Autistic Traits Correlate with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Self-Selected Population Based Survey

Abstract

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is an increasingly frequent feature in young people. Many exhibit a range of additional physical and psychological features and fulfil criteria for fibromyalgia. Hypermobility, irritable bowel syndrome and migraine are frequent comorbid conditions. These are all in part mediated by dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system and commonly include fatigue, poor sleep and brain fog. Anxiety, social withdrawal and a range of autistic traits are frequently described by those with chronic musculoskeletal pain, and autistic people are over-represented among patients attending pain clinics. This study was designed to explore the correlation between the degree of pain and autistic traits described within a self-selected community-based population. The study used a nonexperimental, correlational design with data collected from a volunteer sample of 448 adults (aged 18-60) who completed online self-report questionnaires assessing each of autistic traits (RAADS-R score), fibromyalgia symptoms (ACR criteria) and hypermobility (Beighton’s test). Correlation analysis and linear regressions were used to test the relationships between each disorder. Data was analysed using parametric and non-parametric techniques to assess prevalence, strength and significance of relationships, causes of variance within populations and mediations. Our self-selected community population had a mean age of 24 years and was 77% female. The prevalence of significant autistic traits, fibromyalgia and hypermobility were all much greater than expected at 63.4%, 40.6% and 43.7% respectively. Those identifying as non-binary or trans had the highest rates. Fibromyalgia was significantly associated with autistic traits, with dysautonomia a stronger predictor than chronic pain. Regression analyses revealed hypermobility partially mediated the relationship between autistic traits and fibromyalgia. This is the first community study to provide evidence for a direct association between fibromyalgia and autistic traits. Although self-selected, the findings in our predominantly young female population confirm that these conditions are common and that those with autistic traits are at significantly increased risk of developing fibromyalgia, especially if they are hypermobile.

Editorial – Redefining neurodivergence: the role of naturopathy and herbal medicine

“…3,4 Other conditions that are common in this population include musculoskeletal complaints and chronic pain. 5 Multidimensional and individualised healthcare is ideally suited. Lifestyle and behavioural techniques, and other usual care options are complemented by naturopathy and herbalism.…”