A Mixed Educational Program for Fibromyalgia Managed by a Nurse: A Retrospective Evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Psychosomatic Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Fibromyalgia treatment guidelines recommend a multimodal approach.
• Nonpharmacological interventions are crucial for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
• A pilot program integrating psychosocial education, balneotherapy, and relaxation was evaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the potential effectiveness of a novel nonpharmacological multicomponent intervention for fibromyalgia.
• To evaluate the impact of the program on anxiety, depression, and overall quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Participants with fibromyalgia attended weekly 3-4 hour sessions for 8 weeks.
• The program included group balneotherapy, relaxation techniques, and educational sessions with specialists.
• Symptom severity was measured using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at baseline, week 8, and 6-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• A total of 68 patients participated; 56 completed all assessments.
• Patients with higher baseline FIQ scores showed significantly higher anxiety and depression.
• Significant reductions in anxiety and depression scores were observed by week 8.
• The FIQ score significantly decreased in patients with high baseline scores by week 8.

Conclusions:

• The pilot program shows promise in alleviating anxiety and depression in fibromyalgia patients.
• This multicomponent intervention may improve the quality of life for individuals with fibromyalgia.
• Further randomized controlled trials are recommended to validate short- and long-term efficacy.