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Fibromyalgia Week: Day 1

I have been watching the statistics on this blog since I started it, and I could not help but notice that some of the most popular posts pertained to fibromyalgia.  So, I thought,  why not devote a whole week to the subject?  So, without further ado, on this first day of Fibromyalgia Week, I shall begin with an overview.

The American Medical Association  gave official recognition to fibromyalgia back in 1987. Before that time, this disorder was considered a "wastebasket" diagnosis, but in more recent years it is being recognized as a true illness.





Here are some interesting facts about fibromyalgia:

  • The characteristic feature of fibromyalgia is chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain, associated wit symptoms of fatigue, insomnia, and other symptoms such as stiffness, headache, and chest pain.
  • An interesting and unique feature of fibromyalgia is "tender points"--which are specific targeted areas where people with this disorder feel an amplified pain sensation when only slight pressure is applied.  
  • Fibromyalgia is neither degenerative or progressive in nature.
  • There is no inflammation associated with this disorder.
  • There is no involvement of the joints in this disorder.
Stay tuned--more about fibromyalgia to come tomorrow!

repost from 2014
Source: Fibromyalgia 2nd Edition
               Nikita Katz MD PhD
               Institute for Natural Resources August 2009

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