BACKGROUND

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic disorder causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, often leading to physical deconditioning that affects posture and gait. This study evaluates the effects of a manual therapy protocol targeting dorsal muscles in the lower back on plantar pressure modifications, considering body mass index (BMI) influence.

METHODS

A single-arm, non-randomized clinical trial included 24 women diagnosed with FM for at least three years. They underwent an eight-session manual therapy protocol over four weeks, applying moderate pressure to dorsal muscles in the lower back. Baropodometric analyses were conducted pre- and post-intervention under dynamic conditions. Statistical analyses used paired -tests and effect size calculations to assess intervention effects and BMI impact.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in plantar pressure distribution were observed in both the left foot ( = 0.01, d = -0.54) and the right foot ( = 0.008, d = -0.59). However, strength and peak pressure metrics showed no significant changes. Patients with normal BMI exhibited greater improvements than those in the overweight category.

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary findings suggest that manual therapy positively influenced plantar pressure distribution in FM patients, particularly in those with normal BMI. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and broader clinical applications.