RESEARCH

Effectiveness of a Multicomponent Treatment for Fibromyalgia Based on Pain Neuroscience Education, Exercise Therapy, Psychological Support, and Nature Exposure (NAT-FM): A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial

The 12-week NAT-FM program significantly reduced fibromyalgia symptoms, including pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and functional impairment, with large improvements observed in emotional regulation and self-confidence. Nature-based activities like yoga and Shinrin Yoku played a key role in enhancing mood and reducing stress, making this approach a promising complementary therapy for managing fibromyalgia.
Print Form

Summary

This study tested the effectiveness of a 12-week multicomponent treatment for fibromyalgia (NAT-FM), which combined pain neuroscience education, exercise therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and nature-based activities like yoga, Nordic walking, and Shinrin Yoku. Researchers compared this approach to standard care in 169 patients. The results showed that the NAT-FM program significantly improved functional impairment, pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and physical function. Participants also reported reduced fear of movement (kinesiophobia), fewer negative thoughts about pain (catastrophizing), and increased self-confidence and emotional regulation. These improvements were observed as early as six weeks into the program and were sustained at the end of the treatment.

The study highlighted the unique benefits of integrating nature exposure into fibromyalgia treatment. Activities like yoga and Shinrin Yoku were particularly effective in reducing stress and improving mood and self-efficacy. The findings suggest that NAT-FM could be an effective add-on therapy for fibromyalgia, offering significant physical and emotional relief while promoting better overall well-being. Future research is needed to explore its long-term effects and refine the program for broader use.

Link

Serrat, M., Almirall, M., Musté, M. et al. (2020). Effectiveness of a multicomponent treatment for fibromyalgia based on pain neuroscience education, exercise therapy, psychological support, and nature exposure (NAT-FM): A pragmatic randomized controlled trial. J Clin Med., 9(10), 3348.

 

Other Recommended Research

Soil Testing

Participants test the PH and nutrition of different types of soil.

Root Vegetable Guessing Game

Participants learn about different types of root vegetables and how they grow.

Hardiness Zones Discussion

Participants discuss Hardiness Zones in different countries

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .