Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes aches and pain all over the body. Tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs that hurt when pressure is put on them.

True.

It is unknown what causes fibromyalgia, but several factors may be at play. Fibromyalgia may occur by itself, but other suspected causes include:

– A family history of fibromyalgia

– being exposed to stressful or traumatic events, such as car accidents

– Repetitive injuries, which are caused by performing the same action over and over again

– Infections or illnesses

False.

Head-to-toe pain is not a factor in diagnosing fibromyalgia. A doctor will make a diagnosis based on two criteria:

1. A history of widespread pain present at least 3 months. Pain is in both sides of the body, as well as above and below the waist.
2. Presence of tender points, which are points that feel pain when pressure is put on them. The body has 18 possible tender point sites. For a fibromyalgia diagnosis a person must have 11 or more of these tender points. People who have fibromyalgia may also feel pain at other sites, but the specific 18 sites on the body are used for diagnosis.

MFR is an excellent treatment for working out the painful muscle knots that form tender points on the body. It also relieves stress, allowing you to enjoy more restful sleep. A dry Needling is another helpful way to relieve fibromyalgia pain without drugs. This ancient technique releases your body’s own natural painkilling substances (endorphins) for safe, effective relief. 

While the condition can affect people of all ages and races, fibromyalgia is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged women. Individuals with a family history of fibromyalgia are more commonly diagnosed, as well.

In additional studies, obesity and lack of physical activity have been linked to more severe fibromyalgia symptoms.