The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust recently hosted a workshop for patients with fibromyalgia and professionals who offer support.
Fibromyalgia is a long-term, chronic condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body with other symptoms including fatigue, trouble sleeping and cognitive issues. The condition has no current cure and affects around 2.5 million people in the United Kingdom.
Over 80 patients joined the workshop and got to hear from several health and care professionals on the support that is available, as well as receiving the opportunity to share lived experiences and connect with others living with fibromyalgia.
Dr Lucy Martin, chief of primary care said: “Bringing patients with lived experience of fibromyalgia together is a great way for us to understand some of the frustrations of living with fibromyalgia.
We had fantastic attendance at our online workshop with positive discussions between patients and clinicians in identifying help and support that can enhance the quality of everyday life.”
One of the key aims of the workshop was to gather information from patients that will contribute to a report, aiding the development of a co-produced, self-management programme for patients living with the condition.
Diane Wake, chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust said: “I am extremely pleased to hear how beneficial this workshop was for patients, and health and care staff alike.
It is important that we place an emphasis on fibromyalgia as a condition that massively affects people’s day-to-day living, and the support we can offer as a Trust moving forward.”
