The condition called “fibromyalgia” is a myofascial pain syndrome (a muscular pain syndrome) that can result in generalized back pain and muscle pain, a feeling of general fatigue, and specific tender areas. The patient will have a normal neurological exam, but may have multiple spots that are tender to palpation, called "tender points". These tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs. These points hurt when pressure is put on them.
Fibromyalgia most commonly affects middle-age women who are otherwise healthy. However, the condition can affect women of all ages, as well as men and children.
While there is no known anatomical reason for the syndrome, it is suspected that there are underlying biochemical causes.
Difficulty sleeping
Feeling tired after waking from sleep, instead of feeling refreshed
Stiff joints in the morning that usually feel better as the day goes on
Headaches
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
Depression
Physicians who treat fibromyalgia typically include family physicians, general internists, or rheumatologists (who specialize in treating painful conditions that involve the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments). Often a team of healthcare professionals is the best option to treat the diverse symptoms of fibromyalgia.
For example, treatment for fibromyalgia may include one or a combination of the following options:
Massage or injections of lidocaine may be used to help relieve the pain in tender spots
Non-narcotic pain medications (e.g. acetaminophen)
Low-impact aerobic conditioning
Antidepressants (e.g. Amytriptiline), both for help with sleeping and to alleviate the pain
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD
Updated February
21, 2006
First published September 8, 1999
