The muscles, bones and joints add structure, support and balance to the body. Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in these areas that comes and goes with no warning. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, fibromyalgia is one of the most common chronic pain conditions, and it affects nearly 10 million people in the United States.
Misconceptions
When fibromyalgia flares up, it can cause intense pain in the joints and muscles. This is not a sign that it is progressing because the body actually does not suffer any physical damage. But daily activities and functions can still be difficult to perform, even if they are simple.
Symptoms
Fibromyalgia signs and symptoms vary depending on physical exertion, weather and the stress that you are under. Other than muscle pain, additional pain can be felt when tender points are touched on the body. Examples of these points are behind the head, the front sides of the neck, inner knees and tops of the shoulders. Chronic fatigue syndrome, headaches, depression, osteoarthritis and restless legs syndrome are secondary conditions that are also often seen with fibromyalgia.
Risks
There is no known cause for fibromyalgia to develop, but several risk factors can increase your chances of getting it. Women are more susceptible than men; if someone in your family has it, you are also at risk of getting it and if you have rheumatic arthritis or lupus, your risk goes up.
Diagnosis
In diagnosing fibromyalgia, there are two main criteria that have to be met that were set up by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). Pain is widespread throughout the body for at least three months, and tenderness or pain is experienced in at least 11 of the 18 tender points when pressure is applied to them.
Treatment
Improving general health and reducing symptoms are the main goals of fibromyalgia treatments. Antidepressants, analgesics and anti-seizure drugs can all be prescribed to induce sleep and reduce the pain and stiffness that occurs. Hot and cold compresses and special exercises can also be used to reduce pain and improve muscle balance.
Alternative Care
Because a high stress level is a trigger for fibromyalgia, several alternative activities can be done to help relieve it. Chiropractic care, massage therapy and acupuncture are all examples of treatment that may help.
