The Effects of CBT and tDCS on Fibromyalgia Patients

The Effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Fibromyalgia Patients

Investigators are seeking to determine the effects of CBT, anodal tDCS over left DLPFC, and combined CBT+ tDCS on clinical pain and functioning among a sample of patients with fibromyalgia. This study will be the first randomized, double-blind, controlled study of tDCS technology as an adjunctive pain management strategy for fibromyalgia pain. Data from this trial will likely yield information regarding the feasibility and efficacy of tDCS+CBT as a chronic pain-management approach.

Patients with fibromyalgia will complete questionnaires, six cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, quantitative sensory testing before and after the six therapy sessions, and undergo 30 minutes of tDCS during each of the six therapy sessions.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Meet the American College of Rheumatology criteria for diagnosis of fibromyalgia for at least 1 year.
2. Between the ages of 21 and 85

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Other chronic pain conditions
2. on chronic opioid therapy
3. history of seizures
4. are or might be pregnant
5. metal/electronic implants or devices above the waist
6. moderate to severe depression (HDRS >19)
7. moderate to severe anxiety (BAI >16)
8. Latex allergy
9. Psychiatric illness other than mild depression or anxiety
10. on medications that lower seizure threshold