Fibromyalgia (fye-bro-my-AL-gee-ah) is a common form
of generalized muscular pain and fatigue.
The name "fibromyalgia" means pain in the muscles and
fibrous connective tissues (ligaments and tendons).
This condition is referred to as a "syndrome" because it's
a set of signs and symptoms that occur together.
Fibromyalgia is especially confusing and often misunderstood
because symptoms are common in other conditions.
It is a form of soft-tissue or muscular rheumatism rather
than arthritis of a joint.
Spine Pain and Fibromyalgia are the two problems seen most
frequently in the Tupelo Pain Clinic. Careful physical
examination plus any needed diagnostic studies help point
to the correct diagnoses. A part of the physical examination
which is new and most helpful is to localize the point of
maximum pain over the anterior cervical spine by palpation.
The next step is to x-ray the cervical spine to learn which
disc is nearest the most painful site. In almost every case
the marker will be over or very near a cervical disc.
The examination and x-ray may be repeated at subsequent visits.
The painful disc produces the painful fibromyalgia sites.
The pain may be on one side or both sides.
It may be at the same level or multiple levels.
Examination with the index finger is often required at
the C6-C7 level to locate the painful disc.
What Are the Symptoms?
Pain is the most prominent symptom.
It usually involves "tender points" on the body where
pain seems the greatest.
Fatigue and sleep disturbances occur in about 90% of
people who have fibromyalgia.
Nervous system symptoms include changes in mood and
thinking that may include depression, anxiety,
difficulty in concentration. It also involves feelings
of numbness and tingling in hands, arms, feet, and face.
Migraine headaches, abdominal pain, bloating or
alternating constipation and diarrhea are common.
How Is It Diagnosed?
By the presence of widespread pain in combination
with tenderness at specific locations, and chronic fatigue.
Careful history and physical exam can rule out other
conditions.
Because not all doctors are aware of this disease,
finding a rheumatologist or other doctor who is very
familiar with this condition is important.
What Causes It?
Many different factors, alone or in combination, are
suspected such as:
Physical trauma
Emotional trauma
Hormonal changes
Illness, such as flu
Muscle abnormalities
Neurotransmitters
Treatment Options
Exercise that involves muscle stretching and
improved cardiovascular fitness.
Educational programs to help you manage your arthritis.
Medications to diminish pain and improve sleep such
as acetaminophen, antidepressants, NSAIDs
Relaxation techniques
