Complementary and alternative medicine decision making by women with fibromyalgia

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.