New study probes how placebos could ease fibromyalgia's chronic pain

A new study at LWL University Hospital is exploring how placebos affect chronic pain, focusing on fibromyalgia syndrome. Led by Prof. Martin Diers, the research aims to uncover insights into the development, persistence, and treatment of long-term pain conditions. Participants, including both fibromyalgia patients and healthy volunteers, will be compensated for their involvement. The study forms part of a wider series of investigations by the same research group. This time, the team will examine the effects of open-label placebos—where participants know they are receiving a placebo—on pain perception. Advanced neuroscience techniques will be used to track brain activity and pain processing, including functional MRI (fMRI) for measuring neural responses, EEG for monitoring electrical activity in the brain, and EMG to analyse muscle responses linked to pain signals.

Women with fibromyalgia and healthy individuals are invited to take part. Those interested can reach out to M.Sc. Benjamin Mosch, the study coordinator, for further details. He can be contacted by phone at 0234 50959020 or via email at [email protected].

The findings could provide a clearer understanding of how placebos influence chronic pain, particularly in conditions like fibromyalgia. By combining behavioural research with cutting-edge neuroimaging, the study may contribute to improved therapies for long-term pain management. Participants will receive compensation for their time and contribution.