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Persistent Physical Symptoms (PPS) are symptoms without a known biological cause. They are common and associated with psychological distress, work disability and unemployment. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of PPS and their association with clinical levels of general anxiety, depression, social anxiety, health anxiety or post traumatic symptoms in a work rehabilitation setting and to identify individuals within that setting that might benefit from psychological treatment for PPS. A sample of 324 individuals seeking work rehabilitation filled out questionnaires measuring PPS and mental health problems. To estimate how many service seekers might benefit from psychological treatment for PPS we identified participants who reported both PPS and psychological distress, defined as an elevated score on measures of general anxiety, depression or health anxiety. Eighty point nine percent of participants reported having one or more PPS and 61.7% reported having two or more. Those with PPS were more likely to report clinical levels of depression, anxiety and health anxiety than those without and the number of PPS was positively correlated with symptoms of depression, anxiety and health anxiety. Almost 65% of the participants were identified as having PPS, being psychologically distressed and willing to accept psychological treatment. There is a clear need for specialized treatment for PPS within vocational rehabilitation in Iceland as service seekers commonly have PPS, are psychologically distressed and are willing to accept psychological treatment. Such treatment should preferably be transdiagnostic as the prevalence of multiple PPS is high in this sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial titled "Reconsidering Persistent Somatic Symptoms: A Transdiagnostic and Transsymptomatic Approach" explores the complexity of persistent somatic symptoms, emphasizing the need for a biopsychosocial model to understand and address these symptoms effectively. The authors highlight the commonalities and differences in symptom perception across various conditions, advocating for a transdiagnostic and transsymptomatic approach to research and treatment. The editorial discusses ongoing research projects, such as SOMACROSS, aimed at identifying risk factors and mechanisms for symptom persistence in different medical conditions. The ultimate goal is to develop evidence-based interventions for patients suffering from persistent somatic symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and MethodsResultsConclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONPeople with Persistent Physical Symptoms experience physical symptoms that are not wholly explained by a medical disorder or disease. Multidisciplinary treatment is recommended for people with severe difficulties and is provided in a small number of specialist centres in the UK. Only brief descriptions of this treatment are available, and the experiences of people receiving this treatment as an inpatient have not been explored. This study aimed to explore how people with persistent physical symptoms experience inpatient treatment from a specialist multidisciplinary team, and to identify which factors facilitated their engagement in the rehabilitation.18 people who had received inpatient multidisciplinary treatment for persistent physical symptoms participated in semi-structured interviews. The transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.Participants’ experiences were influenced by whether they felt believed by the healthcare team, and whether they could place their own trust and belief in the staff team and the treatment approach. Their experiences involved a series of transitions; both in environment and understanding.Improvements are possible for people receiving inpatient multidisciplinary treatment for severe PPS. Trusting relationships between patients and staff members take time to develop but play a major role in patients’ experiences of treatment.People with persistent physical symptoms view the building of trusting relationships with rehabilitation professionals as a vital component of specialist treatmentPatients value the interpersonal style of the professional as much as the content of the intervention delivered.Developing an alliance and a shared understanding of symptoms takes time, high levels of tailoring, and a skilled multidisciplinary teamPatients found abrupt discharge difficult, and desire easier access to appropriate follow upPeople with persistent physical symptoms view the building of trusting relationships with rehabilitation professionals as a vital component of specialist treatmentPatients value the interpersonal style of the professional as much as the content of the intervention delivered.Developing an alliance and a shared understanding of symptoms takes time, high levels of tailoring, and a skilled multidisciplinary teamPatients found abrupt discharge difficult, and desire easier access to appropriate follow up [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Persistent Physical Symptoms (PPS) include symptoms such as chronic pain, and syndromes such as chronic fatigue. They are common, but are often inadequately managed, causing distress and higher costs for health care systems. A lack of teaching about PPS has been recognised as a contributing factor to poor management. Methods The authors conducted a scoping review of the literature, including all studies published before 31 March 2023. Systematic methods were used to determine what teaching on PPS was taking place for medical undergraduates. Studies were restricted to publications in English and needed to include undergraduate medical students. Teaching about cancer pain was excluded. After descriptive data was extracted, a narrative synthesis was undertaken to analyse qualitative findings. Results A total of 1116 studies were found, after exclusion, from 3 databases. A further 28 studies were found by searching the grey literature and by citation analysis. After screening for relevance, a total of 57 studies were included in the review. The most commonly taught condition was chronic non-cancer pain, but overall, there was a widespread lack of teaching and learning on PPS. Several factors contributed to this lack including: educators and learners viewing the topic as awkward, learners feeling that there was no science behind the symptoms, and the topic being overlooked in the taught curriculum. The gap between the taught curriculum and learners’ experiences in practice was addressed through informal sources and this risked stigmatising attitudes towards sufferers of PPS. Conclusion Faculties need to find ways to integrate more teaching on PPS and address the barriers outlined above. Teaching on chronic non-cancer pain, which is built on a science of symptoms, can be used as an exemplar for teaching on PPS more widely. Any future teaching interventions should be robustly evaluated to ensure improvements for learners and patients.

Abstract Background The complexity and uncertainty around Persistent Physical Symptoms (PPS) make it difficult to diagnose and treat, particularly under time-constrained consultations and limited knowledge. Brief interventions that can be utilised in day-to-day practice are necessary to improve ways of managing PPS. This review aimed to establish (i) what training primary and secondary healthcare practitioners have undertaken to develop their clinical skills when working with PPS, (ii) what training techniques or theoretical models have been used within these interventions, and (iii) how effective was the training. Method A systematic literature search was undertaken on eight databases to identify professional development interventions for healthcare practitioners working with PPS, were of any study design, and at a minimum were single measure studies (i.e., training outcome alone). Studies were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and narratively synthesised. Results Despite high methodological heterogeneity across the six included studies, they all aimed to improve healthcare practitioners’ communication skills through educational (theory, awareness, attitudes, assessment, treatment, and management of PPS) and experiential (role play) learning. Conclusions The review findings demonstrate that developing healthcare practitioners’ communicative behaviours led to increased confidence and self-efficacy when working with PPS, which facilitated improved consultations and improvements on some patient outcomes. Barriers to the uptake of training programmes and implementation into daily clinical practice are discussed, including the need for PPS to be formally implemented into undergraduate teaching and post-qualification continuous professional development. Trial registration This review was registered at PROSPERO [CRD42022315631] prior to the review starting.

Introduction: Biographical disruption describes the process by which illness impacts not just on a person's body and their participation in activities, but also on their sense of self. Biographical disruption is often followed by a process of biographical repair in which identity is reconstructed and a new normality is restored. People with persistent physical symptoms (sometimes referred to as medically unexplained symptoms) experience biographical disruption. This can be complicated by lack of explanation and the implication that if the problem is not medical, then it might be the person/psychological. We aimed to examine this tension in people attending a novel “Symptoms Clinic” for people with persistent physical symptoms. Methods: This study reports an embedded qualitative study in a UK based randomised controlled trial. Data were collected by audio recordings of consultations and semi-structured interviews with patients. We used theoretically informed thematic analysis with regular coding and discussion meetings of the analysis team. This analysis explores the role of intervention components in facilitating biographical repair. Results: The lack of acceptable explanation for persistent symptoms acted as a block to biographical repair. In the clinic, multi-layered explanations were offered and negotiated that viewed persistent symptoms as understandable entities rather than as indicators of something still hidden. These explanations allowed study participants to make sense of their symptoms and in turn opened new opportunities for self-management. The result was that participants were able to reframe their symptoms in a way that enabled them to see themselves differently. Even if symptoms had not yet improved, there was a sense of being better. This can be understood as a process of biographical repair. Conclusion: Explaining persistent physical symptoms enables biographical repair.

Abstract Background An increasing number of young people in Western countries report persistent physical symptoms (PPS). PPS may disturb everyday activities and they may have negative consequences for later adult mental and physical health. Still little is known about how young people handle PPS in their everyday lives. This study examines how young people with PPS attempt to manage their symptoms while staying engaged in their daily activities and what is at stake in these attempts. Methods This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with 11 young people with PPS. Photo-elicitation was used to capture the participants’ experiences as they occurred in their everyday lives. The data material was analysed using a thematic analysis approach, as well as theory on subjectivity and social acceleration. Results The participants employed alleviating measures and tried to find patterns between their activities and the severity of their symptoms in order to adjust their activity level. Decisions not to participate in social activities were accompanied by feelings of missing out. The participants’ attempts at adjusting their activity level was challenged by norms of being social and active, and they experienced difficulty prioritizing their activities and explaining their symptoms to others. Conclusion PPS shaped the participants’ sense of how to act towards their bodies and social relationships in interaction with societal norms. The participants’ subject formation and symptom experiences should thus be seen as a biosocial process.

Background: The condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is poorly understood. Simplified medical models tend to neglect the complexity of illness, contributing to a terrain of uncertainty, dilemmas and predicaments. However, despite pessimistic pictures of no cure and poor prognosis, some patients recover. Purpose: This study's purpose is to provide insight into people's experiences of suffering and recovery from very severe CFS/ME and illuminate understanding of how and why changes became possible. Methods: Fourteen former patients were interviewed about their experiences of returning to health. A narrative analysis was undertaken to explore participants' experiences and understandings. We present the result through one participant's story. Results: The analysis yielded a common plotline with a distinct turning point. Participants went through a profound narrative shift, change in mindset and subsequent long-time work to actively pursue their own healing. Their narrative understandings of being helpless victims of disease were replaced by a more complex view of causality and illness and a new sense of self-agency developed. Discussion: We discuss the illness narratives in relation to the disease model and its shortcomings, the different voices dominating the stories at different times in a clinically, conceptually, and emotionally challenging area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An increasing number of young people in Western countries report persistent physical symptoms (PPS). PPS may disturb everyday activities and they may have negative consequences for later adult mental and physical health. Still little is known about how young people handle PPS in their everyday lives. This study examines how young people with PPS attempt to manage their symptoms while staying engaged in their daily activities and what is at stake in these attempts. Methods: This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with 11 young people with PPS. Photo-elicitation was used to capture the participants' experiences as they occurred in their everyday lives. The data material was analysed using a thematic analysis approach, as well as theory on subjectivity and social acceleration. Results: The participants employed alleviating measures and tried to find patterns between their activities and the severity of their symptoms in order to adjust their activity level. Decisions not to participate in social activities were accompanied by feelings of missing out. The participants' attempts at adjusting their activity level was challenged by norms of being social and active, and they experienced difficulty prioritizing their activities and explaining their symptoms to others. Conclusion: PPS shaped the participants' sense of how to act towards their bodies and social relationships in interaction with societal norms. The participants' subject formation and symptom experiences should thus be seen as a biosocial process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is poorly understood. Simplified medical models tend to neglect the complexity of illness, contributing to a terrain of uncertainty, dilemmas and predicaments. However, despite pessimistic pictures of no cure and poor prognosis, some patients recover. Purpose This study’s purpose is to provide insight into people’s experiences of suffering and recovery from very severe CFS/ME and illuminate understanding of how and why changes became possible. Methods Fourteen former patients were interviewed about their experiences of returning to health. A narrative analysis was undertaken to explore participants’ experiences and understandings. We present the result through one participant’s story. Results The analysis yielded a common plotline with a distinct turning point. Participants went through a profound narrative shift, change in mindset and subsequent long-time work to actively pursue their own healing. Their narrative understandings of being helpless victims of disease were replaced by a more complex view of causality and illness and a new sense of self-agency developed. Discussion We discuss the illness narratives in relation to the disease model and its shortcomings, the different voices dominating the stories at different times in a clinically, conceptually, and emotionally challenging area.

Abstract Objective: Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS), such as chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and Gulf War Illness (GWI), are difficult to treat. Concordance—shared understanding between patient and provider about illness causes, course, and treatment—is an essential component of high-quality care for people with MUS. This qualitative paper focuses on the experiences of United States military Veterans living with GWI who have endured unique healthcare challenges. Methods & Measures: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 31 Veterans with GWI to explore factors that contribute to and detract from concordance with their Veteran Affairs (VA) healthcare providers. In addition to being seen by VA primary care, over half of participants also sought care at a War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, which specializes in post-deployment health. Deductive and inductive codes were used to organize the data, and themes were identified through iterative review of coded data. Results: Major themes associated with patient-provider concordance included validation of illness experiences, perceived provider expertise in GWI/MUS, and trust in providers. Invalidation, low provider expertise, and distrust detracted from concordance. Conclusion: These findings suggest providers can foster concordance with MUS patients by legitimizing patients’ experiences, communicating knowledge about MUS, and establishing trust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Many strategies are used by trialists to improve recruitment, but few have been tested. We aimed to evaluate two interventions: 1) a study branded pen and 2) brief participant information leaflet, included within invitation packs for the Multiple Symptoms Study 3 (MSS3) trial. Methods A 2x2 factorial ‘study within a trial’ (SWAT) embedded into MSS3 – a randomised trial of a community-based clinic for patients with persistent, medically unexplained, physical symptoms. Potential MSS3 participants received postal invitations sent via GP practices, along with a MSS3 branded pen and/or brief participant information leaflet (PIL) or neither. The primary outcome was randomisation rate. Secondary outcomes were return rate, time to return, reasons for non-randomised returns and cost-effectiveness. Results 108 GP practices posted 6946 invitations, from which 318 participants (4.6%) were randomised to the host trial. Between those sent a brief PIL (n=3467) and not sent a brief PIL (n=3479) there was no significant difference in randomisation rates (166 (4.8%) vs 152 (4.4%); OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.88-1.38). Response rates were significantly higher in those sent the brief PIL (573 (16.5%) vs 513 (14.7%); OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.01-1.30). Between those sent the pen (n=3464) and not sent the pen (n=3482) there was no evidence of increased randomisation (145 (4.2%) vs 173 (5.0%); OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.67-1.05) and the difference in response rates was not statistically significant (563 (16.3%) vs 523 (15.0%); OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.96-1.25). For both SWAT interventions, time to response was comparable between groups. Conclusion There was no significant evidence of effectiveness of the brief PIL intervention or the pen intervention on recruitment to the host study. There was evidence of increased response rates to the initial invitation in the brief PIL group, compared to those not receiving a brief PIL in their invitation pack.

Introduction: Persistent physical symptoms (PPS) refer to symptoms that cannot be fully explained by structural bodily pathology or by environmental factors. Their impact on daily functioning varies from mild to severe disability. So far, evidence-based treatments for PPS have resulted in only small to moderate effects. Treatment protocols with a stronger orientation toward personalized approaches are needed to improve the efficacy and applicability of treatment. In this study, we aim to assess the effect of an online individual case conceptualization with web-based program for PPS. This study is conducted among two focus groups: patients with indoor air-related symptoms and patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Methods and analyses: Using a randomized controlled design (RCT) with two parallel groups in a 1:1 ratio, we will compare individual video-based case conceptualization with a web-based program based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), combined with treatment as usual, with treatment as usual only. The web-based program consists of ten modules, each lasting 1 week and including training. The planned sample size is 124 eligible patients without attrition. The primary outcome will be the health-related quality of life as measured by the 15D questionnaire. The secondary outcome measures will include questionnaires on psychiatric and physical symptoms, illness perceptions, psychological flexibility, and work ability. We will also use. national registers to obtain information on the use of healthcare and social benefits to complete patient-reported outcomes. Data collection began in August 2020 and will continue until 2023. Discussion: This trial will provide information on the effects and usefulness of an online administrated individual case conceptualization and an ACT-based web-program on PPS. Ethics and dissemination: The Ethics Committee of the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa, Finland, has granted approval for the study. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Clinical Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04532827 preresults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Bodily distress, i.e., somatoform disorders and associated functional somatic syndromes, is highly prevalent, often persistent and highly disabling. It has been proposed that "third wave" therapies may be beneficial variants of cognitive behavioral treatments. However, evidence on their efficacy is scarce. This meta-analysis examines the efficacy of "third wave" psychotherapies (mindfulness-based cognitive therapy [MBCT], mindfulness-based stress reduction [MBSR], and acceptance and commitment therapy [ACT]) in adults with bodily distress. Method: We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) treating adults with bodily distress using MBCT, MBSR, and ACT compared to inactive and non-specific control groups. A random effects model was used. The primary outcome was somatic symptom severity. Secondary outcomes were degrees of depression and of anxiety, health anxiety, perceived health status, mindfulness, psychological inflexibility, and pain acceptance. Results: Sixteen RCTs with 1,288 participants were included in the analysis (k = 4 MBCT, k = 7 MBSR, k = 5 ACT; k = 7 fibromyalgia, k = 5 irritable bowel syndrome, k = 1 chronic fatigue syndrome, k = 2 bodily distress, k = 1 medically unexplained symptoms). However, not all studies provided data for each of the relevant outcomes. The analyses revealed that "third wave" therapies were more effective than control conditions in reducing somatic symptom severity (k = 15, n = 1,100, g = -0.51, 95%CI -0.69; -0.32). Heterogeneity wasmoderate (I² = 52.8%, 95%CI 15.1 to 73.8). Effects for secondary outcomes were small to moderate with varying degrees of heterogeneity. We did not find differences between the different therapy approaches (mindfulness-vs. acceptance-based therapies); neither therapy dosis (i.e., total duration of therapy sessions) nor number of sessions were significant moderators of efficacy. Conclusions: The therapies addressing mindfulness and acceptance proved to be more effective than control conditions. Hence, they are promising treatment approaches for bodily distress. However, there is still need for research on which patient groups may benefit from these psychological approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveBodily distress, i.e., somatoform disorders and associated functional somatic syndromes, is highly prevalent, often persistent and highly disabling. It has been proposed that “third wave” therapies may be beneficial variants of cognitive behavioral treatments. However, evidence on their efficacy is scarce. This meta-analysis examines the efficacy of “third wave” psychotherapies (mindfulness-based cognitive therapy [MBCT], mindfulness-based stress reduction [MBSR], and acceptance and commitment therapy [ACT]) in adults with bodily distress.MethodWe included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) treating adults with bodily distress using MBCT, MBSR, and ACT compared to inactive and non-specific control groups. A random effects model was used. The primary outcome was somatic symptom severity. Secondary outcomes were degrees of depression and of anxiety, health anxiety, perceived health status, mindfulness, psychological inflexibility, and pain acceptance.ResultsSixteen RCTs with 1,288 participants were included in the analysis (k = 4 MBCT, k = 7 MBSR, k = 5 ACT; k = 7 fibromyalgia, k = 5 irritable bowel syndrome, k = 1 chronic fatigue syndrome, k = 2 bodily distress, k = 1 medically unexplained symptoms). However, not all studies provided data for each of the relevant outcomes. The analyses revealed that “third wave“ therapies were more effective than control conditions in reducing somatic symptom severity (k = 15, n = 1,100, g = −0.51, 95%CI −0.69; −0.32). Heterogeneity was moderate (I2 = 52.8%, 95%CI 15.1 to 73.8). Effects for secondary outcomes were small to moderate with varying degrees of heterogeneity. We did not find differences between the different therapy approaches (mindfulness- vs. acceptance-based therapies); neither therapy dosis (i.e., total duration of therapy sessions) nor number of sessions were significant moderators of efficacy.ConclusionsThe therapies addressing mindfulness and acceptance proved to be more effective than control conditions. Hence, they are promising treatment approaches for bodily distress. However, there is still need for research on which patient groups may benefit from these psychological approaches.Systematic review registrationhttps://osf.io/g7hby, identifier: 10.17605/OSF.IO/4RZGC.

Objectives: Presentation of persistent physical symptoms is associated with increased health care utilization, yet clinical outcomes often remain suboptimal. This systematic review aimed to determine whether psychological interventions are effective for the management of PPS and if so, what are the features of the interventions and at what level of care are they delivered. The review also set out to establish which symptoms in those diagnosed with PPS can be effectively managed with psychological intervention. Methods: Studies were included if they clearly reported a psychological intervention, specified the study sample as adults with a diagnosis of persistent physical symptoms, included a comparator and as a minimum an outcome measure of somatic symptoms. Risk of bias was assessed using the EPHPP. Meta‐analysis was conducted to estimate the overall effect of interventions on somatic symptoms (the primary outcome), anxiety and depression (secondary outcomes). Results: Seventeen papers of varying quality indicated that psychological interventions can be effective for the management of somatic symptoms reported by individuals with PPS within a primary care setting. Psychological interventions were also found to be effective at reducing depression symptoms in individuals with PPS in twelve of the included studies. However, the meta‐analysis results suggest that the psychological interventions utilized within eleven of the included studies did not significantly impact anxiety symptoms. Conclusions: Psychological interventions have some success in managing somatic symptoms in PPS patients within primary care settings although their effects on other psychological symptoms is more mixed. The review highlights the importance of establishing a clearer diagnostic classification to inform treatment trajectories and the need for appropriate training and support within a multi‐disciplinary team to enable the provision of such therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We examined whether the difficulties of patients with somatoform disorders (SFDs) in integrating medical reassurance can be altered by preventing patients from devaluing reassuring information through defensive cognitive strategies. Method: Patients with SFD (n = 60), patients with major depression (n = 32), and healthy volunteers (n = 37) watched a videotaped doctor's report, which provided medical reassurance for gastroenterological complaints. Subsequently, participants were asked about their perception of the report. In the SFD sample, patients' appraisal of the reassuring was experimentally modulated: In one condition, doubts about the validity of the doctor's diagnostic assessment were triggered; in another condition, the devaluation of medical reassurance was blocked through underscoring the validity of the doctor's diagnostic assessment; and a control condition received no manipulation. Results: As evident on all outcome variables, patients with SFD had more difficulty integrating medical reassurance than depressed and healthy people. Within the SFD sample, participants from the experimental condition blocking the devaluation of medical reassurance rated the likelihood of an undetected serious disease to be significantly lower than the other two conditions. They also reported less emotional concern and a lower desire to seek the opinion of another doctor. Conclusions: By comparing patients with SFD to both a healthy and a clinical control group, the current study suggests that the difficulty in processing reassuring medical information is a specific psychopathological feature of SFD. Furthermore, our results suggest that the integration of medical reassurance can be improved by preventing patients from devaluing reassuring information through dismissive cognitive strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medically unexplained symptoms otherwise referred to as persistent physical symptoms (PPS) are debilitating to patients. As many specific PPS syndromes share common behavioural, cognitive, and affective influences, transdiagnostic treatments might be effective for this patient group. We evaluated the clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a therapist-delivered, transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural intervention (TDT-CBT) plus (+) standard medical care (SMC) v. SMC alone for the treatment of patients with PPS in secondary medical care. Methods: A two-arm randomised controlled trial, with measurements taken at baseline and at 9, 20, 40- and 52-weeks post randomisation. The primary outcome measure was the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS) at 52 weeks. Secondary outcomes included mood (PHQ-9 and GAD-7), symptom severity (PHQ-15), global measure of change (CGI), and the Persistent Physical Symptoms Questionnaire (PPSQ). Results: We randomised 324 patients and 74% were followed up at 52 weeks. The difference between groups was not statistically significant for the primary outcome (WSAS at 52 weeks: estimated difference −1.48 points, 95% confidence interval from −3.44 to 0.48, p = 0.139). However, the results indicated that some secondary outcomes had a treatment effect in favour of TDT-CBT + SMC with three outcomes showing a statistically significant difference between groups. These were WSAS at 20 weeks (p = 0.016) at the end of treatment and the PHQ-15 (p = 0.013) and CGI at 52 weeks (p = 0.011). Conclusion: We have preliminary evidence that TDT-CBT + SMC may be helpful for people with a range of PPS. However, further study is required to maximise or maintain effects seen at end of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the cost-utility of transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural therapy (TDT-CBT) plus standardised medical care (SMC) to SMC alone to support people with persistent physical symptoms in contact with specialist services. This study compared the cost-utility of TDT-CBT. A two-arm randomised controlled trial was conducted in secondary care settings. Participants received either TDT-CBT + SMC or SMC alone. Measures were taken at baseline and at 9-, 20-, 40-, and 52-week follow-up. Service use was measured, and costs calculated. Costs were combined with quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) based on the EQ-5D-5L using incremental cost-utility ratios with uncertainty addressed using cost-effectiveness planes and acceptability curves. The costs during the follow-up period were £3473 for TDT-CBT + SMC and £3104 for SMC alone. The incremental cost for TDT-CBT + SMC adjusting for baseline was £482 (95 % CI, −£399 to £1233). QALYs over the follow-up were 0.578 for TDT-CBT + SMC and 0.542 for SMC alone. The incremental QALY was 0.038 (95 % CI, −0.005 to 0.080). The incremental cost per QALY was £12,684 for TDT-CBT + SMC. There was a 68.3 % likelihood that TDT-CBT + SMC was the most cost-effective option at a threshold of £20,000 per QALY. Adding TDT-CTB to SMC results in slightly increased costs and slightly better outcomes in terms of QALYs. This represents a cost-effective option based on the conventional QALY threshold value. • CBT for people with persistent physical symptoms increased healthcare costs. • Health-related quality of life and QALYs were greater with CBT. • CBT appears to be a cost-effective treatment option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiencing physical symptoms that are medically not yet explained (MNYES) is associated with considerable burden in daily life. Research priorities in this area have been primarily investigator-driven. The present study identifies the top 10 research priorities, incorporating the views of patients, carers and healthcare professionals. This study used the Priority Setting Partnership approach in collaboration with the James Lind Alliance (JLA). The priority setting approach combines survey-based data from patients with a specific disorder/condition and relevant stakeholders (i.e., caregivers and healthcare professionals) with input from group meetings and a final priority setting consensus meeting. There were three consecutive phases: (1) online survey with an open-ended question to collect topics for future scientific research (N = 345 participants); (2) an online survey among stakeholders to prioritise the research questions generated in Phase 1 (N = 400); and (3) a final multi-stakeholder consensus meeting, held over two half-days to determine the final top 10 research priorities for the Netherlands (day 1 N = 25, day 2 N = 24). Phase 1 resulted in 572 topics, which were reduced to 37 summary research questions. Phase 2 resulted in 18 research priorities, that were ranked and the top 10 priorities were established during the final consensus meeting. The top 10 research priorities included three main themes: optimising efficient diagnosis and treatment, aetiology and prevention, and coping with MNYES. The top 10 priorities provide insight into what is most important for future research into MNYES from the perspective of patients, carers and healthcare professionals. • Professionals/patient representatives identified top research priorities for MNYES. • 572 topics for research were narrowed down to 37 research questions in Phase 1. • These 37 research questions were prioritized in Phase 2: resulting in 18 questions. • A top 10 of research priorities for MNYES was formed in a final workshop meeting. • Top priorities: optimising diagnosis/treatment, aetiology/prevention and coping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionPersistent physical symptoms (PPS) refer to symptoms that cannot be fully explained by structural bodily pathology or by environmental factors. Their impact on daily functioning varies from mild to severe disability. So far, evidence-based treatments for PPS have resulted in only small to moderate effects. Treatment protocols with a stronger orientation toward personalized approaches are needed to improve the efficacy and applicability of treatment. In this study, we aim to assess the effect of an online individual case conceptualization with web-based program for PPS. This study is conducted among two focus groups: patients with indoor air-related symptoms and patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.Methods and analysesUsing a randomized controlled design (RCT) with two parallel groups in a 1:1 ratio, we will compare individual video-based case conceptualization with a web-based program based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), combined with treatment as usual, with treatment as usual only. The web-based program consists of ten modules, each lasting 1 week and including training. The planned sample size is 124 eligible patients without attrition. The primary outcome will be the health-related quality of life as measured by the 15D questionnaire. The secondary outcome measures will include questionnaires on psychiatric and physical symptoms, illness perceptions, psychological flexibility, and work ability. We will also use national registers to obtain information on the use of healthcare and social benefits to complete patient-reported outcomes. Data collection began in August 2020 and will continue until 2023.DiscussionThis trial will provide information on the effects and usefulness of an online administrated individual case conceptualization and an ACT-based web-program on PPS.Ethics and disseminationThe Ethics Committee of the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa, Finland, has granted approval for the study. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals.Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04532827 preresults.

Introduction : It has been hypothesized that certain persistent physical symptoms (PPS) may be linked to unresolved traumatic or distressing somatic-symptom related memories. EMDR intervention targets and reintegrates distressing memories, thus reducing the re-experiencing of physical sensations. The primary aim of this review was to examine effectiveness of EMDR for PPS. Secondary aims were to investigate effectiveness of EMDR on secondary outcomes (post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression), and to evaluate the acceptability of EMDR for this client group. Method : Six electronic databases (PsycInfo, PsycArticles, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Web of Science and SCOPUS) were searched for peer-reviewed literature, with no restrictions on publication dates. Twenty-eight studies met inclusion criteria. Studies were included if the primary aim of EMDR intervention was to reduce intensity, frequency or reported distress associated with PPS. Studies were quality appraised using the MMAT tool prior to narrative synthesis of key findings. Results : Studies varied in design and included RCT, UCT, case study and case series. EMDR treatment length varied between studies; 1–20 sessions. All studies reported significant improvement in PPS at post-test. Effect sizes were available to report in five studies and ranged from moderate to large. Improvement in secondary outcomes were reported in all repeated measure studies. Where available, large effect sizes were reported for reduction in anxiety and depression. Overall drop-out rates in studies with representative samples was low (10.6%). Quality of research varied; low (42.8%), medium (21.4%), and high (35.7%). Conclusions : There is promising emerging evidence for effectiveness and acceptability of EMDR for a range of PPS. However, firm conclusions on efficacy cannot be made. While comparisons between PPS presentations cannot be drawn due to methodological differences, the findings for pain and tinnitus are the most compelling due to methodological quality. High-quality sufficiently powered RCTs are recommended to determine efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an extended-role general practitioner symptoms clinic (SC), added to usual care (UC) for patients with multiple persistent physical symptoms (sometimes known as medically unexplained symptoms)., Methods: This was a 52-week within-trial cost-utility analysis of a pragmatic multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing SC + UC (n = 178) with UC alone (n = 176), conducted from the primary perspective of the UK National Health Service and personal and social services (PSS). Base-case quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were measured using EQ-5D-5L. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. Cost-effectiveness results were presented as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios and incremental net monetary benefits. Uncertainty was explored using cost-effectiveness acceptability curves (using 1000 nonparametric bootstrapped samples) and sensitivity analysis (including societal costs, using SF-6D and ICECAP-A capability measure for adults outcomes to estimate QALYs and years of full capability, respectively, varying intervention costs, missing data mechanism assumptions)., Results: Multiple imputation analysis showed that compared with UC alone, SC + UC was more expensive (adjusted mean cost difference: 704; 95% CI £605-£807) and more effective (adjusted mean QALY difference: 0.0447; 95% CI 0.0067-0.0826), yielding an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of £15 765/QALY, incremental net monetary benefit of £189.22 (95% CI -£573.62 to £948.28) and a 69% probability of the SC + UC intervention arm being cost-effective at a threshold of £20 000 per QALY. Results were robust to most sensitivity analyses but sensitive to missing data assumptions (2 of the 8 scenarios investigated), SF-6D, and ICECAP_A capability measure for adults quality-of-life outcomes., Conclusions: A symptoms clinic is likely to be a potentially cost-effective treatment for patients with persistent physical symptoms., Competing Interests: Author Disclosures Author disclosure forms can be accessed below in the Supplemental Material section., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Abstract Introduction Central sensitization (CS) may explain the persistence of symptoms in patients with chronic pain and persistent physical symptoms (PPS). There is a need for assessing CS in the consultation room. In a recently published systematic review, we made an inventory of tests for CS. In this study we aimed to assess which tests might have added value, might be feasible and thus be suitable for use in general practice. Methods We conducted a Delphi study consisting of two e-mail rounds to reach consensus among experts in chronic pain and PPS. We invited 40 national and international experts on chronic pain and PPS, 27 agreed to participate. We selected 12 tests from our systematic review and additional searches; panellists added three more tests in the first round. We asked the panellists, both clinicians and researchers, to rate these 15 tests on technical feasibility for use in general practice, added value and to provide an overall judgement for suitability in general practice. Results In two rounds the panellists reached consensus on 14 of the 15 tests: three were included, eleven excluded. Included were the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) and monofilaments. No consensus was reached on the Sensory Hypersensitivity Scale. Conclusion In a Delphi study among an international panel of experts, three tests for measuring CS were considered to be suitable for use in general practice: the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) and monofilaments.

Persistent physical symptoms (PPS) represent a major health problem affecting daily functioning. This RCT aimed to examine whether a guided Internet-based treatment based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) provided additional benefits compared to Treatment as Usual (TAU) in reducing somatic complaints and psychological distress in adults with PPS. A total of 103 adults with PPS related to indoor environments, chronic fatigue or both conditions were assigned to receive either either a 14-week intervention (video-based case conceptualization + Internet-based ACT) combined with TAU (iACT + TAU; n = 50) or TAU alone (n = 53). Somatic symptoms, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and psychological flexibility were assessed from pre-intervention to a 3-month follow-up. Additionally, the association between changes in psychological flexibility from pre- to post-intervention and changes in symptoms from pre to 3-month follow-up was explored. Analyses were conducted using a multigroup method with full information maximum likelihood estimator. The results revealed a significant interaction effect, indicating reductions in somatic symptoms and symptoms of depression and anxiety with moderate to large between-group effects (d = 0.71–1.09). No significant interaction effect was observed in insomnia and measures of psychological flexibility. Internet-based ACT, when combined with Treatment as Usual, demonstrated efficacy for individuals with PPS associated with indoor environments and chronic fatigue. These findings are pertinent for primary healthcare providers, suggesting that the current treatment model could serve as a low-threshold first-line treatment option. The clinical trial registration number: NCT04532827 • This RCT (n = 103) examined whether online ACT + TAU was superior to TAU for PPS. • Adults with PPS related to indoor environment, chronic fatigue or both were examined. • The iACT+TAU group improved more in somatic, depressive and anxiety symptoms. • Between-group effects were moderate to large (d = 0.71–1.09) at follow-up. • iACT combined with TAU could be effective for treating these PPS conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stigma is a social attribute that links a person to an undesirable characteristic and leads to actions that increase the social distance from that person. This includes different or discriminatory treatment. Stigma is common in healthcare, particularly in people with persistent physical symptoms (PPS) and functional disorders (FD). The aim of this study is to create a new actionable framework to aid understanding of stigmatisation in consultations about PPS/FD and to improve the consultation experiences. This framework development used the Best Fit Framework approach to data collected for a scoping review of stigma in functional disorders. The stages included selection of an initial framework from existing conceptual models, mapping quote data from published papers to the framework and an iterative process of revision and re-mapping. The final framework was tested by re-mapping all the quote data to the framework following classification rules. 253 quotes were obtained from the results sections of qualitative studies from a previous scoping review. The framework comprises of prejudice, stereotypes and actions to increase social distance. Stereotype refers to the focus of stigma: this may be the condition, the patient, or their behaviour. Actions that increase social distance include: othering; denial; non-explanation; minimising, norm-breaking; and psychologising. By breaking down stigma into recognisable components, the framework provides a way to understand the difficulties that patients and clinicians face during consultations and a way to develop intervention materials. This new framework for stigma in clinical consultations for PPS/FDs provides a useful tool for the study of stigma in clinical consultations. • In consultations for PPS/FDs, stigmatisation can occur in various ways in the communication process. • Current models do not accurately reflect the patients' experiences of stigmatisation in their consultations for PPS/FDs. • New way to understand and categorise common forms of stigma that patients come to contact in consultations for PPS/FDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent physical symptoms have a high prevalence and a large impact for patients and society. To date, treatment effects for these symptoms are often limited. Nocebo effects (i.e., negative outcomes that are not attributable to active treatment components) have a substantial influence on treatment success and can be established via learning through classical conditioning. Therefore, interventions aimed at reducing nocebo effects by means of counterconditioning, in which an alternative association (inhibiting the previous association) is learned, could be a promising method for improving physical symptoms. In experimental studies, counterconditioning has been shown promising in reducing experimentally-induced nocebo effects on pain and itch. Application of counterconditioning procedures to reduce nocebo effects on clinical symptoms has yet to be researched. This paper provides a protocol of a 6-week counterconditioning intervention aimed at reducing nocebo effects and clinical pain in patients with fibromyalgia. A study in patients with fibromyalgia is proposed to examine the feasibility and potential effectiveness of this counterconditioning intervention as a novel treatment method for reducing nocebo effects and generalization to clinical pain symptoms. Results can help design an optimized treatment protocol for reducing nocebo effects, based on the experiences of participants and the first indications of treatment efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Persistent physical symptoms (PPS) are estimated to be present in 17% of patients in general practice. Hence, general practitioners (GPs) play a key role in both the diagnostic assessment and the management of PPS. However, research indicates a need to improve their strategies to support self-help in patients, and eHealth tools may serve as an opportunity. This study aimed to explore patients’ and GPs’ needs related to self-management of PPS. The study was designed to inform the future development of eHealth interventions in this field. Methods This qualitative study was based on 20 semi-structured interviews (6 GPs and 14 patients with PPS). Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed through a five-step thematic analysis approach. First, we conducted an inductive analysis to identify and explore emerging subthemes. Second, using a deductive mapping strategy, we categorised the derived subthemes according to the COM-B behaviour change model and its three domains: capability, opportunity and motivation. Results We identified eleven subthemes in the patient interviews and seven subthemes in the GP interviews. Several unmet needs emerged. First, we identified a need to consider PPS early in the illness trajectory by taking a bio-psycho-social approach. Second, both patients and GPs need better skills to manage uncertainty. Third, hope is important for the patients. Fourth, patients need guidance from their GP in how to self-manage their PPS. Conclusions This study provides important insight into key issues and needs related to capability, opportunity and motivation that should be addressed in the design of future eHealth self-management interventions targeting patients with PPS in general practice in order to support and improve care.

Persistent physical symptoms have a high prevalence and a large impact for patients and society. To date, treatment effects for these symptoms are often limited. Nocebo effects (i.e., negative outcomes that are not attributable to active treatment components) have a substantial influence on treatment success and can be established via learning through classical conditioning. Therefore, interventions aimed at reducing nocebo effects by means of counterconditioning, in which an alternative association (inhibiting the previous association) is learned, could be a promising method for improving physical symptoms. In experimental studies, counterconditioning has been shown promising in reducing experimentally-induced nocebo effects on pain and itch. Application of counterconditioning procedures to reduce nocebo effects on clinical symptoms has yet to be researched. This paper provides a protocol of a 6-week counterconditioning intervention aimed at reducing nocebo effects and clinical pain in patients with fibromyalgia. A study in patients with fibromyalgia is proposed to examine the feasibility and potential effectiveness of this counterconditioning intervention as a novel treatment method for reducing nocebo effects and generalization to clinical pain symptoms. Results can help design an optimized treatment protocol for reducing nocebo effects, based on the experiences of participants and the first indications of treatment efficacy.

Abstract Background Patients continue to suffer from medically unexplained symptoms otherwise referred to as persistent physical symptoms (PPS). General practitioners (GPs) play a key role in the management of PPS and require further training. Patients are often frustrated with the care they receive. This study aims to assess the acceptability of an ‘integrated GP care’ approach which consists of offering self-help materials to patients with PPS and offering their GPs training on how to utilise cognitive behavioural skills within their consultations, as well as assessing the feasibility of conducting a future trial in primary care to evaluate its benefit. Methods A feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted in primary care, South London, UK. GP practices (clusters) were randomly allocated to ‘integrated GP care plus treatment as usual’ or ‘treatment as usual’. Patients with PPS were recruited from participating GP practices before randomisation. Feasibility parameters, process variables and potential outcome measures were collected at pre-randomisation and at 12- and 24-weeks post-randomisation at cluster and individual participant level. Results Two thousand nine hundred seventy-eight patients were identified from 18 GP practices. Out of the 424 patients who responded with interest in the study, 164 fully met the eligibility criteria. One hundred sixty-one patients provided baseline data before cluster randomisation and therefore were able to participate in the study. Most feasibility parameters indicated that the intervention was acceptable and a future trial feasible. 50 GPs from 8 GP practices (randomised to intervention) attended the offer of training and provided positive feedback. Scores in GP knowledge and confidence increased post-training. Follow-up rate of patients at 24 weeks was 87%. However estimated effect sizes on potential clinical outcomes were small. Conclusions It was feasible to identify and recruit patients with PPS. Retention rates of participants up to 24 weeks were high. A wide range of health services were used. The intervention was relatively low cost and low risk. This complex intervention should be further developed to improve patients’/GPs’ utilisation of audio/visual and training resources before proceeding to a full trial evaluation. Trial registration NCT02444520 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Abstract Background Between 10 and 50% of primary care patients present with persistent physical symptoms (PPS). Patients with PPS tend to utilize excessive or inappropriate health care services, while being stuck in a deleterious cycle of inactivity, deconditioning, and further worsening of symptoms and disability. Since military deployment (relative to non-deployment) is associated with greater likelihood of PPS, we examined the interrelationships of health care utilization, symptom burden and functioning among a sample of recently deployed Veterans with new onset persistent physical symptoms. Methods This study analyzed a cohort of 790 U.S. soldiers who recently returned from deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. Data for this analysis were obtained at pre- and post-deployment. We used moderation analyses to evaluate interactions between physical symptom burden and physical and mental health functioning and four types of health care utilization one-year after deployment, after adjusting for key baseline measures. Results Moderation analyses revealed significant triple interactions between physical symptom burden and health functioning and: primary care (F = 3.63 [2, 303], R2Δ = .02, p = 0.03), specialty care (F = 6.81 [2, 303] R2Δ =0.03, p

Introduction: Central sensitization (CS) may explain the persistence of symptoms in patients with chronic pain and persistent physical symptoms (PPS). There is a need for assessing CS in the consultation room. In a recently published systematic review, we made an inventory of tests for CS. In this study we aimed to assess which tests might have added value, might be feasible and thus be suitable for use in general practice. Methods: We conducted a Delphi study consisting of two e-mail rounds to reach consensus among experts in chronic pain and PPS. We invited 40 national and international experts on chronic pain and PPS, 27 agreed to participate. We selected 12 tests from our systematic review and additional searches; panellists added three more tests in the first round. We asked the panellists, both clinicians and researchers, to rate these 15 tests on technical feasibility for use in general practice, added value and to provide an overall judgement for suitability in general practice. Results: In two rounds the panellists reached consensus on 14 of the 15 tests: three were included, eleven excluded. Included were the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) and monofilaments. No consensus was reached on the Sensory Hypersensitivity Scale. Conclusion: In a Delphi study among an international panel of experts, three tests for measuring CS were considered to be suitable for use in general practice: the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) and monofilaments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Literature reviews revealed no existing research on family narratives of living with multigenerational persistent physical symptom (PPS) conditions. The current study examined the personal and family narratives of one such family, from a relational/systemic perspective. Method: This research employed a qualitative research design, specifically using narrative methodologies to explore the experiences of a single family comprising two parents and their three children. All the children and their mother had a diagnosis of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) but are specifically afflicted with PPS. The father is in good health. Using narrative inquiry, the family members were interviewed together and then individually. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using narrative analysis in NVivo. Findings: Overarching narratives were stories of loss and sacrifice and stories of family unity. An exploration of the family's negotiation of roles and identities is presented in the context of stigmatised illness. Discussion: Novel findings are presented in the context of the central role of the mother, the importance of family cohesion and the impact to family life resulting from living with stigmatised illness. Lastly, clinical implications and future research ideas are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To conduct a scoping review of stigma in medical encounters for persistent physical symptoms and functional disorders (PPS/FD). Stigma is a social attribute that links a person to an undesirable characteristic. It has been extensively studied in relation to mental illness but less so in relation to PPS/FD. We followed PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines for scoping reviews. Searches for were designed using the SPIDER tool. We used descriptive and thematic analysis. The searches identified 68 articles, of which 32 were eligible for inclusion. 31 out of the 32 studies used a qualitative methodology. 8 studies used an explicit definition of stigma, of which 6 used the Goffman (1963) definition. Only 2 studies directly examined clinical consultations, the remainder relied on recalled accounts by patients or professionals. Descriptive analysis identified the focus of the studies included: patient-physician interaction (n = 13); health care professionals' perceptions (n = 7); experiences of illness/stigma (n = 6); broader meaning of illness (n = 3); and patients' experiences of stigma in health care consultations (n = 3). Patients experience stigmatisation in consultations for a wide range of PPS/FD. This suggests the presence of structural stigmatisation. There is a need for effective stigma reduction strategies in consultations about persistent physical symptoms. • 32 studies addressed stigma in clinical communication settings for PPS/FDs, however few used clear definitions of stigma. • Stigma was reported across multiple conditions and contexts suggesting it is a structural issue. • Patients with these conditions have to work hard in consultations to maintain their credibility. • Only one study observed consultations to see how stigma is being communicated [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Persistent physical symptoms (PPS) are estimated to be present in 17% of patients in general practice. Hence, general practitioners (GPs) play a key role in both the diagnostic assessment and the management of PPS. However, research indicates a need to improve their strategies to support self-help in patients, and eHealth tools may serve as an opportunity. This study aimed to explore patients' and GPs' needs related to self-management of PPS. The study was designed to inform the future development of eHealth interventions in this field. Methods: This qualitative study was based on 20 semi-structured interviews (6 GPs and 14 patients with PPS). Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed through a five-step thematic analysis approach. First, we conducted an inductive analysis to identify and explore emerging subthemes. Second, using a deductive mapping strategy, we categorised the derived subthemes according to the COM-B behaviour change model and its three domains: capability, opportunity and motivation. Results: We identified eleven subthemes in the patient interviews and seven subthemes in the GP interviews. Several unmet needs emerged. First, we identified a need to consider PPS early in the illness trajectory by taking a bio-psycho-social approach. Second, both patients and GPs need better skills to manage uncertainty. Third, hope is important for the patients. Fourth, patients need guidance from their GP in how to self-manage their PPS. Conclusions: This study provides important insight into key issues and needs related to capability, opportunity and motivation that should be addressed in the design of future eHealth self-management interventions targeting patients with PPS in general practice in order to support and improve care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medically unexplained symptoms or persistent physical symptoms are common, real and are associated with significant distress, loss of functioning and high healthcare costs. History, examination and appropriate investigations are essential to make a diagnosis. Once the diagnosis has been made, exploring the impact of the symptoms helps us to tailor our advice to patients. This paper sets out a practical approach to taking a history, assessment and stepwise management principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Biographical disruption describes the process by which illness impacts not just on a person's body and their participation in activities, but also on their sense of self. Biographical disruption is often followed by a process of biographical repair in which identity is reconstructed and a new normality is restored. People with persistent physical symptoms (sometimes referred to as medically unexplained symptoms) experience biographical disruption. This can be complicated by lack of explanation and the implication that if the problem is not medical, then it might be the person/psychological. We aimed to examine this tension in people attending a novel "Symptoms Clinic" for people with persistent physical symptoms., Methods: This study reports an embedded qualitative study in a UK based randomised controlled trial. Data were collected by audio recordings of consultations and semi-structured interviews with patients. We used theoretically informed thematic analysis with regular coding and discussion meetings of the analysis team. This analysis explores the role of intervention components in facilitating biographical repair., Results: The lack of acceptable explanation for persistent symptoms acted as a block to biographical repair. In the clinic, multi-layered explanations were offered and negotiated that viewed persistent symptoms as understandable entities rather than as indicators of something still hidden. These explanations allowed study participants to make sense of their symptoms and in turn opened new opportunities for self-management. The result was that participants were able to reframe their symptoms in a way that enabled them to see themselves differently. Even if symptoms had not yet improved, there was a sense of being better. This can be understood as a process of biographical repair., Conclusion: Explaining persistent physical symptoms enables biographical repair., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Background: Between 10 and 50% of primary care patients present with persistent physical symptoms (PPS). Patients with PPS tend to utilize excessive or inappropriate health care services, while being stuck in a deleterious cycle of inactivity, deconditioning, and further worsening of symptoms and disability. Since military deployment (relative to non-deployment) is associated with greater likelihood of PPS, we examined the interrelationships of health care utilization, symptom burden and functioning among a sample of recently deployed Veterans with new onset persistent physical symptoms. Methods: This study analyzed a cohort of 790 U.S. soldiers who recently returned from deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. Data for this analysis were obtained at pre- and post-deployment. We used moderation analyses to evaluate interactions between physical symptom burden and physical and mental health functioning and four types of health care utilization one-year after deployment, after adjusting for key baseline measures. Results: Moderation analyses revealed significant triple interactions between physical symptom burden and health functioning and: primary care (F = 3.63 [2, 303], R2Δ =.02, p = 0.03), specialty care (F = 6.81 [2, 303] R2Δ =0.03, p <.001), allied therapy care (F = 3.76 [2, 302], R2Δ =.02, p = 0.02), but not mental health care (F = 1.82 [1, 303], R2Δ =.01, p =.16), one-year after deployment. Conclusions: Among U.S. Veterans with newly emerging persistent physical symptoms one-year after deployment, increased physical symptom burden coupled with decreased physical and increased mental health functioning was associated with increased medical care use in the year after deployment. These findings support whole health initiatives aimed at improving health function/well-being, rather than merely symptom alleviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Persistent medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are a major burden for health care. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is efficacious for patients with MUS, with small to medium effects. The current study investigates whether therapy outcomes of a CBT for MUS patients can be improved by complementing it with emotion regulation training.Methods: In a multicentre trial 255 patients with at least three persisting MUS were randomised to 20 sessions of either conventional CBT (n = 128) or CBT complemented with emotion regulation training (ENCERT; n = 127). Somatic symptom severity and secondary outcomes were assessed at pre-treatment, therapy session 8, end of therapy, and 6-month follow-up.Results: Linear mixed-effect models revealed medium to large effects in both study arms for almost all outcomes at the end of therapy and 6-month follow-up. ENCERT and CBT did not differ in their effect on the primary outcome (d = 0.20, 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.44). Significant time × group cross-level interactions suggested ENCERT to be of more benefit than conventional CBT for a few secondary outcomes. Moderator analyses revealed higher effects of ENCERT in patients with co-morbid mental disorders.Discussion/conclusions: Current findings are based on a representative sample. Results demonstrate that both CBT and ENCERT can achieve strong effects on primary and secondary outcomes in MUS patients. Our results do not indicate that adding a training in emotion regulation skills generally improves the effect of CBT across all patients with MUS. Large effect sizes of both treatments and potential specific benefits of ENCERT for patients with co-morbid mental disorders are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the current research was to evaluate, in people with fibromyalgia, the extent to which beliefs about sharing illness experiences are associated with functioning and distress, and to explore the mediating role of illness behaviours. A new scale was designed to address this.Design: The Beliefs about Sharing Illness Experiences (BASIE) scale was developed, and initial tests of reliability and validity were conducted. A cross-sectional design was used to determine relationships, including mediation analyses.Methods: Individuals with fibromyalgia (n = 147) and a comparison group of individuals without fibromyalgia (n = 47) completed questionnaires online. Construct validity was assessed by comparing these two groups. Convergent validity was assessed through correlations with the BASIE and measures of support-seeking and self-sacrifice. Correlation analyses were used to determine relationships with illness behaviours and outcome measures (distress and global impact). Mediation analyses were used to test the indirect effects of illness behaviours.Results: The BASIE was correlated with expected convergent measures and had good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .939). Individuals with fibromyalgia had significantly higher scores than the comparison group. There was a direct relationship between BASIE scores and outcomes, in terms of functioning and distress. The relationship between BASIE scores and functioning was partially mediated by personal/emotional support-seeking and all-or-nothing behaviours, and not by symptom-related support-seeking or limiting behaviours.Conclusion: Beliefs about sharing illness experiences may be a key factor in maintaining cycles of distress and symptoms in people with fibromyalgia, together with all-or-nothing behaviours and personal/emotional support-seeking. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Maintenance of fibromyalgia is likely to be a complex autopoietic relationship including symptoms, beliefs, behaviours, and emotions. Research suggests possible roles of beliefs about unacceptability of emotions and beliefs around interpersonal situations, and behaviours in social situations as well as limiting and all-or-nothing behaviours. People with fibromyalgia may experience stigma, sometimes resulting in secrecy around their condition and symptoms. What does this study add? The BASIE is a 21-item questionnaire that measures beliefs around sharing illness experiences. Individuals with fibromyalgia hold stronger beliefs around unacceptability of sharing illness experiences. These beliefs are related to functioning and distress, partially mediated by illness behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the teaching and delivery of an extended consultation model designed for clinicians to use with patients with persistent physical symptoms and functional disorders. The model is underpinned by current scientific knowledge about persistent physical symptoms and the communication problems that arise in dealing with them., Methods: Process evaluation of training and delivery of the Recognition, Explanation, Action, Learning (REAL) model within the Multiple Symptoms Study 3: a randomised controlled trial of an extended-role GP "Symptoms Clinic". Evaluation used clinician and patient interviews and consultation transcripts., Results: 7 GPs were trained in the intervention and 6 of them went on to deliver the REAL model in Symptoms Clinics either face-to-face or online. The Symptoms Clinic provided a set of 4 extended consultations to approximately 170 patients. Evaluation of training indicated that there was a considerable load in terms of new knowledge and skills. Evaluation of delivery found clinicians could adapt the model to individual patients while maintaining a high level of fidelity to its core components., Conclusion: REAL is a teachable consultation model addressing specific clinical communication issues for people with persistent physical symptoms., Practice Implications: REAL enables clinicians to explain persistent physical symptoms in a beneficial way., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare no competing interests. Competing interests are defined as those potential influences that may undermine the objectivity, integrity, or perceived conflict of interest of a publication. Interactions that occur within 5 years before submission date of an article are pertinent., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Gulf War Illness (GWI) and alcohol use are both major sources of disability among Gulf War Veterans. The goal of this secondary data analysis was to examine associations between risky alcohol use, problem-solving impairment, and disability among Veterans in a randomized clinical trial of problem-solving treatment (PST) for GWI. We examined cross-sectional associations and conducted longitudinal analyses to test if alcohol use moderated treatment outcome of PST. Methods: Participants were 268 United States military Veterans with GWI randomized to PST or a control intervention. Participants were assessed at four timepoints. Measures included the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHO-DAS 2.0), Problem Solving Inventory (PSI), and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Concise (AUDIT-C). We conducted multivariate regression (cross-sectional) and mixed model analyses (longitudinal) with separate models for WHO-DAS 2.0 and PSI. All models included AUDIT-C and household income. This analysis was pre-registered on the Open Science Framework. Results: Cross-sectional analyses revealed a significant negative association with small effect size between AUDIT-C and WHO-DAS 2.0 (p = 0.006; f2 = 0.05); worse disability was associated with less risky alcohol use. There was no evidence that risky alcohol use moderated effects of PST on disability or PSI. Conclusion: If replicated, the cross-sectional findings suggest high levels of disability may deter heavy drinking among Veterans with GWI. We did not find evidence that risky alcohol use moderated treatment outcome of PST for GWI. More research is needed to identify moderators of GWI interventions and to understand risky drinking among Veterans with complex health problems. • Few studies have examined risky alcohol use among Veterans with Gulf War Illness • Worse disability was associated with less risky alcohol use among Veterans with GWI • There was no evidence to suggest risky alcohol use moderates GWI treatment outcome [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]