Subgrouping With the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire

We know that fibromyalgia (FMS) manifests differently in different people, and now some researchers have made initial steps toward dividing us into subgroups.

Why is subgrouping important? It could help in a lot of ways: research into one subgroup may prove to be more consistent than previous research. That could lead to treatments tailored to the subgroup, which may be more consistently effective than current treatments.

In this study, researchers used the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire to see if they could identify cohesive groups with just this simple tool. They identified two:

• Type I: Lowest levels of anxiety, depression, and morning tiredness.
• Type II: Elevated levels of pain, fatigue, morning tiredness, stiffness, anxiety, and depression.

Pain and stiffness were universal symptoms, but Type II's have more of it.

It's too early to say why these distinct groups exist -- I have to wonder if it's a physiological difference, whether it has to do with how well symptoms are treated, or what the person's life is like at that moment. For me, 18 months ago I would have put myself solidly in Type II, whereas today I'd say definitely Type I.

What do you think? Which group are you in? What do you think accounts for the differences? Do you think subgrouping will help with research and treatment? Share your thoughts here or in the Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome community forum (under Newsletter & Blog Topics).

• How do you rank on the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire? Score yourself, then take the poll!