The role of life stress in fibromyalgia

Abstract

This paper focuses on recent evidence of etiopathogenetic links between fibromyalgia and life stress. From an etiologic point of view, studies concerning the role of adverse life events, personality and lifestyle factors, post-traumatic stress, and negative childhood experiences are reviewed. From a pathogenetic point of view, neurobiologic links between stress and fibromyalgia symptoms, notably chronic pain and fatigue are highlighted. Finally, several methodologic issues with regard to stress research on fibromyalgia, as well as the clinical relevance of the stress concept for fibromyalgia are discussed.