Fibromyalgia

(FM; Fibromyalgia Syndrome; FMS)

Pronounced: FI-bro-my-OWL-jah

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

Definition

Fibromyalgia is a long-lasting problem that causes a person to have muscle pain and feel weak.

Fibromyalgia Trigger Points

Causes

The cause is not known. It may be linked to genes, certain health problems, and stress.

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in women who are middle aged. Other things that may raise the risk are:

Having other family members who have it
Infections
Stress
Trauma or injury
Sleep problems

Symptoms

Fibromyalgia can cause muscle pain and weakness. Others problems are:

Problems sleeping
Feelings of hopelessness; worrying a lot
Being sensitive to touch
Problems with focus, thought, or memory
Stiff muscles
Being sensitive to noises, light, or odors

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. An exam will be done. There are no specific tests for fibromyalgia. The doctor may need to rule out other causes of pain before a diagnosis can be made.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms. It often includes a combination of steps. Things that may be helpful include:

Exercise

Exercise at least four times a week for 30 minutes each time. Strength training exercises and aerobic exercises like swimming are best.

Therapy

Therapy can help to develop coping skills. It may ease stress and pain levels. Cognitive behavioral therapy is one method that teaches how thought patterns influence pain.

Medicine

Medicines that may help include

Antidepressants to ease pain
Pain relievers
Anti-seizure medicine to ease pain and help with sleep problems
Cannabinoids to help with sleep problems

Prevention

Fibromyalgia cannot be prevented. The cause is not known.

RESOURCES:

American College of Rheumatology
http://www.rheumatology.org

American Fibromyalgia Syndrome Association
http://www.afsafund.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca

Fibromyalgia Information and Local Support
http://fibromyalgia.ncf.ca

References:

About fibromyalgia. National Fibromyalgia Association website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 31, 2020.

Fibromyalgia. American College of Rheumatology website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 31, 2020.

Fibromyalgia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/fibromyalgia. Accessed October 31, 2020.

Fibromyalgia. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia. Accessed October 31, 2020.

Macfarlane GJ, Kronisch C, et al. EULAR revised recommendations for the management of fibromyalgia. Ann Rheum Dis. 2017 Feb;76(2):318-328 full-text, commentary can be found in Nat Rev Rheumatol 2016 Oct;12(10);568.

Last reviewed September 2019 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated: 07/28/2020