An Overview of FMS Fibromyalgia

18 Tender Points

What is Fibromyalgia (FMS)?

FMS is a disorder that causes chronic (long term) aches and pains in the fibrous tissues of certain muscles. The aches and pains are more pronounced in some muscles than others and differ from one day to the next. For example, the aches may be stronger in the legs on Monday, then by Wednesday it may lessen in the legs and be stronger in the arms or neck, and on Thursday appear in the hips and gluteus muscles.

The image shows the areas of discomfort associated with Fibromyalgia. The dots are the 18 tender points where doctors test to determine whether a patient has fibro. Tender points don't refer pain to other parts, however, they hurt when pressure is applied. Trigger points are associated with Chronic Myofascial Pain (CMP) and radiate to other parts of the body. It is possible for some people to have both of these conditions present at the same time and the one can worsen the effects of the other.

Diagnosis

Before choosing the most effective therapy to control your symptoms, it is recommended to first understand the differences between FMS and CMP and how they may interact. There has been general confusion and a lack of information about CMP and many of the symptoms are similar in nature to fibromyalgia symptoms. Determining this early on in the testing process will save in money, time and health over the long run. If you experience pain in a minimum of 11 of the 18 distinct tender points, and the physician has taken a few blood tests to rule out other conditions, the diagnosis of FMS may well be decided.

This condition occurs in children and adults of all ages and primarily in adult women between 35 to 55 years of age. It affects 5 to 10% of the population and is characterized by tight, tender muscles; soreness in the neck, shoulders, chest, back, knees and hips. Other symptoms include insomnia and sleep difficulties. With the 80 million Americans having been diagnosed with FMS, it is the 3rd leading cause of physical impairment in the U.S. The most factual information on fibro education is contained by the Arthritis Foundation.

Therapies

A low-impact exercise routine has proven to lessen symptoms, such as aerobics, palates, yoga, bicycling, walking and swimming. Massage and hydrotherapy (warm bath soaks) have also shown to be effective.

I will soon submit a post describing important vitamins and supplements that have shown to be effective to mediate the symptoms caused by fms.

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