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A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers
Published on: January 5, 2024
Positive associations between physical and cognitive performance measures in fibromyalgia
Barbara J Cherry1, Laura Zettel-Watson, Jennifer C Chang
1Department of Psychology, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, CA 92834-6846, USA. bcherry@fullerton.edu
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|October 15, 2011
Summary
Objective physical performance in fibromyalgia (FM) is linked to better cognitive function, including attention and processing speed. Further research is needed to understand these connections and potential interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rheumatology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and fatigue.
- Perceived physical function (self-report) may not accurately reflect objective physical and cognitive capabilities in individuals with FM.
- Understanding the interplay between physical and cognitive function is crucial for comprehensive FM management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between self-reported physical function and objectively measured physical and cognitive performance in adults with fibromyalgia.
- To identify specific cognitive domains associated with physical performance in the FM population.
Main Methods:
- Correlational study design involving 68 community-residing adults meeting American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria for FM.
- Objective assessments included the Senior Fitness Test, Fullerton Advanced Balance scale, 30-foot walk, and cognitive tests (Trail Making Test, Digit Symbol Substitution Test).
- Hierarchical regression analyses were used to determine associations after controlling for age and FM symptom severity.
Main Results:
- Objective physical performance, distinct from self-report, was significantly associated with higher cognitive function.
- Specifically, better physical performance correlated with enhanced attention/executive function, processing speed, problem-solving abilities, and inhibition.
- These associations remained significant after accounting for age and fibromyalgia symptom burden.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights a dissociation between perceived and objective physical function in FM, emphasizing the importance of objective measures.
- Further investigation into the physical-cognitive function relationship in diverse populations and over time is warranted.
- Exploring underlying mechanisms, such as neurogenesis or inflammatory markers, may reveal therapeutic targets for improving both physical and cognitive health in FM.
