diagnosis of fibromyalgia based on American College of Rheumatology criteria were enrolled. Subjects received a total of 15 sessions of mechanical massage administered by a physical therapist once a week. The Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and a physical examination scoring tender points (number, pain intensity). Evaluations were conducted at the screening visit, after 7 sessions (V7), and after completion of 15 sessions (V15). Most of the parameters (pain intensity, physical function, number of tender points) showed a significant improvement at V15 compared with screening. The findings suggest the possibility that the studied intervention might be associated with positive outcomes in women with fibromyalgia, and support the need for a controlled clinical trial to determine its efficacy.