Assessment of the efficacy and safety of the hyperbaric oxygen therapy on pain in patients with fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

Review question / Objective: A few studies have addressed the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in patients with fibromyalgia. However, these studies have been inconclusive so far. There is no graded evidence in the form of a systematic review or meta-analysis concerning the administration of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to patients with fibromyalgia. The proposed study would be carried out to assess the efficacy and safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in reducing pain in patients with fibromyalgia. Primary Objective: To compare the efficacy of HBOT with the standard conventional therapy in patients with fibromyalgia of age 18 years and more. Secondary Objectives: i. To compare the adverse effects (for safety) of HBOT with the standard conventional therapy in patients with fibromyalgia of age 18 years and more; ii. To compare the change in the quality of life, sleep quality, functional impairment, depression, anxiety, and psychological distress by HBOT as compared with the standard conventional therapy in patients with fibromyalgia of age 18 years and more.