Related Experiment Videos
Living with fibromyalgia. Consequences for everyday life
C Henriksson1, I Gundmark, A Bengtsson
1Department of Caring Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
The Clinical Journal of Pain
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Fibromyalgia significantly impacts daily life, affecting employment and physical tasks for most patients. Chronic pain and fatigue are pervasive, leading to widespread changes in routines and habits.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pain Medicine
- Quality of Life Studies
Background:
- Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition affecting daily functioning.
- Understanding the lived experience of fibromyalgia patients is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of fibromyalgia symptoms on the daily lives of affected individuals.
- To gather insights into patients' social, occupational, and functional status.
Main Methods:
- A mail questionnaire and a 2-day activity diary were employed for data collection.
- Data included social background, employment, symptoms, health, and motor task performance.
- Patients self-reported pain, fatigue, activity difficulty, and perceived value every 30 minutes.
Main Results:
- 55% of fibromyalgia patients were employed, often with reduced hours or modified tasks.
- Motor tasks became more difficult, with half reporting most activities as strenuous.
- 67% experienced minimal to no pain-free periods over the 2-day study.
Conclusions:
- Fibromyalgia symptoms profoundly affect daily life, necessitating significant changes in habits and routines.
- Comprehensive assessment of a patient's life situation is vital for understanding their coping mechanisms and daily living capabilities.