Fibromyalgia

Defining Fibromyalgia

Reported by Deep Health Network (2010) approximately one in 50 Americans have been estimated to be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and is 2nd most common ailment affecting the musculoskeletal system after osteoarthritis (Fibromyalgia Statistics, para. 1). Fibromyalgia can be hard to cope with and there are certain conditions that increase the effects one must deal with daily. Many sources define Fibromyalgia as a “chronic syndrome with musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, and tenderness of muscles, tendons and joints, without detectable inflammation in multiple sites” (2002). Fibromyalgia pain can mimic the pain caused by various types of arthritis (Fibromyalgia information, para. 2).

A known cause to Fibromyalgia has not yet been discovered but there are many theories that have been formulated. Some scientists state that FMS patients have abnormal pain transmission responses, sleep disturbances, or disturbances in brain chemistry. Although it has been said to be hereditary, there has not been any solid proof that Fibromyalgia is genetic. Fibromyalgia seems to run in families causing this theory to have some substance. When determining if a patient has FMS, there are many tests that are performed. A full blood count and Rheumatoid factor test are the first two tests completed. These tests are run to eliminate the possibility of “like” conditions resembling Fibromyalgia. Doctors will then run an ANA and an ESR (screens to check for auto immune disease). The X-rays and MRIs can exclude more serious conditions that can either appear to be Fibromyalgia or other conditions that may trigger it. The diagnostic requirements are widespread pain that has been present for at least three months and occurs in all four quadrants of the body resulting in at least 11 of the 18 diagnostic pressure points (Deep Health Network, 2010).

Daily discomfort is experienced with FMS sufferers. The three primary symptoms are musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and...