Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal syndrome which causes widespread pain, aching, stiffness and tenderness in muscles all over the body. According to HealthCommunities.com, the neck and lower back are spots most frequently affected by fibromyalgia.
Pain
Fibromyalgia is classified as an arthritic syndrome, although the widespread pain occurs in the skeletal muscles, tendons, ligaments and bursa surrounding the joints. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, the pain can present as aching, stabbing, throbbing and twitching, along with numbness, in the neck and back. Pain is typically worse in the morning.
Diagnosis
According to Fibromyalgia Symptoms, there are 18 tender points located around the body, 10 of which are located in the neck and back, occurring over ligament attachments. Pressing on the tender points elicits a reaction of pain in the sufferer. Along with a 3-month history of widespread pain, 11 out of 18 trigger points must be sensitive to make the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for fibromyalgia includes analgesics such as acetaminophen and antidepressants to help with sleep issues. According to MayoClinic.com, the anti-seizure medication Lyrica, generic name pregabalin, is the first medication approved specifically for the treatment of fibromyalgia. In addition, physical therapy and counseling may help.
