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Biomedical models of fibromyalgia
Samuel A McLean1, Daniel J Clauw
1University of Michigan Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48106, USA. samclean@umich.edu
Disability and Rehabilitation
|July 14, 2005
Summary
Fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic widespread pain (CWP) affect millions, often misunderstood due to a lack of neurobiological understanding. Research highlights central pain processing abnormalities in FM, improving patient and physician care.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pain Medicine
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic widespread pain (CWP) are prevalent yet poorly understood conditions.
- A significant neurobiological basis for FM and CWP exists but is not widely recognized by medical professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current epidemiological data on FM and CWP.
- To present evidence supporting a neurobiological foundation for these pain disorders.
- To discuss factors influencing the development of FM and CWP.
Main Methods:
- Review of contemporary epidemiological data for FM and CWP.
- Presentation of evidence for neurobiological underpinnings.
- Discussion of predisposing, triggering, and maintaining factors.
Main Results:
- CWP affects approximately 10% of the population; FM affects approximately 4%.
- Centralized, non-nociceptive pain is a hallmark of FM, challenging misconceptions.
- Evidence of augmented central pain processing is observable through sensory testing and objective measures like neuroimaging.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the neurobiological basis of FM and CWP can enhance patient comprehension.
- Recognizing abnormalities in pain processing may reduce physician and patient frustration.
- Improved understanding can lead to better care experiences for individuals with chronic pain.