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

Objectives: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic pain condition that affects involvement in daily activities, including self-care and household responsibilities. Self-management strategies are a primary focus in treatment recommendations. However, their effectiveness depends on an individual's readiness and capacity to adopt health-promoting behaviours. This study aims to explore the experiences of adults in their self-management journey, focusing on the barriers and facilitators influencing patient activation (PA) and effective self-management.

Methods: A qualitative evidence synthesis was conducted. An electronic search was performed using the following databases: CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, Medline, ScienceDirect and AMED. The studies were screened against eligibility criteria to ensure their relevance. The quality of the included studies was assessed against the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) questionnaire for qualitative studies and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Findings from the papers were synthesized via the three-stage thematic synthesis process, and common themes were identified.

Results: Nine studies with a total of 130 participants were included. Four major analytical themes were identified, including legitimizing FMS, the value of medical support, receiving peer and social support, and learning to self-manage.

Conclusion: Self-management of FMS requires patients to be actively involved in managing their health. These findings highlight that support from HCPs, family members and peers helps patients learn how to self-manage and engage in health-promoting behaviours. Clinicians treating people with FMS should prioritize education, empathy and personalized support.