fibromyalgia
The word fibromyalgia means pain in the muscles and fibrous tissue (ligaments and tendons). Fibromyalgia is characterized by generalized musculoskeletal pain and painful pressure sensation at specific points (tender points). This pain resembles that originating in the joints but is not a joint disease.
Fibromyalgia is recognized as a syndrome, which means that the rheumatologist identifies it when he finds in a certain person alterations that agree with those previously fixed by experts for his diagnosis.
Fibromyalgia is common. Approximately 2% to 6% of the general population suffers from it, especially women. It can appear as a single alteration (primary bromyalgia) or associated with other diseases (concomitant bromyalgia).
Pain is one of the most bothersome symptoms of fibromyalgia. It is diffuse and affects a large part of the body. Sometimes the pain begins in a generalized way, and in others in a specific area such as the neck, shoulder, lumbar spine, etc. and from here it spreads. The person who seeks the help of the doctor usually says “everything hurts”. The pain of fibromyalgia can be explained by those who suffer from it as stinging, discomfort or discomfort. Sometimes muscle spasms may occur. It often varies in relation to the time of day, activity level, climate changes, lack of sleep or stress.
The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is made on the basis of the complaints that have been noted and based on the data that the doctor finds during the examination.
The aim of the treatment is to improve the pain and treat the accompanying symptoms, to achieve a great improvement in the person’s quality of life. The steps to follow for the correct treatment of fibromyalgia are: the explanation of the nature of the disease, education to avoid aggravating factors, the treatment of associated psychological disorders if any, physical exercise, massages and acupuncture.
- Click here to download information from the SER on fibromyalgia.
- Click here to download the “Fibromyalgia Guide” of the SER
- Click here to see information from the American College of Rheumatology on Fibromyalgia
- Foundation affected by Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Catalan Association of Fibromyalgia Sufferers
– Bennett RM. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2009; 35:215.
– Goldenberg DL. Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Am J Med 2009; 122:S14.
– Goldenberg DL, Burckhardt C, Crofford L. Management of fibromyalgia syndrome. JAMA 2004; 292:2388.
