Fibromyalgia: What you should know

Fibromyalgia is not only a medical disorder but also a syndrome characterized by chronic non-localized pain and allodynia, a heightened and painful response to pressure. It should not be confused with RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) characterized by muscle weakness caused due to repetitive activity.

Fibromyalgia has also been linked to fatigue, inadequate sleep, headaches, depression, and anxiety.

Common causes include:

• Physical or emotional trauma
• Abnormal pain response
• Erratic sleep cycle
• Viral infections (although no known etiology has been established so far)

Symptoms include:

• Pain in the soft tissues present at the back of the neck and shoulders, which gradually spread to the chest, lower back, hips, shins, elbows, and knees
• Deep, shooting, recurrent pain
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Impaired memory and concentration
• Numbness and tingling sensation in hands and feet
• Reduced ability to exercise
• Tension or migraine headaches

What you can do for Fibromyalgia:

• Sleep and rest adequately
• Increase calcium and protein intake
• Take short breaks in between work
• Avoid stress by all means

Therapeutic treatments available:

• Physiotherapy
• Psychological and behavioral therapy
• Exercise and fitness program
• Pharmaceutical methods
• Stress-relief techniques
• Eating a well-balanced diet
• Implementing a good sleep routine

If you have similar symptoms, please consult your doctor for more information on Fibromyalgia.