Fibromyalgia is a chronic, painful and exhausting condition characterized by tender points in certain areas of the body. The cause of this disease is unknown, but physical or emotional trauma might lead to the development of these symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, 2 percent of the population has fibromyalgia. Women are more likely to have fibromyalgia than men. Fibromyalgia can be a difficult disease for doctors to diagnose because the symptoms can be vague and there is no triggering event in many cases. Fibromyalgia, however, is known to affect specific areas of the body.
Upper Body
Fibromyalgia causes pain in certain parts of the body known as trigger points. According to the Mayo Clinic, trigger points in the upper body are located between the shoulder blades, at the top of the shoulders, in the front sides of the neck, in the back of the head, at the upper chest, and at the outer elbows. According to Medline Plus, this pain can be described as deep-aching, radiating, gnawing, shooting or burning, and ranges from mild pain to severe pain. Your doctor will apply firm pressure to these areas to check for tenderness. Although there are not tests to directly detect fibromyalgia, your doctor will likely order blood tests and X-rays to rule out other similar conditions.
Lower Body
To diagnose fibromyalgia, 11 of 18 trigger points are necessary for diagnosis. In addition, the pain must be widespread and occur for more than 3 months. The Mayo Clinic states that the trigger points in the lower body are located at the upper hips, the sides of the hips, and the inner knees. Your doctor will also examine these areas for tenderness. Constant pain in the muscles of the lower legs can be brought on by weather, stress or physical activity, fluctuating with the time of day.
Head Pain
In addition to the trigger points located at the back of the head, chronic facial muscle pain or aching are symptoms of fibromyalgia, according to Medline Plus. Tension or migraine headaches can also occur. Do not hesitate to see your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms.
