Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a chronic widespread pain disorder that can also cause fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances, and cognitive symptoms. Because the etiology of fibromyalgia is unknown, it is difficult to treat. Research shows that medication alone is insufficient to treat the symptoms of fibromyalgia and that complementary therapies are required to fully manage this disorder. The purpose of this research was to determine what complementary therapies patients with fibromyalgia were currently using. The sample for the survey was taken from fibromyalgia support groups throughout the state of Florida. A total of 15 people diagnosed with fibromyalgia participated in the survey. The most commonly used complementary therapies included diet and relaxation techniques. The therapies that were rarely or never used were hypnotherapy, Tai Chi, and Chi (Qi) Gong. These findings provide evidence to support client education concerning the use of complementary therapies for individuals with fibromyalgia. Research with larger samples is recommended to provide further evidence of the effectiveness of complementary therapies for this patient population.

Thesis Completion

2017

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Allred, Kelly

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

College

College of Nursing

Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

May 2017

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Included in

Nursing Commons

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