Abstract

Fibromyalgia syndrome is a generalized soft-tissue chronic pain syndrome characterized by tenderness upon palpation of 11 of 18 tender points and generalized pain on both sides of the body for at least 3 months. In Canada, 2-10% of the population has FMS, with diagnoses being higher in women than men. Music therapy research targeting FMS and chronic pain is minimal, while other health professions have seen music as a viable intervention tool (Oneiva-Zafra et al., 2010; Prasanna, 2009; Siedlecki, 2009; Chesky 1997). Therefore, the purpose of this research was to design the initial stages of a resource-oriented music therapy support group intervention for adults living with Fibromyalgia using Fraser and Galinsky’s (2010) intervention research method. Relevant medical, psychology, and music therapy literature pertaining to FMS and chronic pain was analyzed through open, axial and selective coding. Robb, Burns and Carpenter’s (2011) checklist of guidelines for reporting music-based interventions were used as a framework for describing the proposed interventions. The overarching aims of the intervention program are to foster awareness and develop self-management strategies for those living with FMS. Vocal and receptive music therapy techniques were incorporated into the intervention design to support said overarching aims by fostering the development and maintenance of participants’ own resources and strengths. It is hoped that this research will form the basis for the further development of music therapy resources and techniques specifically designed to benefit those living with FMS and/or chronic pain.