Fibromyalgia Is as difficult to diagnose as it is to treat. Unfortunately there is no laboratory test or x-ray that can diagnose Fibromyalgia. Research however, has revealed that upon physical examination the presence of 18 specific points that are tender or painful to the touch. To qualify for a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, patients must ache all over and have tenderness in 11 or more of these spots when 4 kgs. of pressure is applied. Further test may be warranted if a patient's history and examination suggest a predisposing or coexisting condition. Commonly physicians are ruling out a panoply of disorders such as arthritis, connective tissue disease, neurologic disorders, rheumatism, or thyroid disease. Undertaking all possible investigations reinforces the patients confidence in the diagnosing of this mysterious and debilitating syndrome. According to National Institute of Health's (NIH) National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease (NIAMS), fibromyalgia is "a chronic disorder marked by wide spread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and multiple tender points." These tender points refer to soreness that occur in precise, localized areas, particularly in the neck, spine, shoulders and hips. People with this disorder may also have sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, irritable bowel syndrome, in addition to other symptoms. Although this syndrome mostly strikes women of childbearing age, children, the elderly, and men can also be affected.
Studies done on fibromyalgia patients at the Touch Research Institute, at the Miami School of Medicine. Has shown that massage therapy for "fibromyalgia syndrome" improved sleep patterns and decreased pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and cortisol levels. The exact cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, but in recent years studies have shown that the muscles are especially vulnerable to decreased circulation and trauma. Research is also looking at the role of certain hormones and body chemicals that may alter pain, sleep and/or moods. Bottom line... Fibromyalgia is a difficult disease to live with. For those who have it, the cure and/or relief may be found through lifestyle changes that come in the form of diet change, moderate exercise, vitamins and supplement, getting enough sleep, and massage. But as with all lifestyle changes, you must check with your Doctor first. For further information: Fibromyalgia Network...5700 stockdale hgwy, Suite 100, Bakersfield, CA. 93309, 805.631.1950 National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disease University of Miami School of Medicine
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