| Background. Fibromyalgia syndrome primarily afflicts women and is characterized by chronic and widespread musculoskeletal pain. Estimated complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among fibromyalgia syndrome patients is as high as 90%.; Purpose. The purpose of this study was to develop a substantive theory that captures the CAM decision making process in women with fibromyalgia syndrome.; Method. Seventeen in-depth, semi-structured, interviews were conducted consistent with a grounded theory study design.; Results. Participants went through four phases when making the decision to use CAM: (1) establishing readiness, (2) initiating fibromyalgia self management, (3) getting organized and (4) taking action. These results are presented as an emerging substantive theory.; Conclusions. CAM decision making is a process, occurring in phases. By using the Andersen socio-behavioural framework this process of health care utilization can be accurately captured. Understanding these phases will assist health care providers in giving tailored care, specific to the syndrome's stages. |
