Perspectives on Group-Based Physical Activity Interventions for Fibromyalgia: A Qualitative Study

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a complex condition characterised by widespread persistent pain, fatigue, poor sleep quality and cognitive difficulties 1 .It affects approximately 2-5% of the global population depending on the criteria used, and the estimated UK prevalence is approximately 5.4% [2][3] .The impact of FMS at the individual and societal levels is significant.Many sufferers report poorer health related quality of life, greater psychological distress, and higher levels of disability than their agematched controls 4 .People with FMS also have significantly more comorbidities, higher associated healthcare costs, and lower income from employment when compared to age-matched controls 5 . Why is PA important in FMS? Why is PA important in FMS?The management of FMS is challenging, and, as with many chronic pain conditions, no one treatment has been shown to be universally effective 6 .Clinical guidelines recommend non-pharmacological treatment approaches Abstract Objectives: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by persistent pain, fatigue, and poor sleep, with major impacts on quality of life, psychological wellbeing, and disability.Physical activity is a cornerstone of management, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends supervised programmes tailored to individual needs.Yet, people with fibromyalgia frequently face barriers to physical activity, and few studies have explored experiences of group-based interventions.This study examined the perspectives of adults with fibromyalgia on group-based physical activity to identify challenges and inform future practice.Methods: Two focus groups were conducted with participants (n=8) recruited from Musculoskeletal and Pain Management Services in NHS Ayrshire and Arran.Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed by three independent researchers.Results: An overarching theme was a lack of understanding of the impact of fibromyalgia and a desire for validation.This was evident across all discussions.Two further themes were identified: the challenges of engaging in physical activity, and priorities for intervention design and delivery.Participants emphasised the need for practitioners who recognise the fluctuating nature of fibromyalgia and who demonstrate empathy, openness, and collaboration.Conclusions: Findings highlight the importance of practitioner understanding and patient-centred design in developing acceptable group-based physical activity interventions for people with fibromyalgia.