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The majority of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia are female, and the female to male ratio is 8:1. Research has shown that women with fibromyalgia have a lower pain tolerance and more symptoms than men. In addition, the symptoms typically begin when the patient is in his or her 30s, and all ethnic groups and cultures are affected.

Scientists are unsure about the exact cause of fibromyalgia, but they do know that overactive nerves play a role in the pain associated with the condition. Many researchers believe that the pain is due to central sensitization, which means the problem occurs due to the central nervous system’s exaggerated response to the pain. In addition, emotional and physical stress tends to make fibromyalgia worse.

According to the American College of Rheumatology’s guidelines, fibromyalgia is a diagnosis made based on symptoms and physical examination. A new blood test (the FMa) is available, but no reliable studies exist to support its accuracy or usage. Many doctors will make the diagnosis after other painful conditions are ruled out.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia include mild to severe pain, aching joints, tender points on the body, fatigue, muscle spasms, stiffness, trouble sleeping, and depression. These symptoms typically worsen when the patient is under stress or with extreme weather conditions.

The treatment of fibromyalgia depends on the severity of the pain and the associated symptoms. Options available are:

Medications - The FDA has approved a few drugs for fibromyalgia. These include Cymbalta, Savella, Lyrica, Elavil, Flexiril, and Effexor. The doctor may prescribe non-narcotic analgesics for pain relief as well.

Physical therapy - To keep muscles active and relieve tender point pain, the doctor may recommend a physical therapy program. The therapist can use several treatment modalities for the pain, including massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy.

Trigger point injections (TPIs) - For patients with increased pain sensitivity, the doctor may insert the tender points with a local anesthetic. The needle inserted into the muscle and tissue will inactivate the trigger point and relieve pain. Many clinical studies show that TPIs are 98% effective for treating fibromyalgia, and in a recent study, participants reported reduced pain sensitivity following lidocaine injections.

Botox injections - One new approach for fibromyalgia pain treatment is injection of botulinum toxin (Botox) into the tender points and painful muscle regions. This solution paralyzes the muscle, to reduce tension and relieve pain. Botox for fibromyalgia was found to improve functional ability in a recent research study.