P104 Exploring patient activation and self-management experiences in adults with fibromyalgia: A qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Yung Kit , Jadhav Durva , Ma Cheuk , Majgaonkar Saskhee , Manai Eya , Pearson Jennifer 
Published: April 2024

Background/Aims

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic pain condition that impacts daily functioning, including self-care and household responsibilities. Effective self-management strategies are essential for managing FMS; however, success depends on an individual’s readiness and capacity to adopt health-promoting behaviours. This qualitative evidence synthesis explored the experiences of adults in their self-management, focusing on understanding the barriers and facilitators influencing patient activation (PA) and effective self-management in the context of FMS.

Methods

A qualitative evidence synthesis was undertaken. An electronic search was conducted across several databases, including AMED, PubMed, CINAHL, Science Direct, and PsycINFO. Eligibility criteria were applied to screen studies for relevance. Quality assessment was conducted using established tools, including the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) questionnaire for qualitative studies and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Checklist (COREC). Findings from the selected papers underwent a three-stage thematic synthesis process to identify common themes.

Results

Nine studies, comprising a total of 130 participants, were included in the synthesis. Four analytical themes were identified: legitimising FMS, the value of medical support, receiving peer and social support, and learning to self-manage. These themes highlight the multifaceted nature of self-management in FMS. The first theme of legitimising FMS shows how people living with FMS validate their condition, seeking acknowledgement and understanding from healthcare providers and their social support network. The second theme of the value of medical support was important in FMS management, with empathy, education, and personalised guidance from clinicians playing a crucial role in empowering patients to self-manage effectively. The third theme of receiving peer and social support shows that people with FMS found relief and empowerment through interactions with peers and social networks. This shared experience and communal support served as a catalyst for adopting health-promoting behaviours. Finally, the theme of learning to self-manage shows that active involvement in their health is a key component to living well with FMS. People living with FMS embark on a self-management journey, navigating various strategies and interventions to identify what works for them.

Conclusion

This qualitative synthesis shows that the self-management of FMS requires active involvement from people living with FMS. It illuminates the pivotal role of healthcare providers, peer support, and social networks in enabling individuals to navigate the challenges of FMS. The findings encourage a holistic approach to FMS care, emphasising the need for healthcare professionals to provide medical expertise, empathy, education, and personalised support.

Disclosure

K. Yung: None. D. Jadhav: None. C. Ma: None. S. Majgaonkar: None. E. Manai: None. J. Pearson: None.