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Largest-ever genetic study of fibromyalgia points to a neurological origin of the disorder and opens the door to new treatments

A landmark study identifies new genetic risk factors associated with fibromyalgia syndrome, pointing to a neurological origin of the disorder. The research found substantial overlap between fibromyalgia and other conditions, suggesting shared biological mechanisms that may benefit from targeted therapies.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Ultrasound has potential to alter how the brain responds to pain

A new study suggests that ultrasound stimulation can bring about functionally meaningful changes in pain perception and brain connectivity. The research found a delayed analgesic effect, with participants reporting reduced pain intensity after 28-55 minutes following TUS application.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2026

TENS improves pain and fatigue in fibromyalgia

A new study led by University of Iowa Health Care researchers found that TENS reduced movement-evoked pain and fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia, with effects lasting for at least six months. The treatment was also shown to be safe, effective, inexpensive, and readily available.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 27, 2026
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Discovering the “brain fingerprints” of chronic pain

A team of researchers has developed a method to decode fluctuations in spontaneous pain intensity in individuals with chronic pain using extensively sampled functional MRI data. The study found that neural patterns underlying pain differ markedly between individuals, highlighting the importance of individualized brain-based biomarkers.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Ketamine use in chronic pain unsupported by evidence

A new Cochrane review has found no clear evidence of benefit for ketamine in treating chronic pain conditions. The review identified an increased risk of adverse effects such as delusions and vomiting. High-quality trials are needed to determine the role of ketamine in chronic pain care.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 17, 2025

Poor oral health linked with body pain and migraines in women

A new study from the University of Sydney found that poor oral health is significantly associated with higher instances of migraines and abdominal/pain in women. The research identified specific oral microbes correlated with certain pain conditions, including fibromyalgia.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFrontiers in Pain Research·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Cannabis terpenes offer potential new way to treat fibromyalgia pain

Research at the University of Arizona Health Sciences found that certain terpenes in Cannabis sativa are effective at relieving post-surgical and fibromyalgia pain in preclinical models. Terpenes have been shown to provide significant pain relief in mouse models, with geraniol providing the most significant level of pain relief.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalPharmacological Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 12, 2025

Electrical nerve stimulation eases long COVID pain and fatigue

A wearable electrical nerve stimulation device has been shown to provide significant relief from long COVID symptoms such as pain and fatigue. Researchers found that the high-dose TENS group experienced notable improvements in pain relief and walking ability.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 25, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New study highlights scale and impact of long COVID

The review paper examines the scope of people affected by long COVID, ranging from fatigue to cognitive impairment, and current treatment options. Researchers emphasize the need for biomarkers and targeted therapies to address root causes of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2024

University of Cincinnati, Swing Therapeutics study: Mobile app therapy leads to significant improvement in fibromyalgia management

A new study published in The Lancet found that a self-guided smartphone-based behavioral therapy led to significant improvements for patients with fibromyalgia. Stanza, a smartphone app delivering acceptance and commitment therapy, showed improved symptoms including pain intensity, fatigue, and depression.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 8, 2024

Study shows first evidence of sex differences in how pain can be produced

A recent study published in BRAIN found that males and females differ in their experience of pain due to functional sex differences in nociceptors. The findings support the implementation of a precision medicine-based approach considering patient sex as fundamental to treatment choices.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 10, 2024

Two types of CBT are equally effective in the treatment of fibromyalgia

A study published in PAIN found that exposure-based CBT and traditional CBT are equally effective in reducing symptoms of fibromyalgia. The study involved 274 participants with fibromyalgia and showed significant reductions in symptoms and functional impairment after 10-week treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPain·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 22, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Cognitive behavioral therapy eases how fibromyalgia pain is experienced by the brain

A randomized controlled trial found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduces fibromyalgia pain by decreasing pain-catastrophizing, a negative response that amplifies pain. CBT participants showed reduced connectivity between brain regions associated with self-awareness and emotional processing.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 20, 2023

Raising awareness of Long Covid ‘blue legs’ symptom

A new research case study published in The Lancet highlights the need for greater awareness of the 'blue legs' symptom associated with Long Covid. Acrocyanosis, a venous pooling of blood in the legs, can be a symptom of dysautonomia and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in patients with Long Covid.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 11, 2023

Fibromyalgia linked to heightened risk of death

A systematic review suggests fibromyalgia is associated with a 27% heightened risk of death from all causes, with elevated risks for cancer, accidents, and infections. Regular monitoring of patients' physical and mental health is crucial to minimize these risks.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalRMD Open·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 10, 2023

Fibromyalgia changes the brain

Researchers found changes in grey matter volume in pain-processing areas of the brain, with decreased volume in regions responsible for inhibiting pain. The study also revealed altered signal transmission in the thalamus and correlations between brain structure and perceptional characteristics.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateMay 26, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions vulnerable to long term opioid use

Researchers warn that patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions are vulnerable to long term opioid use. The study found that up to 1 in 3 patients with rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia may be at risk of transitioning to long term opioid use, highlighting the need for vigilance in practice prescribing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateMay 16, 2023

Most antidepressants prescribed for chronic pain lack reliable evidence of efficacy or safety, scientists warn

A Cochrane review found that most antidepressants used to manage chronic pain lack sufficient evidence of their effectiveness, with only duloxetine showing reliable pain relief. The review also revealed that harms from many commonly recommended drugs have not been well studied, posing a global public health concern.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 9, 2023

Pain out of control

A study by Ruhr-University Bochum's Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy found altered brain activity in patients with fibromyalgia, which may contribute to the disorder's characteristic inability to control pain. The research provides new insights into the neural mechanisms underlying chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNeuroImage Clinical·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

E-health reduces patient pain, opioids in clinical study

A recent clinical study found that an online e-health program helped more people with chronic pain reduce their opioid medications and pain intensity than a control group. The program, called Goalistics Chronic Pain Management, improved pain knowledge, confidence managing pain, and coping skills.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPain·DateApr 3, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Fibromyalgia may worsen opioid addiction, study finds

A recent study has found a significant link between fibromyalgia and increased odds of exacerbation in pain-related opioid use disorder. Researchers surveyed 125 individuals living with both conditions, revealing that those with fibromyalgia were more likely to report worsening addiction symptoms due to chronic pain.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalPain·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 28, 2023

Dedicated protocol of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more effective than the drug treatment available today for fibromyalgia caused by head injury

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that dedicated hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more effective in reducing pain and healing patients with fibromyalgia caused by traumatic brain injury. The treatment resulted in significant improvements in 2 out of 5 patients, including improved pain threshold tests and quality of life indicators.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 22, 2023

Most antidepressants ineffective for common pain conditions

Researchers found that while some antidepressants are effective for certain pain conditions, most are either ineffective or the evidence is inconclusive. A more nuanced approach is needed when prescribing antidepressants for pain, say experts.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 1, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Helping patients manage long covid

A new home-based test, aAP, allows patients to monitor their autonomic responses and make lifestyle changes to alleviate symptoms. This test reduces NHS resource demand and provides clinicians with valuable insights into patient triggers.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAdvances in Clinical Neuroscience & Rehabilitation·DateAug 23, 2022

New therapy shown to be effective in women with fibromyalgia and depression

A multicentre study has proven personal construct therapy as effective as cognitive-behavioural therapy in improving quality of life and symptoms of depression in patients with fibromyalgia. The therapy focused on people's identity and how they see themselves, offering a personalized approach to treatment.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2022

First study to analyse brain changes associated with juvenile fibromyalgia

A study published in Arthritis and Rheumatology characterizes grey matter volume alterations in adolescents affected by juvenile fibromyalgia, revealing a link between brain region activity and pain processing. The research suggests therapeutic strategies to modulate the activity in brain circuits involved with emotion and language.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Fibromyalgia likely the result of autoimmune problems

Fibromyalgia is a disease of the immune system, according to new research that shows patient antibodies increase pain-sensing nerve activity throughout the body. Antibodies from people with FMS cause symptoms like increased pain sensitivity and muscle weakness.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

People with fibromyalgia are substituting CBD for opioids to manage pain

A new study found that over 70% of people with fibromyalgia who use CBD substitute it for opioids or other pain medications, reporting improved symptom relief. CBD is being used as a harm reduction strategy due to its non-intoxicating properties and lower potential for abuse.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Pain·DateJun 24, 2021

Nerve stimulation may benefit women with fibromyalgia

A recent clinical trial found that nerve stimulation via TENS significantly improved movement-related pain and fatigue in women with fibromyalgia. The treatment, given along with standard treatments, offers a non-invasive self-management option for chronic pain management.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateJan 6, 2020

Domestic abuse survivors twice at risk of long-term illnesses

Female survivors of domestic abuse are nearly twice as likely to develop fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome compared to non-abused women. The study examined GP records of 18,547 abused women and found a significant association between abuse and these long-term illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateDec 5, 2019

Gut bacteria associated with chronic pain for first time

A Montreal-based research team has found a correlation between gut bacteria and chronic pain in people with fibromyalgia. Variations in the microbiome composition of approximately 20 different species of bacteria were observed in individuals with fibromyalgia compared to healthy control subjects.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalPain·DateJun 20, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Does insulin resistance cause fibromyalgia?

Researchers have discovered a significant link between insulin resistance and fibromyalgia, enabling the use of metformin medication to reduce pain levels. The study found that most patients with fibromyalgia can be identified by their A1c levels, which reflect average blood sugar levels over two to three months.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2019

Experimental blood test accurately spots fibromyalgia

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a blood test that can reliably detect fibromyalgia by identifying unique biomarkers in the blood. The discovery has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for patients with this often-misdiagnosed disease, which affects millions of Americans.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 18, 2019

Study links adult fibromyalgia to childhood sexual abuse

A Tel Aviv University study finds a link between chronic pain syndrome fibromyalgia and post-traumatic physical and psychological distress from childhood sexual abuse. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions are shown to be an effective treatment for survivors, improving quality of life and brain functionality.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 6, 2019

Are most patients with fibromyalgia misdiagnosed?

A recent study found that only fair agreement exists between clinicians' diagnosis of fibromyalgia and the published criteria used by the American College of Rheumatology. Clinicians failed to identify nearly half of patients who met the criteria, highlighting a need for improved diagnostic methods.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 6, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Patients with facial pain report most benefit from self-care techniques

A new study by NYU College of Dentistry suggests that self-care techniques, such as jaw exercises and warm compresses, should be the first line of treatment for muscle-related temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The study found that patients with TMD reported significant improvement in their pain from these non-medication treatments.

SourceNew York University·JournalClinical Oral Investigations·DateFeb 4, 2019

Painful intercourse in women improved with fibromyalgia drug

A Rutgers study found that Gabapentin reduces pain and improves sexual desire and satisfaction in women with vulvodynia, a condition characterized by stinging, burning, or itching at the vaginal entry point.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 2, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

More doctor visits lead to less suicide attempts for fibromyalgia patients

Fibromyalgia patients who regularly visit their physicians are much less likely to attempt suicide than those who do not. Regular care engagement is key in managing the disorder and reducing risk of suicide. The study suggests connecting patients at-risk with outpatient providers can improve care and reduce suicidal risk.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateSep 19, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Does an exploding brain network cause chronic pain?

Hyperreactive brain networks may contribute to the hypersensitivity of fibromyalgia. Researchers found that patients with fibromyalgia have brain networks primed for rapid responses to minor changes, leading to explosive synchronization.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 12, 2018

Strong relationship between self-efficacy and exercise among women veterans discovered

A strong relationship was discovered between self-efficacy and exercise among women veterans with fibromyalgia, revealing positive effects on exercise adoption and maintenance. The study highlights the importance of tailored exercise programs to individual needs, aiming to improve overall quality of life and functioning.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateDec 12, 2017

New Wayne State research findings offers hope to people with fibromyalgia

A novel therapy, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), has been found helpful in reducing widespread pain and symptoms of fibromyalgia. Patients who received EAET showed significant improvements compared to those receiving education or cognitive behavioral therapy.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalPain·DateSep 21, 2017

Does widespread pain stem from the brain? MRI study investigates

A recent study published in Pain investigated widespread pain and its relation to the brain. Researchers found that individuals with widespread pain had increased gray matter and brain connectivity in sensory and motor cortical areas, similar to those with fibromyalgia.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPain·DateAug 10, 2017

Chronic pain researchers to expand work with $7.5M award from NIH

The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $7.5 million grant to researchers at the University of Michigan to study chronic pain. The team aims to investigate how peripheral damage, inflammation, and central nervous system factors interact to cause chronic pain, with potential breakthroughs in treating high levels of chronic pain

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateOct 17, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Neural signature for fibromyalgia may aid diagnosis, treatment

Researchers at CU Boulder discovered a neural signature that identifies fibromyalgia patients with 93% accuracy, a potential breakthrough for diagnosis and treatment. The study used functional MRI scans to identify three sub-markers that correlate with pain hypersensitivity in fibromyalgia.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPain·DateOct 17, 2016

Study shows swimming is an effective part of the treatment for fibromyalgia

Researchers found that swimming was as beneficial as walking in reducing pain intensity and improving quality of life for patients with fibromyalgia. Both swimming and walking improved scores on clinically validated questionnaires, indicating significant improvements in physical function and mental health.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateAug 18, 2016

Doubling up to fight pain

Researchers at Queen's University have found that combining pregabalin with duloxetine improves fibromyalgia symptoms, offering a new treatment option for patients. The study suggests that this combination can safely improve pain relief, physical function, and overall quality of life.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPain·DateJul 13, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Third to half of UK population lives with chronic pain

A recent analysis found that approximately 43% of the UK population, around 28 million adults, suffer from chronic pain. The prevalence is expected to rise as the population ages, with older individuals being more likely to experience long-term pain. Women are also more likely to be affected by chronic pain than men.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 20, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

High-pressure oxygen can effectively treat fibromyalgia

A Tel Aviv University study found that hyperbaric oxygen treatment can drastically reduce or eliminate fibromyalgia symptoms, enabling patients to discontinue pain medication. The research also identified the primary factor causing fibromyalgia: brain mechanism for processing pain disruption.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 14, 2015

Hyperbaric hope for fibromyalgia sufferers

A clinical trial involving women diagnosed with fibromyalgia showed significant improvements in symptoms after undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Brain scans revealed changes in brain activity that may be responsible for the syndrome's chronic pain sensation.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015