Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Fibromyalgia syndrome is diagnosed by a constellation of symptoms detailed by the American College of Rheumatology. Diagnosis is based on history of widespread pain and the presence of bilateral tender points in the upper and lower body. Fibromyalgia occurs in up to 6% of the general population with a recent surge in the number of diagnoses as a result of better identification of the disorder. Commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 20 and 50, it has heavy female preponderence. Fibromyalgia pain appears to be related to abnormal nervous system changes and sensitization causing a general hypersensitivity in the body. The etiology of Fibromyalgia syndrome is unclear, but it is comorbid with depression, as well as, myofascial pain syndrome.