Fibro = Fibrous Tissues, tendons & ligaments. My= Muscle. Algia = Pain.
Fibromyalgia is a complex and multifaceted syndrome causing chronic pain. It involves both widespread myalgia (muscle pain) and localized pain in specific areas, particularly in the muscles around the joints. The musculoskeletal symptoms include pain, stiffness and tenderness. Pain commonly occurs in the neck, back, shoulders, pelvis, hands & legs. The vast majority of the individuals affected are women. Fibromyalgia also affects men & children.
Contrary to popular belief, it is a disorder of muscles, not of joints. Though pain is the main component of this condition, fibromyalgia may also involve fatigue, sleep disturbances and mood disturbances, such as depression and anxiety. The condition is episodic, with flare-ups that vary in intensity and come and go over time. A full list of symptoms below:
Some Fibromyalgia sufferers do not suffer from all of the above symtoms.