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Fibromyalgia syndrome: a review
D H Reiffenberger1, L H Amundson
1Brown Clinic, Watertown, South Dakota, USA.
American Family Physician
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition affecting more women, characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep issues. Treatment involves medication, exercise, and patient education for symptom relief.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pain Management
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) presents as chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, and tender points.
- Commonly associated symptoms include fatigue and sleep disturbances.
- FMS predominantly affects women, with a mean age of onset around 49 years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of fibromyalgia syndrome.
- To discuss differential diagnoses, including myofascial pain syndrome and chronic fatigue syndrome.
- To outline current understanding of fibromyalgia's multifactorial nature and treatment approaches.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of fibromyalgia syndrome.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and symptom presentation.
- Summary of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options.
Main Results:
- Fibromyalgia is a complex condition with no single treatment guideline.
- Tricyclic antidepressants are a potential pharmacologic therapy.
- Patient education, reassurance, and exercise are crucial non-pharmacologic interventions.
Conclusions:
- Fibromyalgia requires a multifactorial management approach.
- Integrated treatment strategies combining medication, education, and exercise are effective.
- Addressing symptoms like pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance is key to improving patient outcomes.