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Fibromyalgia. Part II. Prevalence in the podiatric patient population
1Department of Podiatric Medicine, California College of Podiatric Medicine, San Francisco 94115.
Summary
Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, may be more common in podiatric patients than previously thought. This study found 8 of 355 patients had fibromyalgia, particularly those with foot pain.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Rheumatology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain disorder.
- Its prevalence in specific patient populations, like those seeking podiatric care, is not well-established.
- Foot pain is a common complaint in podiatric clinics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of fibromyalgia in patients attending a podiatric outpatient clinic.
- To assess the association between foot pain and fibromyalgia diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- A consecutive series of 355 patients in a podiatric clinic were evaluated.
- Diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia were applied.
- Patients presenting with plantar heel or arch pain were specifically analyzed.
Main Results:
- Eight out of 355 patients (2.25%) were diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
- Thirty-five patients presented with plantar heel or arch pain.
- Seven of these 35 patients (20%) with foot pain also met fibromyalgia criteria.
Conclusions:
- Fibromyalgia may be more prevalent in the podiatric patient population than previously recognized.
- Clinicians should consider fibromyalgia in patients with foot pain, especially plantar heel or arch pain.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore the relationship between fibromyalgia and foot conditions.