Last updated: 10/2008

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A Medical Definition Of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that affects between 3 and 10% of the worlds population, most of whom are female. It is most commonly found between the ages of 20 and 50.
Also known as fibromyositis, Fibromyalgia is part of a group of common rheumatoid disorders (those not involving the joints). It is characterized by achy pain, tenderness, and stiffness of muscles.
The painful condition of the muscles can occur as a result of stress, muscle injury, or muscle overuse. Tender areas in the muscles commonly called "knots" but in medical terminology called "tender points" create muscle spasm and tightness.
Fibromyalgia is not contagious, and recent studies suggest that people with fibromyalgia may be genetically predisposed. It affects more women than men, with a ratio globally of 3-5:1.
Estimates now put between three and six percent of the population in the United States alone as having been diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
A related condition that can be present with fibromyalgia, is Myofascial Pain Syndrome or MPS. This condition is also characterized by painful muscles, however people with MPS have trigger points not tender points. Trigger points are places anywhere on the body that when pressed cause pain to radiate in repeatable ways. MPS sometimes follows injuries, overuse injuries such as RSI, and trauma.
MPS sometimes spreads, and a condition which was localized can eventually become quite generalized if left untreated.
Initially MPS and Fibromyalgia were thought to be the same, however it is increasingly clear that they are not. However the confusion arises because they are often present together.
? Health Research Today
Read the rest of this article in Freedom From Fibromyalgia!

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