Kinesiophobia and related factors in fibromyalgia syndrome

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the kinesiophobia levels in female patients with fibromyalgia (FMS). In addition, we intended to search the factors associated with kinesiophobia in patients with FMS and to evaluate the effect of kinesiophobia on work outcomes in this patient population.Materials and Methods: Between January 2021 and May 2021, 50 female patients with FMS and 44 female patients with musculoskeletal pain but not meeting the diagnostic criteria for FMS were included in the study. Pain was evaluated using the numeric scale, kinesiophobia levels with the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), and the work outcomes with a questionnaire form prepared by us.Results: The median TSK scores were 41,50 (21-61) in the FMS group and 37 (23-61) in the control group. TSK score was significantly higher in the FMS group (p=0.030). Pain scores (p<0.001), and symptom duration (p<0.001) were significantly associated with high levels of kinesiophobia. When multiple linear regression analysis was performed, it was found that body mass index (p=0.411) was not associated with kinesiophobia levels, whereas age (p<0.001) was associated with kinesiophobia levels. Increased levels of kinesiophobia in patients with FMS patients have been associated with worse work outcomes.Conclusion: Evaluating the level of kinesiophobia in patients with FMS and developing preventive strategies in the presence of kinesiophobia can provide useful information when creating a treatment program.