Future Directions in Fibromyalgia Research and Care

Will calls for more sensitive outcome measures to help stratify treatment, pointing to a measure proposed by Pete Moore of the Pain Toolkit. A widely reported blood test picks up only some cases, which suggests fibromyalgia may turn out to be several related conditions. Research led by Professor Anthony Jones identified alpha wave activity and overactive brain areas during experimental pain in people with fibromyalgia, supporting it as an organic and treatable diagnosis. Current trials send tailored visual or auditory stimulation through virtual reality before bedtime, aiming to improve sleep and reduce pain. In the UK, policy is moving diagnosis and management toward primary care and allied health professionals, supported by workforce reports and evidence that nurse-led clinics can be cost-effective. About one in six patients with inflammatory arthritis also have features of fibromyalgia, which can explain apparent drug failure, so every MSK clinician needs to recognize it. He closes by encouraging clinicians to diagnose and treat these patients through education, sleep advice, exercise and medication when needed.