Do you suffer from chronic pain? You may have fibromyalgia.

What is Fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain illness characterized by widespread musculoskeletal aches, pain, and stiffness, soft tissue tenderness, general fatigue, and sleep disturbances. The most common sites of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle, and hands.

Who is affected? It is estimated that approximately 5-7% of the U.S. population has FM. Although a higher percentage of women of all ages and races are affected, it does strike men and children. Because of its debilitating nature, fibromyalgia has a serious impact on patients' families, friends and employers, as well as society at large.

What are the symptoms? FM is characterized by the presence of multiple tender points and a constellation of symptoms.

Pain: The pain of FM is profound, widespread and chronic. FM pain has been described as deep muscular aching, throbbing, twitching, stabbing and shooting pain. Neurological complaints such as numbness, tingling and burning are often present and add to the discomfort of the patient. The severity of the pain and stiffness is often worse in the morning. Aggravating factors that affect pain include cold/humid weather, non-restorative sleep, physical and mental fatigue, excessive physical activity, physical inactivity, anxiety and stress.

Fatigue: In today's world many people complain of fatigue; however, the fatigue of FM is much more than being tired. It is an all-encompassing exhaustion that interferes with even the simplest daily activities. It feels like every drop of energy has been drained from the body, which at times can leave the patient with a limited ability to function both mentally and physically.

Sleep Problems: Many fibromyalgia patients have an associated sleep disorder that prevents them from getting deep, restful, restorative sleep.

Other Symptoms: Additional symptoms may include: irritable bowel and bladder, headaches and migraines, restless legs syndrome (periodic limb movement disorder), impaired memory and concentration, skin sensitivities and rashes, dry eyes and mouth, anxiety, depression, ringing in the ears, dizziness, vision problems, Raynaud's Syndrome, neurological symptoms, and impaired coordination.

How is it diagnosed? Currently there are no laboratory tests available for diagnosing fibromyalgia. Doctors must rely on patient histories, self-reported symptoms, a physical examination and an accurate manual tender point examination. It is estimated that it takes an average of five years for a FM patient to get an accurate diagnosis. Many doctors are still not adequately informed or educated about FM. To receive a diagnosis of FM, the patient must meet the following diagnostic criteria:

Widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months

Tenderness or pain in at least 11 of the 18 specified tender points when pressure is applied (see figure below)

How is FM treated? Each patient should, with the input of a healthcare practitioner, establish a multifaceted and individualized approach that works for them, including pain management, sleep management, psychological support, and alternative treatments such as nutrition, chiropractic care, massage, relaxation techniques and exercise. Chiropractic care can help with the symptoms associated with this debilitating syndrome. This is what one of my patients had to say:

“I recently experienced the worst fibromyalgia flare-up of my life. I had been told surgery was my only remaining option when anesthesia injections, two epidurals, and strong pain medication had not eased my pain after two weeks of total immobilization. My children, who were familiar with the Blair technique, begged me to talk to Dr. Brown before undergoing surgery. After Dr. Brown adjusted me—and all she did was adjust my neck—she had me lay down for an hour. I slept. When I woke up, I felt immediate relief. My muscles were totally relaxed. Within two days, I went from taking Lortab and heavy-duty muscle relaxants to needing no medication. The pain went away! I was astounded. I told Dr. Brown she had healing hands.” Linda Simpson, 55

I have been blessed to be able to help many people with fibromyalgia: hurting people, whose quality of life is gone because of this debilitating syndrome. Please help me to help more!


If you want more information about fibromyalgia, you can also contact:
National Fibromyalgia Association
2200 N. Glassell St., Suite A, Orange, CA 92865
Phone: 714.921.0150 Fax: 714.921.6920
www.fmaware.org