Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory difficulties, and emotional symptoms. It is considered a disorder of pain processing in the nervous system, where the brain and spinal cord amplify pain signals.¹²

Fibromyalgia is not a degenerative or inflammatory joint disease, but it can significantly affect quality of life, daily functioning, and emotional well-being. Symptoms often fluctuate over time and may worsen during periods of stress, poor sleep, or physical exertion.³

Common Symptoms and Signs:

Symptoms vary in severity and may change over time.

Core Symptoms

Widespread musculoskeletal pain
Tender points or heightened pain sensitivity
Fatigue that is not relieved by rest
Sleep disturbances (non-restorative sleep)

Cognitive Symptoms (“Fibro Fog”)

Difficulty concentrating
Memory problems
Slowed thinking
Trouble multitasking

Neurological and Sensory Symptoms

Headaches or migraines
Tingling or numbness
Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or temperature

Emotional Symptoms

Anxiety
Depression
Mood swings
Irritability

Other Common Symptoms

Digestive issues (bloating, IBS-like symptoms)
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Dizziness
Restless sleep⁵⁶

Common Stressors:

Emotional Stressors

Psychological stress is a well-known factor that can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.

Chronic Stress

Long-term stress may increase pain sensitivity and fatigue through nervous system dysregulation.

Trauma History

Physical or emotional trauma has been associated with increased risk or symptom severity in some individuals.

Anxiety and Depression

These conditions commonly coexist with fibromyalgia and may intensify pain perception and fatigue.

Workplace Stress

High workloads
Burnout
Job insecurity
Poor work-life balance

Relationship Stress

Family conflict
Social isolation
Caregiving responsibilities
Emotional strain

Major Life Events

Financial stress
Loss of a loved one
Divorce or separation
Major transitions⁷⁸

Stress may amplify nervous system sensitivity, contributing to flare-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are having these issues, please make an appointment to talk about your options, complete some test, and then we will develop a plan to fit you.

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Resources:

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) – Fibromyalgia
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Fibromyalgia Information
Mayo Clinic – Fibromyalgia Symptoms and Causes
MedlinePlus – Fibromyalgia
Cleveland Clinic – Fibromyalgia Overview
American College of Rheumatology – Fibromyalgia Information
American Psychological Association – Stress Effects on the Body
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Stress and Mental Health
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Sleep and Pain Research
CDC – Physical Activity and Chronic Conditions
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – Nutrition and Chronic Pain
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Metabolic Health
World Health Organization – Environmental Health
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Environmental Health Topics
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) – Managing Fibromyalgia