Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain in muscles and soft tissues all over the body. It is an ongoing (chronic) condition. It can affect your neck, shoulders, back, chest, hips, buttocks, arms, and legs. The pain may be worse in the morning and evening. Sometimes, the pain may last all day long. The pain may get worse with activity, cold or damp weather, anxiety and stress. The condition affects about 1 in 50 to 1 in 25 people in the U.S. It is most common in middle-aged women.

What causes fibromyalgia?

The cause is unknown. Researchers think there may be a link with sleep problems and stress. It may also be linked to immune, endocrine, or biochemical problems.

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Each person’s symptoms may vary. But chronic pain is the most common symptom. The pain most often affects the muscles and the points where muscles attach to bones. These are the ligaments and tendons.

Pain may start in one part of your body, such as your neck and shoulders. Any part of the body can be affected. . The pain ranges from mild to severe. It may feel like burning, soreness, stiffness, aching, or gnawing pain. You may have sore spots in certain parts of your muscles. It may feel like arthritis, but it’s not a condition that gets worse. And it doesn’t damage muscles or bones.

Other common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Medium to severe tiredness (fatigue)
• Less exercise endurance
• Sleep problems at night
• Depressed mood
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel symptoms, such as belly (abdominal) pain and bloating, diarrhea, and constipation
• Restless legs
• Painful menstrual periods
• Trouble thinking clearly (called “fibro fog”)

These symptoms can seem like other health conditions. Make sure to see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call:

• SBL Bonutti Clinic at 217 342-3400, or
• SBL Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at 217 238-3435

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