Want results like these?
This pilot study followed fibromyalgia patients who added general health and wellness coaching to their current fibromyalgia treatment plan. These patients were taking no medications, aside from the three approved by the FDA for fibromyalgia (Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Savella).
After one year of coaching, the severity of their pain decreased by 31%.
More importantly, their pain interfered with their lives almost half as much. (44% reduction in pain interference)
They had a dramatic reduction in doctor appointments. (11 vs. 1.5 provider visits per year, a 86% reduction in health care utilization)
This reduction was estimated to save patients $855 per year. (9.5 fewer appointments at an average of $90 per appointment)
Working with a general health and wellness coach reduced the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR) scores for study participants by 35%. In comparison, the three FDA-approved fibromyalgia medications were less effective than coaching, even when used together. (Lyrica 17.2%, Cymbalta 20.4%, Savella 32.8%, Lyrica + Cymbalta 34.1%) Even acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) only brought about a 27.4% improvement.
A Certified Fibromyalgia Coach® provides even better results.
A Certified Fibromyalgia Coach® is trained in fibromyalgia treatment and management and has direct personal experience with fibromyalgia. We understand what you are going through every day and can give you guidance from our own experience. While the participants in this study met with Certified Health and Wellness coaches, they did NOT meet with a Certified Fibromyalgia Coach®. When working with an IFCI-trained coach, this critical difference will help you achieve even more impressive results.
When working with a Certified Fibromyalgia Coach® through our Certified Fibromyalgia Advisor® program our students average a 50% improvement in their FIQR scores after just three months. Several graduates improved by 70% or more! But don't just take our word for it. Our graduates share their experiences in our Stories of Hope and Healing graduation events. Watch the replays here.
For more studies and statistics, download a copy of our Founder’s book, Take Back Your Life: Find Hope and Freedom from Fibromyalgia Symptoms and Pain. In her chapter titled, “Would Working with a Coach Be Helpful?”, Tami outlines the results you can expect from working with a Certified Fibromyalgia Coach®.
Have additional questions? Contact a Student Advisor.
Ready to schedule your consultation? Find a Certified Fibromyalgia Coach®.
References
- "The Science Behind Coaching as a Treatment Option for Fibromyalgia with Dr. James Fricton." Fibromyalgia Podcast. Apr 30 2019.
- "What Is Fibromyalgia Coaching?" Fibromyalgia Podcast. May 7 2019.
- "Can a Coach Help ME? Ask the Coach." Fibromyalgia Podcast. Jan 17 2023.
- Hackshaw, Kevin V., et al. “A pilot study of health and wellness coaching for fibromyalgia.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders 17.1 (2016): 457.
- Okea, Remigius. “Milnacipran (Savella) for Fibromyalgia.” American Family Physician 82.8 (2010): 901-904.
