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Fibromyalgia - Defined
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Fibromyalgia is a
complex syndrome characterized by pain amplification, musculoskeletal
discomfort, and multiple systemic symptoms. In order to meet the criteria
established by the American College of Rheumatology, the pain must have been
present for at least 3 months' duration, and must be present in all 4
quadrants of the body. The pain must occur in certain specific anatomical
sites and there have been 18 such sites identified. In the past, it was felt
that at least 11 of these sites must produce severe pain when 8 pounds of
pressure were applied in order for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia to be
established. Recently, many researchers and clinicians have felt that even
if less than 11 sites were active at the time of the exam, if other criteria
were met, the diagnosis of fibromyalgia could still be made. The reference above to "multiple systemic symptoms" means that symptoms occur in such systems of the body as musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, genitourinary, nervous, lymphatic, immune, and respiratory systems. |
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The Four
Quadrants
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18 Pain Sites
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