[Effects of a programme of aquatic Ai Chi exercise in patients with fibromyalgia. A pilot study].

INTRODUCTION: Fibromyalgia is rheumathological disease a combination of physical, psychological and social limitations. The aim of the present study is to determinate the benefits of Ai Chi program on quality of life, depression and pain. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An experimental study was performed with 20 fibromyalgia patients two different cities. Outcome measures were functional capacity (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire), pain (Visual Analogue Scale) and quality of life (Short Form-36). Measures were performed at baseline and after ten weeks post-intervention. RESULTS: After ten weeks of treatment, the results showed significant reduction (p < 0,05) in virtually all outcome measures. CONCLUSION: An Ai Chi aquatic therapy programme contributes to reduce pain and improve quality of life as well as physical and mental health in patients with fibromyalgia.