What Is Fibromyalgia?

Signs & Symptoms

Diagnosing Fibromyalgia

FibroCare Program

What You'll Receive

About Dr. Guariglia

Driving Directions

Financial Information

Recommended Links

Fibromyalgia (FMS or Fibro for short) is a chronic condition which causes widespread pain and fatigue as well as a variety of other symptoms. The name Fibromyalgia comes from "fibro" meaning fibrous tissues (such as tendons and ligaments), "my" meaning muscles, and "algia" meaning pain. It is classified as a type of arthritic condition but unlike arthritis, Fibro does not cause joint pain or swelling. The pain from Fibromyalgia is produced in the soft tissues of the body, including the muscles and tendons. Because Fibromyalgia has few objective signs, and the pain is subjective, it has been called an invisible disability. Certain doctors have even nicknamed it the "irritable everything" syndrome.

The pain of Fibromyalgia is often described as an
aching or burning in many areas of the body and is often accompanied by muscle spasms and stiffness. The degree of pain can vary day-to-day and even minute-to-minute, often changing locations and setting up a confusing pattern. In many people with FMS the pain can be so severe that it stops them from performing even simple tasks. This reduction of activity leads to deconditioning and an overall downward spiral of pain and ill health. Others with Fibromyalgia are lucky enough to only suffer from mild discomfort. The fatigue often associated with FMS is also variable from person to person. Some people with FMS also fit the criteria for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and often these two syndromes are classified together. Thankfully research has shown that Fibro is not usually progressive, not physically crippling, nor does it decrease a person's
expected life span.

Because this syndrome is just now beginning to be recognized, and for years was often misdiagnosed, the exact number of those affected has yet to be determined. Several studies, including resources from The American College of Rheumatology, give a conservative estimate of between 6 and 8 million. Considering how many people are still walking around in pain and misdiagnosed, it is a pretty good bet that there are actually many more that have FMS. An estimated 75% of sufferers are women.

The exact cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, however researches have identified clues that may explain how certian people develop this syndrome. At times, FMS can develop post traumatically. Other theories include a change in the neurochemicals of the brain including substance P and serotonin. There is now some evidence of a genetic predisposition on the female side of the family. It is also widely recognized that people with FMS have biomechanical imbalances and subluxations of the spine.