Rhythmic Sensory Stimulation on Fibromyalgia

An Investigation of the Effects of Rhythmic Sensory Stimulation on Fibromyalgia

The aim of this project is to further examine the effectiveness of Rhythmic Sensory Stimulation (RSS) with low-frequency sounds and somatosensory stimulation as a complementary therapy for fibromyalgia, and to investigate potential mechanisms underlying the effects of RSS on chronic pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with clinical diagnosis of fibromyalgia
• able to read and write English adequately
• have satisfactory hearing bilaterally (self-reported)
• have the ability to operate the supplied device

Exclusion Criteria:

• acute and active inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, autoimmune disease)
• medical or psychiatric illness
• history of psychosis, epilepsy, seizures
• pregnancy or breast feeding
• hemorrhaging or active bleeding
• thrombosis, angina pectoris
• heart disease, such as hypotension, arrhythmia, pacemaker
• substance abuse (harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive subtances, including alcohol and illicit drugs) in the last year
• suffering from a recently prolapsed vertebral disc
• recovering from a recent accident with back or neck injury.