Fibromyalgia overview

Chronic widespread pain and fatigue

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating long-term condition characterised by pervasive and chronic pain, muscle stiffness and fatigue. The word ‘fibromyalgia’ literally means ‘muscle fibre pain’.

There is no cure for fibromyalgia as such, however it can be managed by lifestyle changes, including for example getting the right amount of sleep, eating a healthy diet and taking regular physical activity.

View Possible Causes Contact Us

Possible causes of fibromyalgia

Changes that can affect the facet joints

The precise cause of the condition is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be related to previous injuries or infections, or even specific chemical exposure. It is also considered to be related to stress and may have a genetic component (i.e. inherited). Largely, it is now considered to be a central nervous system issue rather than a peripheral musculature issue.

The precise mechanism is believed to be a form of overrepresentation of normal pain signals by the brain and/or the nerves, thought to be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain and/or disruption of normal CNS signalling.

Request An Appointment Contact Us

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia

How fibromyalgia can affect the body

Fibromyalgia also has a tendency to flare up after periods when it seems to have gone away. It is thought these flare ups are triggered by a wide range of factors, from hormonal changes to overexertion, stress and illness. Even changes in the weather have been implicated in fibromyalgia flare ups. The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are:

Constant dull aching

Persistent aching and tenderness across the body

Stiffness of muscles

Tightness and reduced ease of movement

Fatigue

Ongoing tiredness or low energy levels

Short-term memory loss

Difficulty retaining recent information

Numbness in the limbs

Altered sensations affecting the limbs

Muscle cramping

Painful involuntary tightening of muscles

Concentration impariment

Reduced concentration and mental clarity, or 'brain fog'

Headache

Recurring or persistent head pain

Insomnia

Difficulty falling or staying asleep

Anxiety

Ongoing feelings of worry or unease

Dry eye

Reduced moisture or irritation in the eyes

Urinary tract issues

Symptoms affecting normal bladder function

Fibromyalgia risk factors

Who may be at greater risk?

People at higher risk of developing fibromyalgia include:

  • Women, although more men are being diagnosed with the condition
  • People in middle age
  • People with a family history of the condition
  • People having some other chronic inflammatory conditions e.g. rheumatoid arthritisCommon symptoms of fibromyalgia

Request An Appointment Contact Us

Fibromyalgia tests and diagnosis

How fibromyalgia is diagnosed

Diagnosing the condition can be difficult, due to the similarity of symptoms to a range of other conditions, including arthritis and some autoimmune conditions.

There are currently no straightforward tests for the condition, as blood tests and imaging tests will not show any abnormalities.

The current diagnostic process involves assessment of the type of pain over a period of time, generally 3 months or longer, and by how widespread it is in the body. It is generally not classified as fibromyalgia if pain is not present on both sides of the body and if pain only affects the upper or the lower body, above or below the waist.

View All Treatments Contact Us

Ready to take the next step?

  • Comprehensive pain assessments
  • Individual treatment planning
  • Medication review and optimisation

Request an appointment Contact our team

Melbourne Pain Group Glen Waverley Head Office Outside Photo