Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition affecting the muscles, tendons and ligaments. The overall result of this is widespread pain and increased sensitivity to pain, sore points where there is little flesh over the bone (such as elbows and feet), and extreme tiredness.

This condition used to be known as fibrositis, which literally means inflammation of the muscles and soft tissue. When, however, studies confirmed that there is no particular inflammation existent within the condition, it was renamed fibromyalgia in 1976. Fibromyalgia means literally: 'pain in fibrous tissue.' There is some conjecture that this and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome might be one and the same illness, or part of the same illness. It is most common in females over 40, though males and children can also suffer from it.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromalgia has many symptoms, including:

• Pain anywhere in, or all over, the body
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Extreme fatigue
• Sleeping problems
• Extreme sensitivity to touch
• Muscle stiffness
• Memory and concentration problems, sometimes referred to as 'fibro-fog'
• Headaches
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Dry skin, eyes and mouth

Any or all of the above symptoms can go into remission for long periods then quite suddenly 'flare' to an incapacitating level. They are exacerbated by stress and, fact, therapies that are aimed at reducing overall stress levels can be extremelyn effective in controlling the condition when need arises. As yet, there is no known cure, though it is generally considered to be a non-progressive illness and some people have been known to have only one incidence of it, remaining free from symptoms once they have subsided.

There has been considerable research into the illness - research which is still ongoing - and there are many hypotheses as to the cauese. These range from toxins in the individual's environment, through genetic/biological disposition, psychology, viral infections, growth hormone deficiencies, to some form or auto-immune disease.

One of the most studied, and controversial, research issues is whether Fibromyalgia is a 'psychiatric illness'. A sufferer would rebel against any suggestion that the symptoms were 'all in the mind' but this is not necessarily what is meant. The symptoms are undoubetedly real but the illness might be psychogenic - that is, created by an effect of the psychology upon the body. This is not the same thing as a psychosomatic illness, in which the symptoms are imaginary.

Suitable Treatments
There are many treatments available for this condition, though what works for one person does not necessarily do much for another. Medication might include painkillers, antidepressants, central nervous system stimulants, anti seizure drugs, muscle relaxants and others

Physical therapies such as massage and low impact exercise have been shows to be of benefit, as have massage and whirlpool treatment. Some sufferers have reported that Cannabis has provided considerable relief of symptoms.

There are also many complementary disciplines which can proved help (see panel on the left) but always be sure to consult with your Doctor or other health professional before embarking on any course of complementary medicine.

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