Physical Function in Adults With Fibromyalgia: A Scoping Review

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a widespread chronic pain condition that impacts 10 million people in the United States and an estimated 3%-6% of the global population. Chronic pain leads to a marked decrease in one's quality of life, reduced productivity, chronic disease exacerbation, and psychiatric disorders. The negative impact of chronic pain on the physical and psychological health of individuals with FM can result in substantial restrictions that limit daily activities and overall physical function.

The purpose of this scoping review was to synthesize applicable literature on physical function among adults living with FM, to elucidate gaps in the literature, and to recommend directions for future research related to physical function among those living with FM.

The Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology was used to identify and synthesize studies. The screening process was conducted using a Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-ScR) chart. The resulting 13 papers were comprehensively reviewed and demographic data was collated. Data was extracted and synthesized to form a matrix for comparison to more easily interpret major themes.

Prior studies demonstrate that physical function scales are often subsumed into health-related quality of life or general function measures. The lack of a distinct measure of physical function made it difficult to compare and contrast research findings and to ensure all aspects of the concept were adequately measured. Multiple studies supported the relationship between resilience and functional adaptation among individuals with FM. Resilience was identified as a protective factor that promoted adaptation and reduced FM severity. Other factors noted to be associated with physical function included depression and multi-morbidity.

The purpose of this study was to describe the meaning of physical function, identify ways to measure physical function, and explore factors associated with physical function among adults living with FM. This scoping review lays a foundation for the development of future research contributing to the advancement of the understanding of factors associated with physical function among adults living with FM.