A taxonomy of threat and soothing influences in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases and central sensitivity syndromes.
Hijne, Kim, Gerritsen, Lotte, Pinto, Ana M et al.·International journal of clinical and health psychology : IJCHP·2024
This study asked nearly 700 people with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, and related conditions what makes their symptoms worse and what helps them feel better. Researchers then organized these responses into 8 types of 'threats' (things that worsen symptoms, like stress or overactivity) and 10 types of 'soothers' (things that help, like rest, support from others, and understanding). The results create a practical checklist that doctors and patients can use together to identify what triggers each person's symptoms and what treatments might help most.