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HomeAbout fibromyalgiaDefinition Incidence and risk factorsImportant medical illnesses to considerApproach to the patient with suspected fibromyalgiManagement and treatment

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Technical Information: Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Fibromyalgia.

Edited By: Gregory C. Gardner, M.D.
Last updated Friday, January 07, 2005

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About fibromyalgia

Definition

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a constellation of symptoms and signs that includes widespread body pain (above and below the waist and on both sides of the body) for at least 3 months, and the presence of tender points in characteristic locations of the body. The patient should identify these points as painful (not just pressure) when pressure of 4 kg is applied. This is about equal to the thumbnail turning white when pushing on one of the tender points. For study purposes, 11 of the 18 agreed upon tender points need to be present for classification as FMS (see chart for location of tender points). Common associated features include fatigue, disturbed sleep (patient waking feeling unrefreshed), and exercise intolerance (physical activity may exacerbate symptoms).

Surgery for arthritis at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.

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