Treatment Of Fibromyalgia Research Articles

A narrative review of thalassotherapy and the health benefits of seawater and coastal climates.

Thalassotherapy refers to the therapeutic use of controlled exposure to marine environments and their natural elements for health promotion. This review aims to summarize evidence-based clinical applications of thalassotherapy. A narrative review was conducted, with PubMed searched in September 2024 for clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of thalassotherapy. Relevant evidence was summarized and critically analyzed. A total of 566 articles were identified, of which 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. Thalassotherapy was primarily studied for its effects on skin disorders, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and vitiligo, as well as rheumatic conditions like fibromyalgia and ankylosing spondylitis. The intervention showed significant improvements in disease severity and patient quality of life, with the strongest evidence seen in psoriasis and fibromyalgia treatment. Thalassotherapy appears beneficial for symptom relief in several conditions, particularly skin and rheumatic disorders. However, further research is needed to quantify its effect size, evaluate long-term benefits, assess potential risks, and identify factors that may influence treatment outcomes.

O IMPACTO DO PILATES NO TRATAMENTO DA FIBROMIALGIA

Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome that causes diffuse muscle pain and increased sensitivity in specific points on the body. It mainly affects women between the ages of 30 and 60, but can occur in men and at younger ages. Symptoms include chronic pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties. Pilates is adaptable to different populations and health conditions and can be customized to meet individual needs. This adaptability makes Pilates a versatile and inclusive therapeutic option, suitable for rehabilitation and health promotion programs. The objective, therefore, was to investigate the impact of the Pilates method in the treatment of fibromyalgia, evaluating its effects on reducing pain, improving physical function and quality of life for patients. Methodologically, a systematic review of the literature was incorporated, with a search for articles carried out in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, starting from a period of 5 years (2019-2024). It was concluded, based on the available evidence, that Pilates can be considered as a complementary treatment option for patients with fibromyalgia. It is recommended that healthcare professionals consider including Pilates in multidisciplinary treatment programs for fibromyalgia, adapting intervention protocols as necessary to meet each patient’s specific needs. Even more so, the implementation of Pilates programs supervised by qualified professionals can guarantee the safety and effectiveness of this therapeutic intervention for patients with fibromyalgia.

Cannabis-Based Treatments for Fibromyalgia: Implications for the Philippines’ Medical Cannabis Legalization

Cannabis-Based Treatments for Fibromyalgia: Implications for the Philippines’ Medical Cannabis Legalization

Impact of Fibromyalgia on Disease activity in Inflammatory Arthritis: A Cohort Study Conducted at Tertiary Care Hospital of Peshawar, Pakistan

Objective: To determine the frequency of fibromyalgia in patients with inflammatory arthritis and to evaluate the impact of fibromyalgia treatment on disease activity in these patients. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Place and Duration of Study: Rheumatology Division, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar Pakistan, from Apr to Dec 2021. Methodology: A total of 400 patients were enrolled in the study of which 320 were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, 55 with ankylosing spondylitis and 25 with psoriatic arthritis. The diagnosis of fibromyalgia was made with 2016 American College of Radiology Criteria and patients were classified according to the presence or absence of fibromyalgia. Disease Activity Score-28 for Rheumatoid Arthritis with Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (DAS28-ESR), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index and Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis Score-28 were recorded for rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis, respectively. Patients of fibromyalgia were treated by either pregabalin or duloxetine with 3-month follow-up. Patients with Widespread Pain Index <7 and Symptoms Severity Scale <5 after treatment for 3 months were labeled as responders. Results: Fibromyalgia was present in 90(28.1%) patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, 14(25.5%) with ankylosing spondylitis and 8(32%) with Psoriatic arthritis. Fibromyalgia was more common in Rheumatoid Arthritis patients whose disease duration exceeded 5 years (p-value <0.001). Similarly, obesity significantly contributed to Fibromyalgia development in Rheumatoid Arthritis (p-value <0.001) but not in Ankylosing spondylitis and Psoriatic arthritis patients. Disease duration >5 years, obesity, female gender and rising age increased the odds of developing Fibromyalgia in ... Conclusion: Patients with concomitant Fibromyalgia presented higher

O PAPEL DO RECUPERO COMO RECURSO FISIOTERAPÊUTICO EM PACIENTES FIBROMIÁLGICOS AFETADOS PELA COVID-19

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic syndrome, characterized by diffuse pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated symptoms, leading to the need for new therapeutic approaches, such as the use of Recupero, which can offer relief and improve patients' quality of life. Justification: This study is based on the need for integrated therapies in physical therapy for fibromyalgia, aggravated by COVID-19. The Recupero program combines photobiomodulation and ultrasound, promoting analgesia and tissue regeneration. Research is essential to fill gaps in knowledge and improve the quality of life of vulnerable patients. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of Recupero in the treatment of fibromyalgia and the management of post-COVID sequelae in patients affected by the infection. Methodology: This study reviewed the literature on fibromyalgia and COVID-19, analyzing articles from 2014 to 2024 in MedLine, SciELO, LILACS, and PEDro. Using the PICO strategy, six relevant studies were included, focusing on physiotherapy and the use of the Recupero device to improve symptoms in patients. Results and Discussion: COVID-19 infection intensified fibromyalgia symptoms, such as pain and anxiety, due to social isolation and treatment interruption. Studies have shown that the Recupero device improved pain and quality of life in fibromyalgia patients, showing efficacy in post-COVID rehabilitation and highlighting the importance of non-invasive therapies. Concluding Remarks: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted fibromyalgia patients, intensifying pain and anxiety due to isolation and treatment disruption. Interventions such as telerehabilitation and photosonic therapy have shown lasting benefits, underscoring the importance of a biopsychosocial approach. There is a need for rigorous studies to validate these therapies in the post-pandemic context.

Diagnosis and treatment of Fibromyalgia: a comprehensive review of current evidence and clinical practices

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment, and widespread pain in the muscles and bones. The latest evidence-based methods for diagnosing and treating fibromyalgia are examined in this article. The diagnostic criteria have improved, making the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) crucial for patient assessment. This study searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from 1990 to 2023 and selected 44 publications for in-depth analysis. To ensure the accurate application of the criteria, the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia were the focus of this investigation through the synthesis of qualitative data. Medications can relieve pain and improve quality of life when used early on. Anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, and SNRIs are options for pharmacological interventions. Hydrotherapy, mindfulness, CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy), and physical exercise are the main non-pharmacological tools for long-term disease management. Continuous monitoring of the patient and precise modifications to interventions are essential for the success of therapy. The continuous education of patients, with detailed information, is essential for them to be empowered to manage their own symptoms, and consequently, improve their condition. This research examines the best clinical practices and prospective medical advancements for the treatment of fibromyalgia, as well as various therapeutic methods.

Genetic and immunological implications in fibromyalgia: A Literature Review

Fibromyalgia (FM), a musculoskeletal condition characterized by widespread pain and numerous associated symptoms, is a complex disorder with uncertain etiology and pathogenesis. Most of the patients suffering from this syndrome are undiagnosed due to a lack of standard diagnostic criteria. Recent studies have shown the involvement of immune dysfunction and various pro-inflammatory cytokines in FM. Since there is so much uncertainty regarding the pathogenesis of FM, treatment modalities are very limited and ineffective. This review aimed to analyze the immunological mechanisms behind FM, attempting to deepen the understanding of its pathogenesis. Additionally, the review elucidates FM's associations with autoimmune diseases, highlighting shared pathophysiological mechanisms and overlapping symptoms. We synthesized current literature available on Google Scholar, PubMed, Springer, and Web of Science, the review explored the intricate interactions between genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and environmental factors in FM pathogenesis. The inclusion criteria prioritized studies focusing on the immunological aspect of FM. In conclusion, immune dysfunction has a role to play in the pathogenesis of FM, and immunomodulatory therapies have proven to be beneficial in the treatment of FM. Genetic variants, epigenetic modifications, and gut microbiome alterations are potential triggers for immune system dysfunction, contributing to the manifestation and exaggeration of FM symptoms. This review provided a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians, a guide for future investigations and clinical management towards improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for individuals with FM.

Neuronutritional Approach to Fibromyalgia Management: A Narrative Review.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex and common syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and various functional symptoms without clear structural or pathological causes. Affecting approximately 1-5% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in women, FM significantly impacts patients' quality of life, often leading to considerable healthcare costs and loss of productivity. Despite its prevalence, the etiology of FM remains elusive, with genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, including nutrition, being implicated. Currently, no universally accepted treatment guidelines exist, and management strategies are often symptomatic. This narrative review explores the potential of a neuronutritional approach to FM management. It synthesizes existing research on the relationship between FM and nutrition, suggesting that dietary interventions could be a promising complementary treatment strategy. Various nutritional interventions, including vitamin D, magnesium, iron, and probiotics supplementation, have shown potential in reducing FM symptoms, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, cognitive dysfunction, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, weight loss has been associated with reduced inflammation and improved quality of life in FM patients. The review highlights the anti-inflammatory benefits of plant-based diets and the low-FODMAPs diet, which have shown promise in managing FM symptoms and related gastrointestinal disorders. Supplements such as vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin B12, coenzyme Q10, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, S-adenosylmethionine, and acetyl-L-carnitine are discussed for their potential benefits in FM management through various mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of neurotransmitters, and improvement of mitochondrial function. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of considering neuronutrition as a holistic approach to FM treatment, advocating for further research and clinical trials to establish comprehensive dietary guidelines and to optimize management strategies for FM patients.

Fibromyalgia progression and association with other diseases and inheritance with management practices in humans

Fibromyalgia is a widespread pain disorder characterized by chronic, diffuse pain, about 1 to 5% around world. While more prevalent in women and adults, it can also manifest in children and adolescents. The specific pathophysiology of fibromyalgia remains unclear, but it is associated with neuronal over sensitization, reduced conditioned pain modulation, cognitive dysfunction, memory loss, and impaired information processing. It has now been categorized as a somatic symptom disorder. This study aimed to investigate fibromyalgia, focusing on its potential hereditary connections and management practices. A key pathophysiological aspect of fibromyalgia is central sensitization, marked by increased functional connectivity with pre-receptive brain areas, decreased connectivity with antinociceptive areas, and alterations in central nervous system neurotransmitters, also in size and shape of specific brain areas. Fibromyalgia is not directly inherited from parents to offspring, it does exhibit a tendency to cluster within families. The serotonin transporter gene, characterized by single nucleotide polymorphism with "S" (short) allele, is more prevalent in individuals with fibromyalgia and psychological distress. In conclusion, fibromyalgia is a widespread pain disorder with a substantial impact on the central nervous system, resulting in significant disability and an elevated risk of chronic diseases. Early diagnosis and intervention can minimize the impact of fibromyalgia. Physical therapy and non-drug therapies should be customized for each patient. The FDA has approved three drugs including pregabalin, duloxetine, and milnacipran for fibromyalgia treatment.

Effects of amultimodal inpatient treatment for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome at the Rhineland-Palatinate Acute Rheumatology Center

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is acomplex condition that is often refractory to therapy and is associated with impaired quality of life. In some studies, multimodal rheumatological treatment has been shown to be an effective therapy option for patients with systemic-inflammatory and degenerative rheumatic diseases. However, the effects of this therapeutic approach have not been sufficiently investigated in patients with FMS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of aconcise 9‑ to 10-day inpatient multimodal fibromyalgia treatment (MFT) using patient-reported outcomes in aGerman cohort. The effects of MFT were assessed using visual analog scales (VAS) for pain(P) and subjective disease activity (DA), questionnaires measuring everyday functional capacity (Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ], Funktions-Fragebogen-Hannover [FFbH, Hannover Functional Ability Questionnaire]), and pharmacotherapy at three time points (Visit1: beginning of multimodal therapy, Visit2: end of MFT, and Visit3: 3months after Visit2). Sixty-one patients were enrolled in the study at the Rhineland-Palatinate Acute Rheumatology Center. Under MFT, asignificant improvement in VAS (P) and VAS (DA) was observed between the start and end of treatment (Visit2 versus Visit1: median decrease from 7to 5, p < 0.001, for both VAS [P] and VAS [DA]). Additionally, comparison of the other two assessment points showed achange in VAS (P) (Visit3 versus Visit1: median decrease from 7to 6, p = 0.041, and Visit3 versus Visit2: median increase from 5to 6, p = 0.004). However, there were no significant differences in FFbH and HAQ parameters among the three visits. Examination of the subgroup of patients whose medication therapy was not intensified during hospitalization also showed significant improvements in VAS (P) and VAS (DA) between the start and end of MFB (Visit2 versus Visit1: median decrease from 7to 4, p < 0.001, for VAS[P] and median decrease from 6.25 to 4, p = 0.002, for VAS [DA]). These findings indicate ademonstrable benefit to patients of MFT regarding both pain and subjective disease activity. Furthermore, pain relief was even observed 3months after the end of therapy. This shows the high value of this therapeutic approach to treating patients with FMS.

Peran Motivasi Internal dalam Pengobatan Penyakit Fibromyalgia

This research examines the role of internal motivation in the success of fibromyalgia treatment through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Out of 1,247 identified articles, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis results indicate a significant positive correlation between internal motivation and medication adherence (r = 0.42, p &lt; 0.001), as well as quality of life (r = 0.38, p &lt; 0.001) among fibromyalgia patients. Additionally, a significant negative relationship was found between internal motivation and pain intensity (r = -0.31, p &lt; 0.001). Moderator analysis revealed that the effect of internal motivation is stronger in behavioral interventions compared to pharmacological treatments (Q = 8.7, p = 0.003). Furthermore, meta-regression results indicated that disease duration significantly moderates the relationship between internal motivation and fibromyalgia treatment (? = -0.02, p = 0.03), with internal motivation having a more substantial effect in patients with a longer duration of illness. Additionally, the average age of fibromyalgia patients was found to moderate the relationship between internal motivation and patient quality of life (? = 0.01, p = 0.02). Among six clinical trials evaluating interventions to enhance internal motivation, the meta-analysis showed a significant effectiveness (d = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.38 to 0.74, p &lt; 0.001). Consequently, these findings extend previous research by Ng et al. (2015) on the role of internal motivation in chronic conditions, demonstrating its strong relevance in the context of fibromyalgia. This study also differs from Karlsson et al. (2019), which did not find a significant correlation. The results reveal a consistent relationship between internal motivation and fibromyalgia treatment outcomes. Lastly, the novelty of this study lies in identifying specific moderating factors and providing a comprehensive evaluation of motivation-based interventions in the context of fibromyalgia.

Nutraceutical Supplementation as a Potential Non-Drug Treatment for Fibromyalgia: Effects on Lipid Profile, Oxidative Status, and Quality of Life.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic syndrome of unknown etiology, although many studies point to inflammation, oxidative stress, and altered mitochondrial metabolism as some of the cornerstones of this disease. Despite its socioeconomic importance and due to the difficulties in diagnosis, there are no effective treatments. However, the use of non-drug treatments is increasingly becoming a recommended strategy. In this context, the effects of supplementation of FM patients with an olive (poly)phenol, vitamin C, and vitamin B preparation were investigated in this work, analyzing complete blood count, biochemical, lipid, and coagulation profiles, and inflammation and oxidation status in blood samples. To gain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms and pathways involved in the etiology of FM, a proteomic study was also performed to investigate the mechanisms of action of the supplement. Our results show that the nutraceutical lowers the lipid profile, namely cholesterol, and improves the oxidative status of patients as well as their quality of life, suggesting that this product could be beneficial in the co-treatment of FM. ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT06348537).

Does practice make perfect? Functional connectivity of the salience network and somatosensory network predicts response to mind-body treatments for fibromyalgia.

Mind-body treatments can improve coping mechanisms to deal with pain, improve the quality of life of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), and reduce perceived pain in some cases. However, responses to these treatments are highly variable, the mechanisms underpinning them remain unclear, and reliable predictors of treatment response are lacking. We employed resting-state blood oxygen level-dependent (rsBOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine changes in brain functional connectivity (FC) following mind-body treatment that may relate to and predict pain relief. We recruited patients with FMS who underwent either mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR; n = 18) or a psychoeducational program (FibroQoL; n = 22) and a treatment-as-usual FMS group (TAU; n = 18). We collected rsBOLD data, alongside subjective pain, anxiety, depression, and catastrophizing measures prior to and following treatments. We examined behavioral changes and FC changes in the salience network (SN) and sensorimotor network (SMN) and performed regression analyses to identify predictors for treatment response. The MBSR and FibroQoL groups experienced significant reductions in pain catastrophizing. After treatment, the FC of the sensorimotor cortex with the rest of the SMN became significantly reduced in the MBSR group compared to the TAU group. The FC between the SN and the SMN at baseline was negatively correlated with pain reductions following MBSR but positively correlated with pain reductions in the FibroQoL group. These results yielded large to very large effect sizes. Following MBSR, only for those patients with lower baseline SMN-SN FC, minutes of mindfulness practice were positively associated with clinical improvement (small to medium effect size). Different mind-body treatments are underpinned by discrete brain networks. Measures of the functional interplay between SN and SMN have the potential as predictors of mind-body treatment response in patients with FMS.

Duloxetine-Induced Sleep Bruxism and Tooth Fracture in Fibromyalgia

Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that is approved for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Duloxetine has many side effects such as nausea, somnolence, insomnia, decreased appetite, dry mouth, and constipation. Sleep bruxism is also a very rare side effect of duloxetine. In this case report, a case of a 35-year-old male patient who developed sleep bruxism in the 4th week after duloxetine use, and fracture of the 1st upper molar tooth which had previously undergone root canal treatment after severe bruxism in the 6th week was presented. Duloxetine treatment was stopped and treatment was continued with amitriptyline. The patient had a significant reduction in both bruxism and fibromyalgia symptoms after the amitriptyline treatment. Bruxism symptoms were not observed after one year of follow-up.

Psychological Factors Modulate Quantitative Sensory Testing Measures in Fibromyalgia Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis.

Considering the growing evidence that psychological variables might contribute to fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), our study aims to understand the impact of psychological factors in quantitative sensory testing (QST) in FMS patients by performing a systematic review with meta-analysis. A systematic search was carried out in PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases for records up until January 2024. We included 20 studies ( n = 1623, 16 randomized controlled trials, and 4 nonrandomized controlled trials) with low or moderate risk of bias included. From nonrandomized evidence, our meta-analysis found a baseline relationship between anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing and QST measures in FMS patients. Higher pain catastrophizing levels were associated with less efficient conditioned pain modulation. Higher anxiety and depression were associated with lower pain threshold (PT). Randomized evidence showed a statistically significant increase in PT after fibromyalgia treatments (effect size = 0.29, 95% confidence interval = 0.03-0.56). The effect was not influenced by treatment type. Moreover, we found that only anxiety levels before treatment negatively influenced the PT improvements after treatment. FMS patients with higher anxiety levels at baseline showed a smaller increase in PT after the intervention. Depression factor was not significant in either changes in anxiety or depression. Baseline anxiety levels should be monitored as possible confounders of QST measurements. Understanding how psychological factors and QST are related in FMS patients is critical for improving the syndrome's management and treatment.Protocol Registration: CRD42023429397.

Magnesium hexacyanoferrate nanocatalysts alleviates fibromyalgia syndrome by reversing cellular ferroptosis

Fibromyalgia (FM), the most common causes of chronic musculoskeletal pain, is a complex syndrome with an indefinite etiology. Ferroptosis is a new type of cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, affecting many chronic pain diseases. Here, we confirmed the role of ferroptosis in FM using a mouse model of reserpine induction. Then, we developed polyvinylpyrrolidone-assembled magnesium hexacyanoferrate nanocatalysts (MgHCF NCs) as a new type of ferroptosis inhibitor, for its efficacy in ferrous ions capture and antioxidation. Excellent in vivo FM-alleviation effect from MgHCF NCs was demonstrated. The FM-protective and antiferroptotic efficacy of MgHCF NCs at the transcriptional level were explored by whole-transcriptome analysis. Meanwhile, the remarkable antiferroptotic effect of MgHCF NCs was further validated in vitro ferroptosis-inducer experiments, which was firmly associated with the efficacy of MgHCF NCs on reducing oxidative stress, mitochondrial protection and correcting disordered polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) metabolism. The excellent antiferroptotic effect and biocompatibility render MgHCF NCs to be highly promising and clinically transformable agents for FM treatment.

Comparative effectiveness of Maitland Spinal Mobilization versus myofascial techniques on pain and symptom severity in women with Fibromyalgia syndrome: A quasi-randomized clinical trial with 3-month follow up

ObjectiveThe aim of this experimental study was to determine which manual therapy approach is more effective in addressing health status by improving symptoms (sensory, cognitive, emotional, and social) in patients with fibromyalgia. Material and methodsA quasi-randomized clinical trial with 3-month follow-up was conducted in 52 female patients (age 52.5 ± 8.1 years) affected by rheumatologist-diagnosed Fibromyalgia and evaluated at the Asociación de Fibromialgia y Síndrome de Fatiga Crónica (AFINSYFACRO) in Móstoles and AFIBROM, Madrid, Spain. Two manual therapy approaches were applied: the myofascial technique approach (MTA) and Maitland Mobilization Approach (MMA). The study examined the following outcomes: Widespread Pain, Symptom Severity, Impact on Quality of Life, Perceived Pain, Sensitization-Associated Pain, Sleep Quality, Physical Activity, and Psychological, Cognitive, and Emotional Factors. Patient Satisfaction was also assessed. ResultsNo significant differences were found between groups over time for most variables. However, the MTA group showed significant improvements in pain intensity, central sensitization, general health, sleep quality, and anxiety compared with the MMA group. ConclusionsDespite the lack of between-group differences in all variables over time, MTA may be useful in the treatment of fibromyalgia, reducing pain, central sensitization, and negative emotional symptoms, as well as improving general health and sleep quality. Due to problems during the study, randomization was abandoned. This problem becomes a virtue by taking advantage of the situation to apply statistical compensation methods, which will serve as a guide for future research that suffers from this problem. We suggest the inclusion of longer follow-up periods in future studies.

Whole-Body Cryostimulation: An Effective Complementary Treatment in Fibromyalgia? A Follow Up Study.

Recent evidence suggests that whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) may be beneficial for patients with fibromyalgia (FM), but little is known about the duration of such effects. The purpose of this study was to verify the duration of clinical-functional benefits after one cycle of WBC. We conducted a follow-up study on the medium and long-term effects of WBC on well-being, use of pain-relieving/anti-inflammatory medications, pain level, fatigue, sleep quality, and psychological aspects such as mood and anxiety. Twelve months after discharge, we administered a 10 min follow-up telephone interview with FM patients with obesity who had undergone ten 2 min WBC sessions at -110 °C as part of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program (n = 23) and with patients who had undergone rehabilitation alone (n = 23). Both groups reported positive changes after the rehabilitation program, and similar results regarding fatigue, mood, and anxiety scores; however, the implementation of ten sessions of WBC over two weeks produced additional benefits in pain, general well-being status, and sleep quality with beneficial effects lasting 3-4 months. Therefore, our findings suggest that adding WBC to a rehabilitation program could exert stronger positive effects to improve key aspects of FM such as general well-being, pain level, and sleep quality.

Mind-body therapy for treating fibromyalgia: a systematic review.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic and disabling condition that presents management challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. The objective of this systematic review was to summarize current evidence on the effectiveness and safety of mind-body therapies in the treatment and/or management of fibromyalgia. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, AMED, and CINAHL databases from their inception to December 2023. Eligible articles included adults diagnosed with fibromyalgia participating in a mind-body therapy intervention and were published from the beginning of 2012 onwards. We assessed the quality of the studies using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklists. Of 3866 records screened, 27 studies (30 articles) met our inclusion criteria, in which 22 were randomized controlled trials and 5 were quasi-experimental studies. Mind-body therapies included guided imagery (n = 5), mindfulness-based stress reduction (n = 5), qi gong (n = 5), tai chi (n = 5), biofeedback (n = 3), yoga (n = 2), mindfulness awareness training (n = 1), and progressive muscle relaxation (n = 1). With the exception of mindfulness-based stress reduction, all therapies had at least one study showing significant improvements in pain at the end of treatment. Multiple studies on guided imagery, qi gong, and tai chi observed significant improvements in pain, fatigue, multidimensional function, and sleep. Approximately one-third of the studies reported on adverse events. This review suggests that mind-body therapies are potentially beneficial for adults with fibromyalgia. Further research is necessary to determine if the positive effects observed post-intervention are sustained. Open Science Framework (https://osf.io) (September 12, 2023; https://doi.org/10.17605/osf.io/6w7ac).

Beyond Pills: Synergizing Pharmacological and Physical Activity Interventions in Fibromyalgia Treatment. A review

Introduction and purpose Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairment, affecting 2-4% of the global population, with a higher prevalence among women and those of lower socioeconomic status. The pathogenesis of FM is complex and multifactorial, involving central sensitization and neurochemical dysregulation. This review highlights the latest advancements in pharmacological and behavioral therapies for fibromyalgia. State of knowledge Management of fibromyalgia currently is based on a combination of medication use and non-pharmacological approaches, primarily based on physical activity and cognitive-behavioral therapy. This review explores advancements in FM treatments, focusing on novel pharmacological agents such as vortioxetine, eslicarbazepine acetate, and tapentadol, which target specific neurochemical pathways to alleviate symptoms. Vortioxetine offers new mechanisms of action with potential cognitive benefits, while eslicarbazepine acetate and tapentadol provide alternative approaches for pain modulation and central sensitization. Additionally, non-pharmacological therapies, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and virtual reality (VR) therapy, demonstrate promise in enhancing physical fitness, reducing pain, and improving quality of life for FM patients. Summary Overall, the integration of these novel therapies into comprehensive, individualized treatment plans can optimize outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals with FM. Ongoing research and personalized medicine approaches are essential to further refine and validate these emerging treatments.