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ABSTRACT
Objective: To compare the aerobic capacity in Chinese women with fibromyalgia syndrome [FMS] with that of normal subjects, and to investigate the relationship between aerobic capacity, health status, and disease-related variables in patients with FMS.
Methods: Aerobic capacity was obtained in 31 Chinese women with FMS and 31 healthy normal controls using open-circuit spirometry on a bicycle ergometer. The Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire [FIQ], Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ], tender point index, and grip strength were collected for each subject with FMS. According to the exercise habits, both the FMS group and the control group were divided into an exercise group and a nonexercise group. Assessment of aerobic capacity and related parameters was blinded.
Results: Patients with FMS had reduced aerobic capacity and grip strength, and their aerobic capacity had fairly negative correlation with the HAQ, tender point index, and physical function subclass of FIQ. No significant difference in the aerobic capacity between exercise and nonexercise groups was observed in subjects with FMS, while the aerobic capacity of the exercise group in normal subjects was significantly better than that of the nonexercise group [p = .000].
Conclusion: Aerobic capacity was reduced in Chinese women with FMS and had fairly negative correlation with functional ability and quality of life. Both FMS and control groups exhibited a lower aerobic capacity than that of Western populations.