Fibromyalgia Pain

Introduction

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, nonrestorative sleep, and easy fatigability along with multiple tender points that are widely and symmetrically distributed.⁵⁸ The prevalence of fibromyalgia in the general population is estimated to be 2%, affecting 3.4% of women and 0.5% of men. Prevalence increases with age, reaching 7% in women ages 60 to 79.⁵⁹ Fibromyalgia has been reported following trauma, emotional stress, medical illness, surgery and hypothyroidism. Symptoms include generalized aching and stiffness of the trunk and hip and shoulder girdles, and patients complain of pain even after mild exertion. Pain is typically unremitting, and it has been described as burning or gnawing, soreness, stiffness or aching.⁵⁸