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What is it?
Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is characterised by long standing widespread body pain involving the
muscles, ligaments, tendons and surrounding structures without any obvious tissue damage. This complex
persistent pain syndrome may also be associated or overlap with other chronic conditions including arthritis,
Sjogren’s syndrome, Lupus, irritable bowel syndrome, cystitis, lower joint dysfunction, multiple chemical
sensitivities and chronic headaches.
How Common is FMS?
Studies estimate that between 2% and 10% of the general population (i.e.65,000 South Australians) have FMS.
It is two to five times more common than rheumatoid arthritis.
Whom does it effect?
FMS affects all ages including children, all nationalities, cultures and socioeconomic groups. As in many
painful conditions, such as arthritis, there is a higher prevalence of FMS in females.
Why does it occur?
Currently, the cause of FMS is unknown. Researchers have suggested
that FMS may be triggered by things such as viral illnesses, physical
or emotional trauma, stress and depression. However for many people
FMS develops gradually without any apparent cause.
The Symptoms
In clinical settings the most common symptoms of FMS include the following:
Pain - widespread migratory pain, may range from mild to severe, and may present in a variety of ways
such as aching, burning, throbbing or stabbing. May increase when performing normal activities.
Stiffness - usually worse in the mornings.
Sleep disturbance
Fatigue
Headaches
Some people with FMS may also have other symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, cystitis, swelling
and numbness or tingling in the arms and legs, intolerance to heat/cold, dry or itchy eyes etc.
Outlook
Medically, Fibromyalgia carries a fairly good prognosis. It does not cause joint deformity although the pain
and discomfort of Fibromyalgia can last for many years. Early intervention (starting as soon as possible) and
a tailored patient centred approach to management are important in reducing symptom severity, disability and
the total illness burden. Progress can be slow and should be maintained to achieve lasting benefits.
Diagnosis
Initially you will need to have a full assessment by your General Practitioner and possibly a referral to a
Fibromyalgia specialist and/or a Pain Clinic.
There are key signs that may assist the doctor in making diagnosis:
A history of widespread migratory pain for three months or longer
Abnormal tenderness in specific parts of the body
Blood tests, X-rays and other tests may be used to help exclude other conditions.
Integrated Management
Effective management of Fibromyalgia starts with a correct diagnosis. A management program should be
designed for each individual and be coordinated by a General Practitioner consistent with Australian
Medicare GP Plus, Allied Health integrated care planning funding arrangements.
Management includes an integrated combination of the following:
Education: one of the most important components of treatment. People with Fibromyalgia need to
understand their condition in order to actively participate in deciding an appropriate treatment plan for
their individual circumstances, goal setting and coping strategies.
Medication: in combination with other strategies, medication may be used to manage pain, reduce stress and promote
restorative sleep and prevent illness wind-up.
Sleep Management: it is important to investigate any sleep disturbances, to work towards restorative
sleep and to minimise the vicious cycle of pain and sleep disturbance leading to further illness wind-up.
Stress management: massage, relaxation and stress relief activities/techniques are essential. Some
people may need cognitive behaviour therapy to help them.
Exercise/Movement: a gentle exercise program can have multiple benefits for the person with Fibromyalgia
and can assist in the management of symptoms such as pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance. These include Tai Chi
and hydrotherapy classes. A personally tailored exercise program would be advisable with a full physical
assessment before commencement of any program.
Outcome Monitoring: patients should be encouraged to monitor their symptoms so they can better
communicate with their providers and provide valuable feedback.
Education
A better understanding of FMS will greatly assist you in making life style adjustments, developing life
skills and making decisions about the management of your condition.
The Arthritis Foundation of South Australia conducts self-management courses that will help you develop
the skills and knowledge needed to make these decisions. They also provide opportunities to meet others
in similar situations. Arthritis SA can also put you in touch with the Fibromyalgia SA educational programs,
local support groups, other relevant agencies and appropriate exercise groups for your condition.
The information presented is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health
care provider.
Other information and resources available from Arthritis SA
Fibromyalgia Fact Sheet
• Email: fibromyalgia@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your postal address in email)
Fibromylagia SA
For more information on the FMSA educational program click here "Branches &
Support Groups"
Telephone Advisory Service
9.30am - 3.30pm, Mon - Fri
8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
Fibromyaglia Specialist Advisors are available on Tuesday afternoons or by appointment.
Email: fibromyalgia@arthritissa.org.au
Library
A wide range of books on Fibromyalgia and condition related topics are available for loan at Arthritis House.
Members can also borrow other health related books, journals, videos and magazines from the library.
Borrowing privileges extend to members only
Book Sales
Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Clinical Case Definition and Guidelines for Medical Practitioners. An Overview of
the Canadian Consensus Document Bruce M Caruthers , M I van de Sande, 2006
The Patient’s Guide to … Fibromyalgia Take Charge using Proven Self-Management Strategies Bruce Campbell,
2006
The Fibromyalgia Relief Book Miryam Williamson, 1998
For price and order details please contact Arthritis SA
• 8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
• Email: info@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your name and business hours phone number in email)
Video & DVD Sales
• Email: info@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your name and business hours phone number in email)
Moving Towards Wellness Course
6 weeks x 2.5 hours
click here "Self Management
Courses" for further information
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