The Effects of Core Shamanism in Fibromyalgia
This study aims to determine the feasibility of a shamanism intervention for patients with fibromyalgia, acquire efficacy data to determine if Shamanism reduces clinical pain and other common symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, and determine if the Shamanism intervention changes heart rate electrocardiogram (ECG), breathing rate, and brain wave electroencephalogram (EEG) outcomes in fibromyalgia patients and shamanic practitioners. The investigators hypothesize that 80% of individuals will complete at least 80% of study visits, clinical pain severity and/or interference will be significantly reduced following the Shamanic intervention, and lung, heart, and/or brain activity will be altered with the Shamanic intervention and also become more synchronized between Shamanic Practitioners (SPs) and patients during the course of treatment.
• Female
• Over 18 and under 75 years of age.
• Fibromyalgia patients and satisfies the 2016 Fibromyalgia Diagnostic Criteria for the classification of FM.
• Mean recalled pain over the last seven days (7-day recall) greater than or equal to 4 on a 10 cm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain; 7-day recall.
• Willing to limit the introduction of any new medications or treatment modalities for control of FM symptoms during the study.
• Able to travel to the study site to receive shamanic treatments up to twice weekly.
• Understanding and willing to complete all study procedures.
• Capable of giving written informed consent.
• Proficient ability to speak, read, and write in english.