Cure Research for Fibromyalgia
Research discussion: Basic research studies to advance our understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of sleep and sleep disorders are also included in the NIAMS research portfolio. One specific project on mice focuses on identifying genetic factors that underlie molecular events involved in the regulation of sleep. A wealth of information on the neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, and neurophysiology of sleep provides a firm foundation for a genetic approach to studies of sleep. This project will use genetics to screen for single gene mutations that affect sleep patterns in mice. Understanding this in mice will advance understanding of how this translates to humans. Other basic research studies using animal models are investigating the link between sleep and long-term memory.
Examples of NIAMS-supported clinical research in fibromyalgia include comparing pain mechanisms in this disorder and low back pain; determining if aerobic exercise benefits patients with fibromyalgia through the action of the hypothalamus and pituitary and adrenal glands; and studying neuroendocrine changes in fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. The Institute is also funding a new clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of combining two antidepressants in treating the disorder.
In addition, NIAMS is currently funding research projects related to the role of behavioral factors in fibromyalgia. Investigators are evaluating the effects of two of the most promising nonpharmacologic interventions for fibromyalgia: cognitive behavioral therapy for pain management and physical exercise training. This study is designed to test the hypothesis that combining cognitive behavioral therapy and physical training will be more effective than cognitive behavioral therapy or exercise alone. If the cognitive and exercise interventions have synergistic effects in fibromyalgia patients, future studies could evaluate this combination in patients with other rheumatic diseases, or in those with stroke or burn injuries who are experiencing pain during exercise/rehabilitation regimens.
Providing social support and education about one's disease or disorder has been shown to be an effective means for improving the health care status of individuals with chronic diseases. Studies are currently underway focusing on patients with fibromyalgia to advance understanding of how social support and education interventions may be helpful to these patients as well.1
Medical research for Fibromyalgia: medical news summaries: The following medical news items are relevant to medical research for Fibromyalgia:
Footnotes:
1. excerpt from Fibromyalgia Research Challenges and Opportunities: NIAMS
Medical Tools & Articles:
Next articles:
Medical Articles: