Fibromyalgia: Ontario

Martin Ginis KA, Hicks AL. · Département de kinésiologie, Université McMaster, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada. · Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. · Pubmed #19377538 No free full text.

Abstract: This paper provides a brief overview of the epidemiological data regarding Canadians with physical disabilities, with a particular emphasis on health status. A literature review is then presented, focusing on activity levels and the physiological and health-related quality of life benefits of activity for people with four different physical disabilities (arthritis, fibromyalgia, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis). The unique physical activity barriers faced by people with physical disabilities are discussed. The paper concludes with recommendations for the development of a physical activity guide for Canadians with physical disabilities.

Sumpton JE, Moulin DE. · Department of Pharmacy, Victoria Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, and Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. · Pain Res Manag. · Pubmed #19225604 No free full text.

Abstract: Fibromyalgia is a condition with widespread muscle pain. Prevalence studies showed that 2% to 7% of the population have fibromyalgia, which affects approximately one million Canadians. Fibromyalgia is most common in women, but it also involves men and children. As with most chronic illnesses, the causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. However, recent research supports underlying abnormalities in the central nervous system, which supports fibromyalgia as a chronic disease state and valid clinical entity. Pain is the primary symptom, often accompanied by overwhelming fatigue, sleep dysfunction and cognitive impairment. In 1990, the American College of Rheumatology developed diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Lifestyle changes, including pacing of activities and aerobic exercise, are very important in managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Emotional and behavioural therapy can also be helpful. Controlled trials of antidepressants, gabapentinoids, tramadol, zopiclone and sodium oxybate have shown effectiveness in fibromyalgia patients. Pregabalin and duloxetine were recently approved in the United States. Effective management of fibromyalgia is complex and requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Response and tolerance of different therapeutic interventions vary from patient to patient. Recent advances in the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia offer hope for new and improved therapies in the management of this disabling condition.

Sproule BA, Hazra M, Pollock BG. · The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, Canada. · Drugs Today (Barc). · Pubmed #18806899 No free full text.

Abstract: Desvenlafaxine (O-desmethylvenlafaxine) is the major active metabolite of venlafaxine. Desvenlafaxine succinate is now undergoing active evaluation for its therapeutic efficacy in a variety of disorders, including major depressive disorder, vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, fibromyalgia and diabetic neuropathy. Desvenlafaxine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) with similar activity to its parent compound venlafaxine, and little affinity for other brain targets, including muscarinic, cholinergic, histamine H(1) and alpha-adrenergic receptors. Desvenlafaxine has linear pharmacokinetics, low protein binding, a half-life of approximately 10 hours and is metabolized primarily via glucuronidation, and to a minor extent through CYP3A4. The desvenlafaxine succinate formulation appears to have good oral bioavailability. Clearance rates are reduced in the elderly, those with severe renal dysfunction and those with moderate to severe hepatic dysfunction, which may require dosage adjustments. Three published clinical trials have shown supportive but mixed results for the efficacy of desvenlafaxine in the treatment of major depressive disorder with daily doses ranging from 100 mg to 400 mg. One published clinical trial has shown mixed results for the efficacy of desvenlafaxine in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause with daily doses ranging from 50 mg to 200 mg. In these four clinical trials, desvenlafaxine was associated with several mild adverse effects, with the most common effect being nausea. Less common, but more serious, adverse effects reported in these trials included hypertension, QTc interval prolongation, exacerbation of ischemic cardiac disease, elevated lipids and elevated liver enzymes. The exact nature of these serious adverse effects, including the prevalence, clinical significance and potential risk factors, still needs to be fully elucidated. Desvenlafaxine has a low propensity for pharmacokinetic-based drug interactions, although it has the same potential for pharmacodynamic interactions as other serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Desvenlafaxine is currently another treatment option for major depressive disorder. The only identified potential advantage of desvenlafaxine over venlafaxine or other antidepressant agents at this time is the apparently reduced risk for pharmacokinetic drug interactions.

Brosseau L, Wells GA, Tugwell P, Egan M, Wilson KG, Dubouloz CJ, Casimiro L, Robinson VA, McGowan J, Busch A, Poitras S, Moldofsky H, Harth M, Finestone HM, Nielson W, Haines-Wangda A, Russell-Doreleyers M, Lambert K, Marshall AD, Veilleux L, Anonymous00378. · Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital, Civic Campus, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. · Phys Ther. · Pubmed #18497302 links to  free full text

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to create guidelines for the use of strengthening exercises in the management of adult patients (>18 years of age) with fibromyalgia (FM), as defined by the 1990 American College of Rheumatology criteria. METHODS: Following Cochrane Collaboration methods, the Ottawa Methods Group found and synthesized evidence from comparative controlled trials and formed the Ottawa Panel, with nominated experts from key stakeholder organizations. The Ottawa Panel then developed criteria for grading the recommendations based on experimental design (I for randomized controlled trials, II for nonrandomized studies) and strength of evidence (A, B, C+, C, D+, D, or D-). From the rigorous literature search, 5 randomized controlled trials were selected. Statistical analysis was based on Cochrane Collaboration methods. Continuous data were calculated with weighted mean differences between the intervention and control groups, and dichotomous data were analyzed with relative risks. Clinical improvement was calculated using absolute benefit and relative difference in change from baseline. Clinical significance was attained when an improvement of 15% relative to a control was found. RESULTS: There were 5 positive recommendations: 2 grade A and 3 grade C+. All 5 were of clinical benefit. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The Ottawa Panel recommends strengthening exercises for the management of fibromyalgia as a result of the emerging evidence (grades A, B, and C+, although most trials were rated low quality) shown in the literature.

Brosseau L, Wells GA, Tugwell P, Egan M, Wilson KG, Dubouloz CJ, Casimiro L, Robinson VA, McGowan J, Busch A, Poitras S, Moldofsky H, Harth M, Finestone HM, Nielson W, Haines-Wangda A, Russell-Doreleyers M, Lambert K, Marshall AD, Veilleux L, Anonymous00377. · Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital, Civic Campus, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. · Phys Ther. · Pubmed #18497301 links to  free full text

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to create guidelines for the use of aerobic fitness exercises in the management of adult patients (>18 years of age) with fibromyalgia, as defined by the 1990 American College of Rheumatology criteria. METHODS: Following Cochrane Collaboration methods, the Ottawa Methods Group found and synthesized evidence from comparative controlled trials and formed the Ottawa Panel, with nominated experts from key stakeholder organizations. The Ottawa Panel then developed criteria for grading the recommendations based on experimental design (I for randomized controlled trials, II for nonrandomized studies) and strength of evidence (A, B, C+, C, D+, D, or D-). From the rigorous literature search, 13 randomized control trials and 3 controlled clinical trials were selected. Statistical analysis was based on Cochrane Collaboration methods. Continuous data were calculated with weighted mean differences between the intervention and control groups, and dichotomous data were analyzed with relative risks. Clinical improvement was calculated using absolute benefit and relative difference in change from baseline. Clinical significance was attained when an improvement of 15% relative to a control was found. RESULTS: There were 24 positive recommendations: 10 grade A, 1 grade B, and 13 grade C+. Of these 24 positive recommendations, only 5 were of clinical benefit. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The Ottawa Panel recommends aerobic fitness exercises for the management of fibromyalgia as a result of the emerging evidence (grades A, B, and C+, although most trials were rated low quality) shown in the literature.

Moldofsky H. · Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Sleep Disorders Clinic of the Centre for Sleep and Chronobiology, 340 College Street, Suite 580, Toronto, ON MST 3A9, Canada. · Joint Bone Spine. · Pubmed #18456536 No free full text.

Abstract: The clinical focus of rheumatologists on the widespread pain and numerous tender points in specific anatomic regions in their patients who show no evidence for disease pathology has lead to the characterization of such peripheral symptoms as a specific disorder of the musculoskeletal system, now commonly known as fibromyalgia. This rheumatologic diagnostic entity has resulted in relative inattention to an understanding of their patients' common complaints of unrefreshing sleep, chronic fatigue and psychological distress. Experimental evidence from humans and animal studies indicate that there is an inter-relationship of disturbances in the physiology of the sleeping-waking brain with the widespread musculoskeletal pain, chronic fatigue, and psychological distress in patients with hitherto unexplained pain/fatigue illnesses, e.g., fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndromes. The emerging knowledge of the dysfunction of the nervous system in such patients has lead to the study of novel medications that affect neurotransmitter functions, e.g., pregabalin, serotonin/noradrenaline compounds and sodium oxybate that are shown to improve many of the symptoms of such patients.

Moldofsky H. · Sleep Disorders Clinic of the Centre for Sleep and Chronobiology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. · CNS Spectr. · Pubmed #18323770 links to  free full text

Abstract: People with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) experience unrefreshing sleep, aches, hypersensitivity, and cognitive and emotional difficulties. Although no specific causative factor or biological agent is known to account for all of the features of FMS and these related diagnoses, the generalized hypersensitivity of the body is considered to be affected by disturbances in central nervous system (CNS) functions. Such CNS disturbances are intrinsic to the sleeping-waking brain, where the common symptom elements in all these illnesses are poor quality of sleep, nonspecific pain, fatigue, and psychological distress in the absence of known disease pathology.

Merskey H. · University of Western Ontario, Ontario, Canada. · CNS Spectr. · Pubmed #18323769 links to  free full text

Abstract: Despite relevant evidence of physical illness promoting fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), some authors claim that it is a psychological illness, or due to "psychological amplification." Good evidence for such views is lacking. Selection processes lead to increased rates of psychological illness in general practice and in specialist practice. The physical distress of FMS can increase both anxiety and depression. Questionable research supported by the insurance industry has tended to provide negative and disparaging views of pain. Current imaging studies support the view that central effects connected with FMS relate to the processing of noxious stimulation more than affective disorder.

Romans S, Cohen M. · Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada. · Harv Rev Psychiatry. · Pubmed #18306098 No free full text.

Abstract: Although it is commonly accepted that interpersonal violence (IntPV) leads to adverse health consequences, the available data are far from decisive. To test the hypothesized link, the authors devised an evidence-based strategy to determine the data quality in studies purporting to link IntPV and some medically unexplained disorders in women (irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pelvic pain, fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue, and other chronic pain syndromes). English language studies with control groups of unaffected women were assessed for the quality of their methodologies. The number of studies, together with the consistency of their findings in each domain, was collated to determine the overall weight of evidence regarding the link for each condition. The quantity and quality of research in each clinical area proved to be sparse. In general, most research was limited to small, convenience samples, with insufficient attention to the design of control groups and to sample size. The evidence currently available regarding irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue, chronic pelvic pain, and other chronic pain syndromes does not allow for any firm conclusion regarding their link to IntPV. More research - paying particular regard to the methodological concerns identified here - is required in order to generate any definitive conclusions.

Ginis KA, Hicks AL. · McMaster University, Department of Kinesiology, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. · Can J Public Health. · Pubmed #18213944 No free full text.

Abstract: This paper provides a brief overview of the epidemiological data regarding Canadians with physical disabilities, with a particular emphasis on health status. A literature review is then presented, focusing on activity levels and the physiological and health-related quality of life benefits of activity for people with four different physical disabilities (arthritis, fibromyalgia, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis). The unique physical activity barriers faced by people with physical disabilities are discussed. The paper concludes with recommendations for the development of a physical activity guide for Canadians with physical disabilities.

Gowans SE, deHueck A. · aAllied Health, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. · Curr Opin Rheumatol. · Pubmed #17278933 No free full text.

Abstract: PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The benefits of general aerobic exercise for individuals with fibromyalgia have been established. Recently, there have been a number of randomized controlled trials that evaluate the benefits of pool exercise for fibromyalgia. This review will integrate the results of eight pool exercise studies that have been published in the last 7 years. RECENT FINDINGS: Pool exercise has been evaluated against sedentary control groups, land-based exercise and immersion in a warm, mineralized pool. Pool exercise has been shown to be as effective as land-based exercise and may have greater benefits with respect to mood and sleep duration. Based on follow-up studies, exercise-induced improvements in physical function, pain and mood may persist for up to 2 years. Pool exercise may be better tolerated as an initial means of exercise by individuals with arthritis in weight-bearing joints (because of water buoyancy) or by individuals who fear exercise will exacerbate their pain. SUMMARY: Pool exercise can be an effective intervention for individuals with fibromyalgia. Future studies should reassess subjects at multiple time points to determine the time course of exercise-induced improvements and further explore the effects of pool exercise on mood and sleep quality.

Havas M. · Environmental and Resource Studies, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. · Electromagn Biol Med. · Pubmed #17178585 No free full text.

Abstract: Dirty electricity is a ubiquitous pollutant. It flows along wires and radiates from them and involves both extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields and radio frequency radiation. Until recently, dirty electricity has been largely ignored by the scientific community. Recent inventions of metering and filter equipment provide scientists with the tools to measure and reduce dirty electricity on electrical wires. Several case studies and anecdotal reports are presented. Graham/Stetzer (GS) filters have been installed in schools with sick building syndrome and both staff and students reported improved health and more energy. The number of students needing inhalers for asthma was reduced in one school and student behavior associated with ADD/ADHD improved in another school. Blood sugar levels for some diabetics respond to the amount of dirty electricity in their environment. Type 1 diabetics require less insulin and Type 2 diabetics have lower blood sugar levels in an electromagnetically clean environment. Individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis have better balance and fewer tremors. Those requiring a cane walked unassisted within a few days to weeks after GS filters were installed in their home. Several disorders, including asthma, ADD/ADHD, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, are increasing at an alarming rate, as is electromagnetic pollution in the form of dirty electricity, ground current, and radio frequency radiation from wireless devices. The connection between electromagnetic pollution and these disorders needs to be investigated and the percentage of people sensitive to this form of energy needs to be determined.

Lam DK, Sessle BJ, Cairns BE, Hu JW. · Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. · Pain Res Manag. · Pubmed #16175250 links to  free full text

Abstract: The purpose of the present review is to correlate recent knowledge of the role of peripheral ionotropic glutamate receptors in the temporomandibular joint and muscle pain from animal and human experimental pain models with findings in patients. Chronic pain is common, and many people suffer from chronic pain conditions involving deep craniofacial tissues such as temporomandibular disorders or fibromyalgia. Animal and human studies have indicated that the activation of peripheral ionotropic glutamate receptors in deep craniofacial tissues may contribute to muscle and temporomandibular joint pain and that sex differences in the activation of glutamate receptors may be involved in the female predominance in temporomandibular disorders and fibromyalgia. A peripheral mechanism involving autocrine and/or paracrine regulation of nociceptive neuronal excitability via injury or inflammation-induced release of glutamate into peripheral tissues that may contribute to the development of craniofacial pain is proposed.

Gowans SE, deHueck A. · Department of Rehabilitation Services, University Health Network, Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. · Curr Opin Rheumatol. · Pubmed #14770100 No free full text.

Abstract: PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Exercise was established as an integral part of the nonpharmacological treatment of fibromyalgia approximately 20 years ago. Since then many studies have investigated the effects of exercise-either alone or in combination with other interventions. This review will discuss the benefits of exercise alone and provide practical suggestions on how patients can exercise without causing a long-term exacerbation of their pain. RECENT FINDINGS: Short-term exercise programs for individuals with fibromyalgia have consistently improved physical function, especially physical fitness, and reduced tenderpoint pain. Exercise has also produced improvements in self-efficacy. These effects can persist for periods of up to 2 years but may require participants to continue to exercise. Most exercise studies have examined the effects of moderately intense aerobic exercise. Only in the past 2 years have muscle-strengthening programs, in isolation, been evaluated. To be well tolerated, exercise programs must start at a level just below the capacity of the participants and then progress slowly. Even with these precautions, exercise may still produce tolerable, short-term increases in pain and fatigue that should abate within the first few weeks of exercising. SUMMARY: Future studies should investigate the possible benefits of low-intensity exercise and test strategies that may enhance long-term compliance with exercise. Individuals with fibromyalgia also need to be able to access community exercise programs that are appropriate for them. This may require community instructors to receive instruction on exercise prescription and progression for individuals with fibromyalgia.

Moldofsky H. · Sleep Disorders Clinic of the Centre for Sleep and Chronobiology, 340 College Street, Suite 580, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada. · Rheum Dis Clin North Am. · Pubmed #12122923 No free full text.

Abstract: In summary, the treatment of patients with FM requires a proper assessment of the reason for the unrefreshing sleep, which is an important component of the FM syndrome. Sleep laboratory investigations provides a suitable rationale for management where a specific primary sleep disorder is determined. Nonspecific treatments include various behavioral approaches to improve sleep hygiene, fitness, and regular proper nutrition that serve to regularize disturbances in circadian sleep-wake rhythms. As yet, no medication is known to improve the EEG sleep arousal disorders that include phasic (alpha-delta), tonic alpha non-REM sleep disorders, or the periodic K alpha cycling alternating pattern disorder. Traditional hypnotic agents, while helpful in initiating and maintaining sleep and reducing daytime tiredness, do not provide restorative sleep or reduce pain. Tricyclic drugs, such as amitriptyline and cyclobenzaprine, may provide long term benefit for improving sleep but may not have a continuing benefit beyond one month for reducing pain. The use of a biologic agent that facilitates sleep-related neuroendocrine functions, for example growth hormone, is reported to improve symptoms but the need for injection and high cost restrict its use. No systematic studies have been reported on the use of remedial measures for the management of PLMS/restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea that occur in some patients with FM.

Bernstein RM. · Family Medicine Centre, Elizabeth Bruyere Health Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. · Clin J Pain. · Pubmed #11783838 No free full text.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review was to determine how effective surgery and injection therapy are in the management of chronic pain. METHODOLOGY: A standardized literature search identified seven systematic reviews of the literature and six randomized controlled trials to provide evidence about surgery and injection therapy for chronic pain. RESULTS: Some study subjects had highly specific diagnoses, whereas other study subject groups had nonspecific pain, including multiple conditions. The timing of treatment interventions was generally unclear, and few studies analyzed subgroups. Overall, there was a lack of methodologically sound studies of surgery and injection therapies. CONCLUSIONS: Standard discectomy compared with conservative treatment for proven disc herniation (< or = 1 year) and local triamcinolone injection for lateral epicondylitis (< or = 12 weeks) are both effective for pain relief (level 2). There was limited evidence of effectiveness (level 3) of intraoperative steroid at discectomy, epidural steroid injection for sciatica with low back pain, caudal steroid injection for low back pain, local glycosaminoglycan polyphosphate injection for lateral epicondylitis, intraarticular steroid injection for shoulder arthritis, subacromial steroid injections for rotator cuff tendinitis, nonspecific injections for painful shoulder, systemic growth hormone for fibromyalgia, and intravenous adenosine for fibromyalgia. There was limited evidence (level 3) that there is no additional benefit of adding steroid to local anesthetic in caudal epidural injections. There is limited evidence (level 3) that intravenous adenosine is ineffective for fibromyalgia. The remaining evidence was inadequate (level 4a) or contradictory (level 4b).

Moulin DE. · Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences/Oncology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada. · Clin J Pain. · Pubmed #11783837 No free full text.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review was to determine how effective different classes of analgesic agents are in the management of chronic pain. METHODOLOGY: The literature search identified five systematic reviews and 18 randomized controlled trials to provide evidence about systemic drug treatment for chronic pain. RESULTS: Studies in the systematic reviews were mainly of low back pain, and studies in the randomized controlled trials were mainly of fibromyalgia. Other studies investigated of rheumatic pain, musculoskeletal pain, chronic low back pain, and temporomandibular pain. Classes of analgesic agents reviewed were antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, opioid analgesics, and a number of miscellaneous agents. CONCLUSIONS: For chronic pain, opioid analgesics provide benefit for up to 9 weeks (level 2). For chronic low back pain, the evidence shows that various types of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are equally effective or ineffective, and that antidepressants provide no benefit in the short to intermediate term (level 2). Muscle relaxants showed limited effectiveness (level 3) for chronic neck pain and for chronic low back pain for up to 4 weeks. For fibromyalgia, there is limited evidence (level 3) of the effectiveness of amitryptiline, ondansetron, zoldipem, or growth hormone, and evidence of no effectiveness for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, malic acid with magnesium, calcitonin injections, or s-adenyl-L-methionine. For temporomandibular pain, oral sumatriptan is not effective (level 2). The remaining evidence was inadequate (level 4a) or contradictory (level 4b).

Mior S. · Department of Graduate Studies and Research, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, Ontario. · Clin J Pain. · Pubmed #11783835 No free full text.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review was to determine how effective exercise is in the treatment of chronic pain. METHODOLOGY: The literature search identified three systematic reviews and three randomized controlled trials addressing the effectiveness of exercise for the management of chronic low back pain, one systematic review and one randomized controlled trial addressing chronic neck pain, two systematic reviews and three randomized controlled trials addressing upper extremity pain, and three randomized controlled trials addressing fibromyalgia. RESULTS: Randomized controlled trials were better than systematic reviews for providing details of patient subgroups and of exercise programs, but there was a general lack of evaluation of the different subgroups. The studies also failed to assess the different duration and frequency of exercise programs. For chronic low back pain, a systematic review and two of the three randomized controlled trials found exercise to be effective: other findings were uncertain. For chronic neck pain, both the systematic review and the randomized controlled trial provided generally uncertain results, with only one positive-result study in the systematic review. For upper extremity, positive effects of exercise were shown for chronic lateral epicondylitis and for specific soft tissue shoulder disorders. For fibromyalgia, two of the three randomized controlled trials showed effectiveness of exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise is effective for the management of chronic low back pain for up to 1 year after treatment and for fibromyalgia syndrome for up to 6 months (level 2). There is conflicting evidence (level 4b) about which exercise program is effective for chronic low back pain. For chronic neck pain and for chronic soft tissue shoulder disorders and chronic lateral epicondylitis, evidence of effectiveness of exercise is limited (level 3).

Nielson WR, Weir R. · Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada. · Clin J Pain. · Pubmed #11783824 No free full text.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Biopsychosocial treatments address the range of physical, psychological, and social components of chronic pain. OBJECTIVE: This review sought to determine how effective unimodal and multimodal biopsychosocial approaches are in the treatment of chronic pain. METHODOLOGY: The literature search identified three systematic reviews of the literature and 21 randomized controlled trials to provide the evidence for this review. RESULTS: The systematic reviews and 12 randomized controlled trials reported on chronic low back pain. Other randomized controlled trials studied fibromyalgia (three trials) and back or other musculoskeletal disorders (five trials). Biopsychosocial components reviewed were electromyogram feedback and hypnosis as unimodal approaches, and behavioral and cognitive-behavioral treatments and back school, or group education, as multimodal approaches for chronic low back pain. For other chronic pain disorders, cognitive-behavioral treatments were reviewed. Comparisons were hindered by studies with heterogeneous subjects, varied comparison groups, different cointerventions and follow-up times, variable outcomes, and a range of analytic methods. CONCLUSIONS: Multimodal biopsychosocial treatments that include cognitive-behavioral and/or behavioral components are effective for chronic low back pain and other musculoskeletal pain for up to 12 months (level 2). There is limited evidence (level 3) that electromyogram feedback is effective for chronic low back pain for up to 3 months. The remaining evidence of longer-term effectiveness and of effectiveness of other interventions was inadequate (level 4a) or contradictory (level 4b). Future studies of cognitive-behavioral treatments should be condition specific, rather than include patients with different pain conditions.

Brown GT, Delisle R, Gagnon N, Sauvé AE. · Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8L1. · Phys Occup Ther Pediatr. · Pubmed #11715801 No free full text.

Abstract: In recent years, fibromyalgia has become an increasingly recognized chronic syndrome. Although it occurs more frequently in adults, it is also seen among school-age children and adolescents. In such cases, it is known as juvenile fibromyalgia syndrome (JFS). The widespread pain and other possible symptoms associated with JFS can have a negative impact on the occupational performance and developmental tasks of children and adolescents. As experts in the areas of occupational performance, daily functional skills, and child development, occupational therapists have a potential role to play in the assessment and management of children and adolescents with JFS. To date, however, no occupational therapy management approach for clients with JFS has been documented in the professional literature. In this paper, we outline the clinical features of JFS, pertinent assessment areas, and potential management strategies using a cognitive-behavioral approach.

Moldofsky HK. · Sleep Disorders Clinic, Centre for Sleep & Chronobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. · Dent Clin North Am. · Pubmed #11699237 No free full text.

Abstract: Myofascial pain and fibromyalgia have a recognized relationship to sleep disturbances. Understanding the comorbidity of these entities helps the practitioner, physician and dentist alike, be better prepared to manage the causative factors related to these conditions rather than treating only the symptoms. The increasing recognition of the coexistence of fibromyalgia, myofascial pain in the head and neck region, and the presence of temporomandibular disorders further increases the need for the dentist to be aware of sleep as a contributory factor from the diagnostic and the therapeutic aspects. This awareness results in more comprehensive management and an improved opportunity for optimal patient management as well as improved sleep and diminished pain levels.

Nielson WR, Merskey H. · Arthritis Institute, St. Joseph's Health Care, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, Ontario N6A 4V2, Canada. · Curr Pain Headache Rep. · Pubmed #11403736 No free full text.

Abstract: The view that fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a psychiatric disorder or can be caused by stress or abuse is unproven. The construct of posttraumatic FMS has not been adequately validated. Similarly, there is no evidence that communicating the diagnosis to patients causes iatrogenic consequences. Research suggesting a higher rate of posttraumatic stress disorder among those with FMS is weak. More research examining specific psychological processes in FMS is desirable. Because of the potential for harm to patients, clinicians should be cognizant of possible undue influences on medical opinion by agencies providing health care and research funding.

White KP, Harth M. · Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, K289, 268 Grosvenor Street, P.O. Box 5777, London, Ontario N6A 4V2, Canada. · Curr Pain Headache Rep. · Pubmed #11403735 No free full text.

Abstract: Fibromyalgia (FM), also known as fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and fibrositis, is a common form of nonarticular rheumatism that is associated with chronic generalized musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and a long list of other complaints. Some have criticized the classification of FM as a distinct medical entity, but existing data suggest that individuals meeting the case definition for FM are clinically somewhat distinct from those with chronic widespread pain who do not meet the full FM definition. Clinic studies have found FM to be common in countries worldwide; these include studies in specialty and general clinics. The same is true of general population studies, which show the prevalence of FM to be between 0.5% and 5%. Knowledge about risk factors for FM is limited. Females are at greater risk, and risk appears to increase through middle age, then decline. Although some authors claim that an epidemic of FM has been fueled by an over-generous Western compensation system, there are no data that demonstrate an increasing incidence or prevalence of FM; moreover, existing data refute any association between FM prevalence and compensation. Claims that the FM label itself causes illness behavior and increased dependence on the medical system also are not supported by existing research. This article reviews the classification, epidemiology, and natural history of FM.

Tunks E, Crook J. · Chedoke Rehabilitation Services, Hamilton Health Science Corporation, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3Z5, Canada. · Baillieres Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. · Pubmed #10952868 No free full text.

Abstract: This chapter deals with four main questions: what is the evidence that 'myofascial pain' syndromes exist?; what is the evidence that the myofascial pain concept is clinically useful?; what is the evidence that managing patients in terms of the myofascial pain diagnosis confers benefits?; and what is the evidence-based management of myofascial pain? The purpose of a diagnosis is to provide boundaries around subgroups of illness in a population since each subgroup presumably has a different mechanism, natural history, prognosis, course and response to treatment. The current literature is divided in its conceptual approach to the problem of regional musculoskeletal pain. Some authors regard myofascial pain as being distinct from regional musculoskeletal pain while others regard these as synonymous. A postulated theory of the pathophysiology of myofascial pain is discussed. This contrasts with a view that regional myofascial pain represents a non-specific localized pain arising from multiple regional, systemic and psychosocial factors. In order to consider myofascial pain as a distinct diagnosis, it would be necessary to resolve reliability issues in the identification of its critical diagnostic features. Beyond reliability issues, there are also problems of sensitivity and specificity--i.e. of the patient population that it identifies--which must be resolved if controlled trials are to be conducted. The clinical usefulness of the myofascial pain diagnosis is considered with regard to what is believed about the course of healing, the determinants of disability, the course of regional versus widespread musculoskeletal pain, the relationship of musculoskeletal injury to pain, and the evidence-based management of musculoskeletal pain. An epidemiological perspective is proposed with regard to regional musculoskeletal pain. This allows for the identification of operationally defined strata of regional musculoskeletal pain and permits studies in course, prognosis and treatment, even though some conceptual issues such as the 'myofascial pain diagnosis' remain to be clarified.

White KP, Carette S, Harth M, Teasell RW. · Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada. · Semin Arthritis Rheum. · Pubmed #10707989 No free full text.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The primary objective is to review current research with respect to the role of trauma in fibromyalgia (FM). A secondary objective is to hypothesize which steps need to be taken, first to determine whether such an association truly exists, and second to clarify what such an association might mean. METHODS: An extensive literature review was undertaken, including Medline from 1979 to the present. RESULTS: The strongest evidence supporting an association between trauma and FM is a recently published Israeli study in which adults with neck injuries had greater than a 10-fold increased risk of developing FM within 1 year of their injury, compared with adults with lower extremity fractures (P= .001). Several other studies provide a hypothetical construct for such an association. These include studies on (1) postinjury sleep abnormalities; (2) local injury sites as a source of chronic distant regional pain; and (3) the concept of neuroplasticity. There are, however, several primary arguments against such an association: (1) FM may not be a distinct clinical entity; (2) FM may be a psychological, rather than physical, disease; (3) the evidence supporting any association is limited and not definitive; (4) the Israeli study, itself, has some methodological limitations; and (5) other factors may be more important than the injurious event in determining chronic symptoms after an acute injury. CONCLUSIONS: Although there is some evidence supporting an association between trauma and FM, the evidence is not definitive. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm this association and to identify whether trauma has a causal role.