What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that can be linked to more than one cause. It can

• be brought on suddenly by a fall or automobile accident,
• start with an illness like the common flu, or
• develop after a sudden hormonal change that occurs after a hysterectomy or birth of a child.

In addition, symptoms may occur for no obvious reason at all, and those affected may become inactive, depressed, and anxious about their health, further aggravating the disorder.

Pain and fluctuating fatigue are the most prominent characteristics of fibromyalgia. These symptoms may flare and subside over time, but rarely disappear entirely. An estimated three million Americans are afflicted with this illness, the cause of which is still unknown. Considered to be a disease of the central nervous system, fibromyalgia is a form of soft-tissue or muscular rheumatism that has an increased frequency among women 20 to 50 years old.

Common symptoms.

Most patients with fibromyalgia complain of pain at multiple sites of the body - such as the neck, shoulders, chest, rib cage, lower back, hips, thighs, knees and arms - that frequently cause them to ache all over. Associated symptoms include poor sleep patterns, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic headaches, forgetfulness, memory loss, chronic facial muscle pain or aching, anxiety and depression.

Diagnosis.

Diagnosis does not rely on blood tests or x-rays, but simply on a history of symptoms, ruling out other illnesses (such as autoimmune disorders and thyroid disease) and the presence of two findings: widespread pain over time, and 11 out of 18 tender points at specific areas of the body. A rheumatologist could help to diagnose the disease.

The best treatment.

Since those affected by fibromyalgia find it painful to move, they tend to limit their physical activity. As a result, muscles become shorter and weaker, and ligaments, tendons and cartilage become more prone to injury because they are not utilized. The key is to start an exercise program gradually and break the cycle of pain.

To reap the greatest benefit from the program, a patient should commit to:

• attend therapy sessions regularly
• do the assigned exercises
• take medications as prescribed
• understand that the pain can be managed but not necessarily eliminated
• let your physician and therapist know what is working and what is not working for you.

The best treatment for fibromyalgia is a multidisciplinary approach that involves behavioral science, medication, physical therapy and neurobiofeedback. A physician referral is required.