Exploring patient activation and self-management experiences in adults with fibromyalgia: A qualitative evidence synthesis

Yung, Kit; Jadhav, Durva; Ma, Cheuk; Majgaonkar, Sakshee; Manai, Eya; Pearson, Jennifer

Abstract

Lay Summary: What does this mean for patients? Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a long-term condition that causes chronic widespread pain and fatigue, which commonly affects people’s ability to perform day-to-day activities. Research shows that self-management strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. However, following self-management advice often depends on a concept called ‘patient activation’ (PA), which refers to the knowledge, skills and confidence a person has for managing their health. Therefore, we explored the influences on PA and how it may contribute to the successful self-management of FMS. After reviewing nine studies, we found four main factors. Firstly, people living with FMS feel more confident managing their conditions when others acknowledge it. Secondly, support from medical professionals through self-management programmes helped individuals gain knowledge and better understand the condition. People with FMS particularly value empathic clinicians and individualized treatments based on their circumstances. Thirdly, support from friends and social networks helped people to stay motivated to manage their FMS. Lastly, people living with FMS are on a self-management journey, finding strategies and interventions that work best for them. Therefore, we recommend that healthcare professionals provide medical expertise, empathy, education and personalized treatments to support those living with FMS.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 14, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Mar 10, 2025
• Publication Date: Mar 10, 2025
• Deposit Date: May 2, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: May 2, 2025
• Journal: Rheumatology Advances in Practice
• Print ISSN: 2514-1775
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 2
• Article Number: rkaf025
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/rap/rkaf025
• Keywords: qualitative, fibromyalgia, patient activation, self-management
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/13970137