Fibromyalgia Integrative Training for Teens (FIT Teens): Development of a Novel Non-Pharmacologic Treatment for Juvenile Fibromyalgia

Juvenile fibromyalgia is a chronic condition in adolescents characterized by widespread pain, fatigue and mood issues. Current pharmacologic treatment offers short-term symptom relief, but there is promising evidence that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and physical exercise may reduce pain. Fibromyalgia Integrative Training for Teens (FIT Teens), a non-pharmacologic approach, incorporates specialized neuromuscular training and CBT techniques such as relaxation, imagery, positive thinking and pacing to guide adolescents to understand their triggers and cope with pain. The program aims to reduce disability, pain and fear of movement while improving pain management skills and exercise engagement.

In her lecture, Susmita Kashikar-Zuck, Ph.D. will discuss the development of FIT Teens and its potential to help patients achieve better control of their pain.

About the Speaker

Dr. Kashikar-Zuck is a clinical psychologist and leading researcher in behavioral pain management for children. She is also the Endowed Chair and Research Director of the Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.

Dr. Kashikar-Zuck is a member of the National Advisory Council for Complementary and Integrative Health (NACCIH), which is responsible for advising, consulting with, and making recommendations to the director of NCCIH on matters relating to the research activities and functions of the Center.