Fibromyalgia Facts

     FMS:  a musculoskeletal pain and fatigue disorder.  The cause is unknown.  “Fibromyalgia” means pain in muscles, ligaments & tendons.

     Diagnosis:  widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for at least three months and pain upon pressure administered on 11 or more of the 18 FMS  tender points, located at neck, shoulder, chest, hip, knee, and elbow areas.

     Symptoms: pain, fatigue, sleep disorders, stiffness, cognitive or memory impairment, numbness and tingling, and many more.

     Associated syndromes: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, chronic headaches, Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.

     Causes: not yet known. Many events--such as an infection, a chronic disease, an injury accident--may “trigger” FMS by activating an existing abnormality.

     Current research focuses on neurotransmitter abnormalities, hormonal control, and brain function.

     Treatment:  medications to improve sleep, boost deficient neurotransmitters, and relieve pain. Also physical & occupational therapy, relaxation therapy, specially designed exercise programs, and more.

This information adapted from “Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS), A Patient’s Guide”
© Fibromyalgia Network, Tucson AZ 85751 Telephone 1-800-853-2929.
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