Subgroups of FMS: Symptoms, Beliefs and Tailored Treatments

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a prevalent, chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder. Despite extensive study, researchers do not understand well the etiology and pathophysiologic mechanisms of FMS, and have not shown any treatment to be universally effective. We propose that FMS is a complex disorder involving multiple factors, both physical and psychosocial-behavioral.

In our previous research, we demonstrated that FMS patients are heterogeneous in the psychosocial-behavioral axis and can be classified into three distinct subgroups on the basis of their psychosocial adaptation to symptoms. In this study we will extend our previous research and attempt to match treatments to patients' psychosocial-behavioral characteristics. Specifically, we will test the efficacy of uniquely tailored treatment for each psychosocial subgroup.

We will treat three groups of FMS patients with one of three treatment protocols involving standard physical therapy and varying psychological treatments. A total of 312 FMS patients will undergo six half-day interdisciplinary treatment sessions consisting of psychological treatments and physical therapy emphasizing aerobic conditioning, pacing, and body mechanics. All protocols include a standardized physical therapy and either cognitive-behavioral pain management therapy, interpersonal skill training, or supportive counseling.

In addition to the treatment outcome study, we will prospectively assess various symptoms of FMS in the patients' natural habitats to better understand covariations of FMS symptoms. Patients will do repeated daily monitoring using a palm-top computer (ecological momentary assessment), which will permit us to evaluate process ratings compared to retrospective reports.

Overall, the results of these studies should establish the benefit of matching treatments to patient characteristics and enhance our understanding of the roles of cognitive-affective-behavioral adaptation by people with FMS.