Optimal aerobic exercise dose for pain relief in fibromyalgia syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disorder marked by widespread pain. While aerobic exercise (AE) is widely recommended, its isolated effect and the optimal regimen and dose remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify the independent effect of pure AE on pain in FMS and identify the most effective exercise parameters and dose-response relationship.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science up to June 2025 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining AE's effect on FMS pain. Subgroup analyses were performed by age, baseline pain level, exercise type, and protocol characteristics. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and dose-response relationships were explored.

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12719272 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature