There's nothing simple about Fibromyalgia. From its hard-to-pronounce name (fy-bro-my-AL-juh) to its

unknown cause and lack of a cure, this syndrome of widespread pain and fatigue can be daunting.

Most doctors don't know a lot about it. Some doubt it really exists.

Plus, many sufferers also have other difficult-to-diagnose ailments, such as chronic fatigue syndrome.

Not all the news about Fibromyalgia is so dismal, however, more and more doctors are learning how to diagnose the condition, and treatment options are expanding, according to Don L. Goldenberg, M.D., director of the Arthritis-Fibromyalgia Center of Newton-Wellesley Hospital in Newton, Massachusetts.

Fibromyalgia at a Glance

Symptoms: The most common signs are musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and tenderness at specific sites ("tender points") throughout the body.

Other symptoms may include sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, bowel irregularities, headaches, jaw and facial tenderness, and anxiety.

Some women report that their symptoms worsen before or during their menstrual periods.

Incidence: An estimated 3.7 million Americans, and 5% of the Canadian population with approximately 90% of those

diagnosed being women between the ages of 20-50 years.

Cause: Unknown, though it may be triggered by an injury, viral infection or changes in muscle metabolism.

Because Fibromyalgia seems to run in families, some doctors think there may be a genetic component.

Diagnosis: Musculoskeletal pain persisting for three months or more, in combination with tenderness in at least 11 of the 18 tender points.

Treatment: One of the known methods that can limit or control the effects of Fibromyalgia is a well-organized

and monitored fitness program that consists of  cardiovascular, muscle conditioning and flexibility exercises. 

All of these factors promote healing effects within the body.  Some of these benefits are due to the increased blood flow and

the release of certain hormones that are induced through consistent exercise. 

An exercise program that is structured around you and your lifestyle is available at FITFIX Health and Wellness. 

Allow us to provide you with answers to some of the questions and concerns you may have.

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