A realistic approach to managing patients with fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia syndrome is common and variable in impact, with some patients having a milder and shorter duration of symptoms and others suffering significant and prolonged pain. Disability also varies. It is thought that the syndrome arises from a disordered neurophysiology that, through links to central control inputs, involves emotions, thoughts, and cognitions. Social and psychological sequelae contribute to and result from this process. The biopsychosocial model of disease epitomizes fibromyalgia. Although management may be difficult at times, and much needs to be done, the growing appreciation of strategies that use this described model and the knowledge of the potential reversibility of the syndrome are resulting in improved outcomes.
Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Monash Medical Centre, Rheumatology Unit, Block E, Level 3, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, 3168, Victoria, Melbourne, Australia. Geoff.Littlejohn@med.monash.edu.au
Geoffrey O
GO
Littlejohn
Janine
J
Walker
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D005356:Fibromyalgia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods; D011379:Prognosis; D011788:Quality of Life; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000928:Antidepressive Agents