Objective: Compare degree of improvement can reach patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome, by treatment with Manipulative and Massage Techniques versus an exercise program for lower thoracic and cervical spine. Study Design: A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted on patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Setting: Clinical setting. Methods: Sixty-four subjects with FMS were randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving manipulative and massage therapy, or to a control group for exercise program.
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed Fibromyalgia Syndrome. * Limitation of usual activities due to pain on at least 1 day in the previous 30 days. * Agreement to attend evening therapy sessions. * Non-practice of regular physical activity. Exclusion Criteria: * A history of surgery. * The presence of comorbid conditions (e.g., morbid obesity, inflammatory diseases, irritable bowel syndrome and interstitial cystitis). * A history of whiplash injury. * Severe physical disability. * Uncontrolled endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, diabetes). * Illness (e.g., schizophrenia or substance abuse). * The use of medication other than as-needed analgesics (excluding long-term narcotics). * Malignancy. * Psychiatric disorders. * A score of ≥ 9 points in the Beck depression inventory.