For a study, researchers wanted to investigate the management techniques and attitudes of Canadian rheumatologists regarding fibromyalgia, as well as their compliance with guideline recommendations. Researchers used a 17-item cross-sectional survey to ask Canadian rheumatologists about their management methods in relation to the 2012 Canadian Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Fibromyalgia. The survey was completed by 140 Canadian rheumatologists out of 331 who were addressed, yielding a 42% response rate. The majority (110/138 [80%]) agreed that fibromyalgia was a helpful clinical diagnostic, but they disagreed on whether it was objectively defined (75/138 [54%]), a psychosocial disorder (42/138 [30%]), or may result in incapacity to work (37/138 [27%]). Contrary to the suggestions of the guidelines, the majority of respondents (82/134 [61%]) agreed that tender spots were beneficial for diagnosis. Half of those polled supported potentially denying consultations with fibromyalgia patients, and just 42% (59/139) thought that there were effective treatments for this illness. Most respondents controlled their fibromyalgia with education, exercise therapy, antidepressants, and nonnarcotic analgesics (≥89% for total); nevertheless, fewer than half believed that any of these methods were successful (endorsement ranged from 9% to 47% ). For a study of the 2012 guideline, researchers identified a number of significant flaws.
Rheumatologists in Canada do not often provide primary care for fibromyalgia patients. Most follow guideline guidelines for fibromyalgia care, yet few believe these measures are beneficial. More research, including an update to the 2012 Canadian Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Fibromyalgia, is needed to fill this gap.
