The Effectiveness of Operant Learning Versus Energy Conservation Activity Pacing Treatments in Fibromyalgia

"The present therapist manual focuses on the operant learning approach, which emphasizes the use of positively reinforced activity quotas that are time and/or goal contingent, rather than pain-contingent, using a gradually increased activity-rest cycling approach (Fordyce, 1976).~This manual includes a total of 10 group sessions (duration: 2 hours each), two booster sessions at 3 and 6 months post-intervention (duration: 1 hour each) and a 1 follow-up session at 12 months post-intervention (duration: 1 hour). The 10 group sessions are held on a weekly basis for the 2 first months, and every 2 weeks for the remaining 3rd months."

"The present therapist manual focuses on the energy conservation approach, which emphasizes management of participant energy expenditure, and seeks to achieve a balance between accomplishing important day-to-day activities and resting in order to reduce or avoid pain and fatigue (Hammond, 2004).~This manual includes a total of 10 group sessions (duration: 2 hours each), two booster sessions at 3 and 6 months post-intervention (duration: 1 hour each) and a 1 follow-up session at 12 months post-intervention (duration: 1 hour). The 10 group sessions are held on a weekly basis for the 2 first months, and every 2 weeks for the remaining 3rd months."