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Developing an intervention to alter catastrophizing in persons with fibromyalgia
Pamela J Nelson1, Sharon Tucker
1Mayo School of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.
Orthopedic Nursing
|June 1, 2006
Summary
This study developed a brief psychoeducational intervention to reduce pain catastrophizing in fibromyalgia patients. The intervention showed promise in increasing knowledge and satisfaction, suggesting feasibility for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Fibromyalgia Research
- Psychoeducational Interventions
Background:
- Pain catastrophizing, characterized by focusing on pain's negative aspects, significantly impacts fibromyalgia patients' function.
- Existing fibromyalgia treatment protocols may benefit from targeted interventions to address catastrophic thinking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a brief psychoeducational intervention aimed at reducing pain catastrophizing in individuals with fibromyalgia.
- To assess the feasibility and initial impact of this intervention on patient knowledge and satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- A case-study design was employed to develop the intervention.
- Data were gathered from 39 fibromyalgia patients, 9 patients/family members, and 10 staff members through surveys and focus groups.
- The intervention was piloted with 7 patients and family members in two small groups.
Main Results:
- Survey and focus group data confirmed the link between catastrophic thinking and functional decline in fibromyalgia.
- A 2-hour psychoeducational session, grounded in self-efficacy theory, was developed.
- Pilot participants reported enhanced understanding of pain catastrophizing and high satisfaction with the intervention.
Conclusions:
- A brief, psychoeducational intervention targeting pain catastrophizing is a feasible and potentially valuable addition to standard fibromyalgia care.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy of this intervention in improving patient outcomes.