Representações da relação entre exercício físico e saúde por pacientes fibromiálgicos

Abstract

The fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is characterized by widespread chronic musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, disturbed sleep and associated symptoms. Its increasing prevalence and life quality impairment of patients justify researches for its control. Physical exercise (PE) is a relevant therapeutic tool among nonpharmachologic treatments options. It is important to mind the impact of FMS and different therapeutics on health, here understood as a set of dimensions: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, intellectual and professional. This study aimed to identify FMS patients' perception of relationship between PE and health. It used the theoretical methodological reference of Social Representation to study 22 women of a multidisciplinary project: Physical Education, Nutrition, Medicine and Psychology. Data analysis considered transcription of recorded semistructured interview, and interpretation of patients' illustrations. There were improvements in physical dimension evidenced by pain relief. Positive effects were also observed in emotional dimension, evidenced by self-esteem improvement, which appeared in the pictures. Based on the theory adopted, it was possible to identify that patients recognize a positive relationship between PE and health.