Comparison of education and balneotherapy effectiveness in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome

Background: Fibromyalgia is a common disease characterized by chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain. Several hypotheses have been developed to explain the etiopathogenesis of fibromyalgia, but the cause of fibromiyalgia is currently unkonown. Pharmacological and non pharmacological treatments used in the treatment of fibromyalgia. In our study, we aimed to determine the effectiveness of the educational therapy on patients. In addition, we aimed to evaluate the efficiency of education and balneotherapy in fibromiyalgia Methods: Out of Gaziantep University, Medicine Faculty, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation visitors from February 2013 to January 2014, 66 female patients, aged 18-55, diagnosed as fibromyalgia according to 2010 ACR diagnostic criteria were included in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to either a educational therapy group or educational therapy and balneotherapy group. All patients were assessed at the beginning of the study, 15. day, 1st month, 3rd month and 6th month. Demographic information about the patients were recorded. Patients were evaluated by the number of tender points, visual analogue scale, Hamilton depression scale, Hamilton anxiety scale, modified fatigue impact scale, Notthingham health profile. Results: In education theraphy group, were stated improvements in all parameters except Notthingham health profile physical activity subscale. In education and balneotherapy group, were determined improvements in all parameters. Educational treatment group compared with the education and balneotherapy group. 3 month follow up, education and balneotherapy group was found to be superior in all parameters.