Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory issues, and mood changes. It affects millions worldwide, including a significant number in India, though exact prevalence data can vary.

Individuals with Fibromyalgia may experience varying levels of pain sensitivity, affecting their quality of life and daily functioning. Early diagnosis is essential to initiate appropriate management strategies and improve outcomes.

If you or someone you know experiences widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties that persist despite self-care measures, it’s crucial to consult a doctor specialised in managing chronic pain conditions.

Our orthopaedic team is committed to providing compassionate care and personalised treatment plans to help individuals manage Fibromyalgia symptoms effectively and regain quality of life.

The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

1. Central Sensitization: One of the leading theories is central sensitization, which suggests that people with fibromyalgia have a heightened sensitivity to pain due to changes in the central nervous system. This means that their brains and spinal cords process pain signals differently, amplifying normal pain sensations. Factors contributing to central sensitization include genetics, neurotransmitter imbalances, and prolonged exposure to stress or trauma.

2. Genetic Predisposition: There is evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in the development of fibromyalgia. It tends to run in families, indicating that certain genetic mutations or variations may increase the susceptibility to the condition. Researchers have identified several genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia, particularly those involved in the transmission and regulation of pain signals.

3. Infections and Illnesses: Certain infections and illnesses can trigger or exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. For example, viral infections like the flu, Epstein-Barr virus, or hepatitis can lead to the onset of fibromyalgia in some individuals. Additionally, other chronic illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus have been linked to a higher incidence of fibromyalgia, suggesting that the body’s response to illness can sometimes lead to the development of the condition.

4. Physical or Emotional Trauma: Physical or emotional trauma is another significant factor that can trigger fibromyalgia. This includes injuries from accidents, surgeries, or significant psychological stress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma can lead to changes in the way the brain processes pain, potentially resulting in the chronic pain and heightened sensitivity associated with fibromyalgia.

5. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving hormones that regulate stress and pain responses, have been implicated in fibromyalgia. Abnormal levels of cortisol, serotonin, and norepinephrine can affect the body’s ability to handle stress and pain, contributing to the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These imbalances can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress.

6. Sleep Disturbances: Sleep disturbances are both a symptom and a potential cause of fibromyalgia. Poor sleep quality and sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, are common in individuals with fibromyalgia. Lack of restorative sleep can exacerbate pain sensitivity and fatigue, creating a vicious cycle where pain disrupts sleep, and poor sleep intensifies pain.

7. Psychological Factors: Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and chronic stress are commonly associated with fibromyalgia. While these factors are not direct causes, they can significantly impact the perception of pain and the overall severity of symptoms. Managing these psychological factors through therapy and medication can be an essential part of treating fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is characterised by a wide range of symptoms that can vary in intensity and fluctuate over time. The hallmark symptom is chronic widespread pain, typically affecting both sides of the body and including areas such as the neck, shoulders, back, and hips. However, there are several other common symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia:

1. Widespread Pain: The primary symptom is persistent, dull, or stabbing pain that can affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments throughout the body. Pain may be exacerbated by physical activity, weather changes, stress, or lack of sleep.

2. Fatigue: Many individuals with Fibromyalgia experience profound fatigue, despite getting adequate sleep. This fatigue is often described as overwhelming and can interfere with daily activities and responsibilities.

3. Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems are prevalent in Fibromyalgia, including difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently during the night, or waking up feeling unrefreshed. This contributes to daytime fatigue and worsens overall symptoms.

4. Cognitive Difficulties: Often referred to as “fibro fog,” cognitive symptoms include difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and problems with word retrieval. These cognitive impairments can impact work, social interactions, and daily tasks.

5. Stiffness and Tenderness: Patients may experience morning stiffness or stiffness after prolonged periods of inactivity. There may also be areas of tenderness known as tender points, though this criterion is less emphasised in modern diagnostic criteria.

6. Mood Disorders: Depression and anxiety are commonly associated with Fibromyalgia. The chronic pain and fatigue can contribute to feelings of sadness, frustration, or hopelessness, affecting overall emotional well-being.

7. Other Symptoms: Additional symptoms may include headaches, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), sensitivity to temperature or noise, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, and pelvic pain.

It’s important to note that Fibromyalgia symptoms can overlap with those of other conditions, which underscores the need for a comprehensive medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.