Change in physical performance as a predictor of cognitive changes in fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain condition affecting primarily females (90%). The present study is one of the first to explore change in physical and cognitive performance in individuals with FM over time. In particular, how change in physical performance predicts change in cognitive performance over time. Secondary analyses were conducted using data collected in 2008 and 2010. Change scores, correlations and hierarchical regressions were used. Physical measures in the analyses include: Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale, Senior Fitness Test 6-Minute Walk (aerobic endurance), and the 30-Foot Walk (fast walk velocity). Cognitive measures include: Digit Span Forward/Backward, Trail Making Test, Stroop Color-Word Test (attention/executive function) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (processing speed). The present study found that change in physical performance was not predictive of change in cognitive performance over time. In fact, most of the predictability of change in cognition came from age; not from FM status, physical activity level, or change in physical performance on measures of balance, endurance, or fast walk velocity.