Fibromyalgia Health Center

Fibromyalgia syndrome is a common and chronic disorder characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points.

The word fibromyalgia comes from the Latin term for fibrous tissue (fibro) and the Greek ones for muscle (myo) and pain (algia). Tender points are specific places on the body—on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and upper and lower extremities—where people with fibromyalgia feel pain in response to slight pressure.

Fibromyalgia can cause significant pain and fatigue, and it can interfere with a person's ability to carry on daily activities.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, which means it is ongoing. Even though the pain, the fatigue and the other symptoms may get worse with time, there is no obvious damage or inflammation in the muscles or internal organs. Fibromyalgia is not fatal.

Fibromyalgia is common between the ages of 35 and 55. About 80% of those affected are women.

Review Date: 
April 17, 2012
Last Updated:
August 8, 2014
Source:
dailyrx.com