Article

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.

Langue : ANGLAIS