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Fitzmaurice BC, Grenfell RL, Heneghan NR, Rayen ATA, Soundy AA. The Fibromyalgia Decomposition Phenomenon: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:47. [PMID: 38247699 PMCID: PMC10813499 DOI: 10.3390/bs14010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Research is needed that can provide an illustration of the different biopsychosocial and environmental experiences of people with fibromyalgia to consider how healthcare professionals can best engage with the challenges that are faced. Qualitative research is well-positioned to do this. The current study used interpretive hermeneutic phenomenology situated within a pragmatic worldview, the aim being to obtain a deeper exploration of the fibromyalgia experience prior to commencing a novel intervention. A purposive sample of individuals with fibromyalgia were selected to undertake a single interview. The interviews were analysed using a thematic analysis. The themes identified key processes of the experience. A total of 16 participants (mean age: 47.1 years) took part. Three themes and 15 sub-themes were identified, together with a process linking different experiences together. The research from this small cohort provides a clear identification of multiple components influencing the experience of fibromyalgia and the decisions around lifestyle and choices made. From this, a novel decomposition/recomposition spiral has been identified, which will benefit patients and healthcare professionals alike. An earlier diagnosis and, thus, earlier and broader treatment options can help to improve functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany C. Fitzmaurice
- Department of Pain Management, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham B18 7QH, UK;
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (N.R.H.); (A.A.S.)
| | - Rebecca L. Grenfell
- Clinical Research Facility, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham B71 4HJ, UK;
| | - Nicola R. Heneghan
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (N.R.H.); (A.A.S.)
| | - Asius T. A. Rayen
- Department of Pain Management, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham B18 7QH, UK;
| | - Andrew A. Soundy
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (N.R.H.); (A.A.S.)
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Ram PR, Jeyaraman M, Jeyaraman N, Nallakumarasamy A, Khanna M, Gupta A, Yadav S. Beyond the Pain: A Systematic Narrative Review of the Latest Advancements in Fibromyalgia Treatment. Cureus 2023; 15:e48032. [PMID: 38034135 PMCID: PMC10687844 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain disorder that significantly impacts the quality of life of affected individuals. The etiology of fibromyalgia remains elusive, necessitating effective treatment options. This review aims to provide an overview of current treatment options for fibromyalgia and highlight recent updates in managing the condition. The methodology employed in this systematic review comprised the following key steps. We conducted a comprehensive search across various databases to identify pertinent studies published between 2000 and 2023. Inclusion criteria were defined to specifically target studies involving adult individuals diagnosed with fibromyalgia, with a focus on both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for managing the condition. The review encompassed a range of study types, including randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews. To ensure the quality of the selected studies, we employed appropriate assessment tools, and data extraction and synthesis adhered to established guidelines. This rigorous approach allowed for a robust analysis of the literature on fibromyalgia management. In the course of our review, it became evident that a spectrum of treatment approaches holds significant promise in the management of fibromyalgia. Specifically, pharmacological interventions, including selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, anticonvulsants, cannabinoids, tropisetron, and sodium oxybate, have exhibited substantial potential in alleviating fibromyalgia symptoms. Concurrently, non-pharmacological strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise regimens, and complementary and alternative therapies, have yielded positive outcomes in improving the condition's management. Recent developments in the field have introduced innovative pharmacological agents like milnacipran and pregabalin, in addition to non-pharmacological interventions like mindfulness-based stress reduction and aquatic exercise, expanding the array of options available to enhance fibromyalgia care and alleviating patient symptoms. Fibromyalgia necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, encompassing both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Recent updates in fibromyalgia management offer additional options to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with fibromyalgia. Healthcare professionals should remain informed about these advancements to provide evidence-based care, addressing the complex symptoms associated with fibromyalgia and enhancing patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pothuri R Ram
- Orthopaedics and Trauma, Sanjay Gandhi Institute of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Bengaluru, IND
| | - Madhan Jeyaraman
- Orthopaedics, South Texas Orthopaedic Research Institute, Laredo, USA
- Orthopaedics, A.C.S. Medical College and Hospital, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, IND
| | - Naveen Jeyaraman
- Orthopaedics, A.C.S. Medical College and Hospital, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, IND
| | - Arulkumar Nallakumarasamy
- Orthopaedics, A.C.S. Medical College and Hospital, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, IND
| | - Manish Khanna
- Orthopaedics, Autonomous State Medical College, Ayodhya, IND
| | - Ashim Gupta
- Regenerative Medicine, Regenerative Orthopaedics, Noida, IND
- Regenerative Medicine, Future Biologics, Lawrenceville, USA
- Regenerative Medicine, BioIntegrate, Lawrenceville, USA
- Orthopaedics, South Texas Orthopaedic Research Institute, Laredo, USA
| | - Sankalp Yadav
- Medicine, Shri Madan Lal Khurana Chest Clinic, New Delhi, IND
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Varrassi G, Rekatsina M, Perrot S, Bouajina E, Paladini A, Coaccioli S, Narvaez Tamayo MA, Sarzi Puttini P. Is Fibromyalgia a Fashionable Diagnosis or a Medical Mystery? Cureus 2023; 15:e44852. [PMID: 37809234 PMCID: PMC10560069 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite its prevalence, there is no clear-cut diagnostic path or treatment paradigm for fibromyalgia; this can lead to a multiplicity of symptoms and comorbid conditions that complicate care. "Overlapping symptoms" describe conditions that can occur concomitantly with fibromyalgia and include migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, and pelvic pain syndromes. A variety of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments are available for fibromyalgia, but treatment is best personalized for an individual and recognizes potential comorbidities. Opioids are not the recommended front-line treatment, cannabinoids hold promise but with limitations and nonpharmacologic options, such as aerobic or resistance exercise and cognitive behavior therapy, can play a very important but often underestimated role. Amitriptyline appears to be safe and effective in treating six of the main fibromyalgia domains: pain, disturbed sleep, fatigue, affective symptoms, functional limitations, and impaired cognition ("fibro fog"). Very low-dose naltrexone (2.5-4.5 mg) may offer analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits to fibromyalgia patients, but further studies are needed. Fibromyalgia can be a devastating and debilitating condition for patients, and clinicians are challenged with its diagnosis and treatment as well. Further research as well as compassionate approaches to offering personalized care to those with fibromyalgia are required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elyse Bouajina
- Rheumatology, Farhat Hached University Hospital Center, Sousse, TUN
| | - Antonella Paladini
- Life, Health and Environmental Sciences (MESVA), University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, ITA
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Fitzmaurice BC, Heneghan NR, Rayen ATA, Grenfell RL, Soundy AA. Whole-Body Photobiomodulation Therapy for Fibromyalgia: A Feasibility Trial. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:717. [PMID: 37753995 PMCID: PMC10525895 DOI: 10.3390/bs13090717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective treatment for fibromyalgia (FM) is lacking and further treatment options are needed. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) represents one potential treatment option. Whilst favourable findings have been reported using localised PBMT, no investigations have established the value of whole-body PBMT for the complete set of symptom domains in FM. A single-arm feasibility study was conducted in accordance with CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) guidelines. A non-probability sampling method was used to access individuals with FM. The primary outcome measure was identified as the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR). Forty-nine participants were screened and twenty-one trial participants entered the trial. Nineteen participants completed the intervention (18 whole-body PBMT sessions over approximately six weeks). Descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis was undertaken to represent feasibility outcomes. Acceptability of the trial device and processes were established. Outcome measures towards efficacy data were guided by core and peripheral OMERACT (outcomes measures in rheumatological clinical trials) domains, utilising a combination of participant-reported and performance-based outcome measures. Data for the embedded qualitative component of the trial were captured by participant-reported experience measures and audio-recorded semi-structured interviews. Positive changes were observed for FM-specific quality of life, pain, tenderness, stiffness, fatigue, sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment. Patient global assessment revealed improvements at 6 weeks, with continued effect at 24 weeks. FM-specific quality of life at 24 weeks remained improved compared with baseline scores. The findings provided evidence to support a full-scale trial and showed promise regarding potential efficacy of this novel non-invasive treatment in an FM population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany C. Fitzmaurice
- Department of Pain Management, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham B71 4HJ, UK;
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (N.R.H.); (A.A.S.)
| | - Nicola R. Heneghan
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (N.R.H.); (A.A.S.)
| | - Asius T. A. Rayen
- Department of Pain Management, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham B71 4HJ, UK;
| | - Rebecca L. Grenfell
- Clinical Research Facility, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham B71 4HJ, UK;
| | - Andrew A. Soundy
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (N.R.H.); (A.A.S.)
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Hershkovich O, Hayun Y, Oscar N, Shtein A, Lotan R. The role of cannabis in treatment-resistant fibromyalgia women. Pain Pract 2023; 23:180-184. [PMID: 36333278 PMCID: PMC10100523 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia is a complex pain-focused syndrome. Previous studies showed that Cannabis is efficacious in promoting sleep, deepening and lengthening the sleep cycle, and good pain relief (compared with the SSRIs and SNRIs). PURPOSE This study aimed to use the World Health Organization Quality of Life Bref questionnaire (WhoQoL-bref) to characterize the impact of Cannabis Treatment initiation on the quality of life in women suffering from treatment-resistant fibromyalgia. METHODS A prospective cohort study involving 30 women aged 18-70 years old diagnosed with fibromyalgia, exhausted pharmacological fibromyalgia treatment, and started Cannabis treatment. Pregnant women were excluded. WhoQoL-bref was filled before Cannabis treatment initiation and 1 month following treatment. RESULTS Women's average age was 46 years (±5), with a poor general quality of life (1.47 ± 0.63), poor general health (1.47 ± 0.78), pain and discomfort, and dependence on medication (3.77 ± 1.3 and 3.07 ± 1.74, respectively) prior to Cannabis intervention. Cannabis treatment for 30 days showed a marked improvement in general quality of life (1.97 scores, p < 0.01), general health (1.83, p < 0.01), physical health (1.5, p < 0.01), and psychological domain (1.3, p < 0.01). Financial resources and home environment were not influenced by cannabis treatment (p = 0.07, p = 0.31, respectively). CONCLUSION Results suggest a potentially significant role of Cannabis in treatment-resistant Fibromyalgia women. Early Cannabis treatment may result in a beneficial short-term effect on the quality of life through its influence on pain, sleep, and physical and psychological domains. Further studies are still indicated to understand this potential and its long-term beneficial impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oded Hershkovich
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wolfson Medical Center (affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel), Holon, Israel
| | - Yemima Hayun
- Pain Service Unit, Wolfson Medical Center (affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel), Holon, Israel
| | - Nataly Oscar
- Pain Service Unit, Wolfson Medical Center (affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel), Holon, Israel
| | - Arnold Shtein
- Pain Service Unit, Wolfson Medical Center (affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel), Holon, Israel
| | - Raphael Lotan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wolfson Medical Center (affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel), Holon, Israel
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Pinto AM, Geenen R, Wager TD, Lumley MA, Häuser W, Kosek E, Ablin JN, Amris K, Branco J, Buskila D, Castelhano J, Castelo-Branco M, Crofford LJ, Fitzcharles MA, López-Solà M, Luís M, Marques TR, Mease PJ, Palavra F, Rhudy JL, Uddin LQ, Castilho P, Jacobs JWG, da Silva JAP. Emotion regulation and the salience network: a hypothetical integrative model of fibromyalgia. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:44-60. [PMID: 36471023 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-022-00873-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and other symptoms, and has a substantial socioeconomic impact. Current biomedical and psychosocial treatments are unsatisfactory for many patients, and treatment progress has been hindered by the lack of a clear understanding of the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia. We present here a model of fibromyalgia that integrates current psychosocial and neurophysiological observations. We propose that an imbalance in emotion regulation, reflected by an overactive 'threat' system and underactive 'soothing' system, might keep the 'salience network' (also known as the midcingulo-insular network) in continuous alert mode, and this hyperactivation, in conjunction with other mechanisms, contributes to fibromyalgia. This proposed integrative model, which we term the Fibromyalgia: Imbalance of Threat and Soothing Systems (FITSS) model, should be viewed as a working hypothesis with limited supporting evidence available. We hope, however, that this model will shed new light on existing psychosocial and biological observations, and inspire future research to address the many gaps in our knowledge about fibromyalgia, ultimately stimulating the development of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Pinto
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Psychological Medicine Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rinie Geenen
- Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Altrecht Psychosomatic Medicine Eikenboom, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - Tor D Wager
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Mark A Lumley
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Winfried Häuser
- Department Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Eva Kosek
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jacob N Ablin
- Internal Medicine H, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
| | - Kirstine Amris
- The Parker Institute, Department of Rheumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Jaime Branco
- Rheumatology Department, Egas Moniz Hospital - Lisboa Ocidental Hospital Centre (CHLO-EPE), Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Chronic Diseases Research Centre (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, NOVA University Lisbon (NMS/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dan Buskila
- Ben Gurion University of the Negev Beer-Sheba, Beersheba, Israel
| | - João Castelhano
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), ICNAS, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), ICNAS, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Leslie J Crofford
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marina López-Solà
- Serra Hunter Programme, Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariana Luís
- Rheumatology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tiago Reis Marques
- Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Philip J Mease
- Swedish Medical Center/Providence St. Joseph Health, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Filipe Palavra
- Centre for Child Development, Neuropediatric Unit, Paediatric Hospital, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (i.CBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jamie L Rhudy
- Department of Psychology, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Lucina Q Uddin
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Paula Castilho
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Johannes W G Jacobs
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - José A P da Silva
- University of Coimbra, University Clinic of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Rheumatology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (i.CBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Hijne K, van Eck van der Sluijs JF, van Broeckhuysen-Kloth SAM, Lucassen PLBJ, Reinders M, Tak LM, Gerritsen L, Geenen R. Individual treatment goals and factors influencing goal attainment in patients with somatic symptom disorder from the perspective of clinicians: A concept mapping study. J Psychosom Res 2022; 154:110712. [PMID: 34999524 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Overviews of treatment goals and influencing factors may support shared decision making and optimize customized treatment to the patient with somatic symptom disorder (SSD). The aim of this study was to identify and structure comprehensive sets of treatment goals and factors influencing goal attainment in patients with SSD from the perspective of clinicians. METHODS Using a concept mapping procedure, clinicians participated in interviews (N = 17) and card sorting tasks comprising 55 treatment goals and 55 factors influencing goal attainment (N = 38). RESULTS We identified four overarching categories (A to D) of nine clusters (1 to 9) of treatment goals: A. empowerment (A1. personal values, A2. committed action, A3. self-esteem), B. skill improvement (B4. interpersonal skills, B5. emotion and stress regulation), C. symptom reduction (C6. dysfunctional beliefs, C7. somatic symptoms, C8. psychological symptoms), and D9. active and structured lifestyle. Also, we identified four overarching categories (A to D) of nine clusters (1 to 9) of factors influencing goal attainment: A1. therapeutic alliance, B. social and everyday context (B2. [family] system, B3. meaningful daily schedule, B4. social and economic circumstances), C. ability to change (C5. externalizing tendency, C6. reflective and psychological skills, C7. perspective and motivation), and D. psychological vulnerability (D8. vulnerable personality, D9. [psychiatric] comorbidity). CONCLUSION The overviews of treatment goals and factors influencing goal attainment reflect different paradigmatic backgrounds of clinicians. The results can be used, in combination with the perspective of the patient, to define treatment goals, and to monitor and evaluate change in outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Hijne
- Altrecht Psychosomatic Medicine Eikenboom, Zeist, the Netherlands; Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | | | | | - Peter L B J Lucassen
- Radboud University Nijmegen, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department of Primary and Community Care, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Michel Reinders
- GGZ inGeest Specialized Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Lotte Gerritsen
- Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rinie Geenen
- Altrecht Psychosomatic Medicine Eikenboom, Zeist, the Netherlands; Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Bailly F. The challenge of differentiating fibromyalgia from small-fiber neuropathy in clinical practice. Joint Bone Spine 2021; 88:105232. [PMID: 34082128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2021.105232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia and small fibre neuropathy are two diseases leading to chronic widespread pain, and it is difficult to differentiate them in order to provide appropriate care. In this review, we will describe the pathophysiological and clinical differences between fibromyalgia and small fibre neuropathy. In fibromyalgia, pain is increased by dysregulation of central pain processing while small fibre neuropathy pain is related to loss or dysfunction of intraepidermal small nerve fibres. Higher pain intensity; stabbing pain and paraesthesia; allodynia; dry eyes/mouth; changed pattern or sweating on body; skin colour alterations/modifications; reduced hair/nail growth on lower extremities; warm or cold hypoesthesia could be more common in small fibre neuropathy whereas headache or temporo-mandibular disorder point toward fibromyalgia. Length-dependent distribution of pain is common in small fibre neuropathy but can also affect the whole body. Anxiety or depression are common in these two diseases, but post-traumatic stress disorder and physical or sexual abuse in childhood or adulthood suggest fibromyalgia. Inflammatory disease or musculoskeletal disease is frequently reported with fibromyalgia whereas metabolic disorders (especially diabetes mellitus), neurotoxic exposure, Sjogren's syndrome, sarcoidosis, HIV are the main diseases associated with small fibre neuropathy. Skin biopsy, quantitative sensory testing, laser evoked potentials, confocal corneal microscopy or electrochemical skin conductance can help to discriminate between fibromyalgia and small fibre neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Bailly
- Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière - Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Rheumatology department, Pain unit, 47-83, boulevard de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France.
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9
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Masquelier E, D'haeyere J. Physical activity in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Joint Bone Spine 2021; 88:105202. [PMID: 33962033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2021.105202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
International treatment recommendations for fibromyalgia (FM) highlight the importance of adapted physical activity (APA) combined with patient education. Cognitive and behavioral therapies as well as an interdisciplinary approach can be proposed for more complex or severe clinical situations, with a biopsychosocial vision of rehabilitation. To personalize the rehabilitation's therapeutic approach, a clinician can use simple and validated instruments for measuring physical performance that will highlight levels of physical conditioning, which range from low to very low in FM patients. Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have found strong evidence that supervised aerobic and resistance-training programs reduce the pain intensity and significantly improve the quality of life and the physical and psychological functioning of female FM subjects. These therapeutic approaches appear safe and promising in terms of cost-effectiveness and should be the subject of more randomized controlled trials among male FM subjects and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Masquelier
- Centre Multidisciplinaire de Douleur Chronique, CHU UCL Namur, site Godinne, Avenue Dr G. Thérasse, 1, 5530 Yvoir, Belgium; Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain, Belgium.
| | - Jacques D'haeyere
- Centre Multidisciplinaire de Douleur Chronique, CHU UCL Namur, site Godinne, Avenue Dr G. Thérasse, 1, 5530 Yvoir, Belgium
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