Do fibromyalgia patients use active pain management strategies? A cohort study.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the types of pain management strategies used by patients with fibromyalgia. METHODS: A total of 158 patients with primary fibromyalgia attended a clinical visit to confirm the diagnosis. They completed 3 questionnaires: (i) a self-made questionnaire, (ii) Beck Depression Inventory IA (BDI IA), and (iii) Finnish version of Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire. The self-made questionnaire included questions about: intensity of current pain; general well-being; pain management strategies, including pain medications; efficacy of the pain management methods; current health problems other than fibromyalgia. The pain management strategies were subcategorized (e.g., physical exercise, massage and heat treatment). The strategies were also divided into active and passive types. RESULTS: The most frequently reported pain management strategies were physical exercise (54%), physical therapy (32%) and cold treatment (27%). The use of active pain management strategies, BDI IA_<_10 points and age were independent predictors of the reported pain management efficacy. Patients who used active pain management strategies reported better efficacy with the BDI IA score ≥_10 points. CONCLUSION: Active pain management strategies are most efficacious for fibromyalgia patients, regardless of the severity of fibromyalgia or optional comorbid depression.