Fibromyalgia
A condition of widespread pain, fatigue and heightened pain sensitivity.
Overview
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition characterised by widespread pain, fatigue, poor sleep and heightened sensitivity of the nervous system. Management is multidisciplinary, with graded exercise, education and lifestyle strategies central to improving function.
Symptoms
- Widespread pain across the body
- Persistent fatigue and unrefreshing sleep
- Difficulty with concentration ('fibro fog')
- Heightened sensitivity to pain and stimuli
Causes
- Altered pain processing in the nervous system
- Triggers such as stress, illness or injury
- Genetic and lifestyle factors
Treatment
- Education and pain-science understanding
- Graded, paced exercise
- Sleep and stress management
- Multidisciplinary support