In a pilot randomized controlled non-pharmacological trial, it was observed that engaging in physical activity improved outcomes in fibromyalgia. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a 12-week home-based multicomponent physical activity intervention, including aerobic and resistance training as well as mobility exercises, in improving IntraEpidermal Nerve Fibers Density (IENFD), fibromyalgia-related disability, and pain perception among adults with fibromyalgia.

Overall, 34 female participants diagnosed with fibromyalgia (51.5±11.88 years of age) were randomized into two arms. The experimental group (n=17) received a supervised home-based multicomponent physical activity intervention two times weekly, while the control group (n=17) followed a generic aerobic exercise program. Skin biopsy was carried out prior to the commencement of the physical programs and following 18 months of consistent execution of either the supervised physical activity intervention or the generic aerobic exercise.

Both groups concurrently underwent pharmacological treatment with Pregabalin and/or Duloxetine. The group engaging in regular and supervised physical activity demonstrated a noteworthy enhancement in both the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) scores and epidermal fiber density at both proximal and distal sites. Hence, incorporating physical activity yielded potential benefits by positively influencing peripheral factors associated with pain-related disability.