$Unique_ID{BRK00564}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What is the Difference Between Fibrositis and Fibromyalgia?}
$Subject{fibrositis muscle pain fibromyalgia}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is the Difference Between Fibrositis and Fibromyalgia?


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QUESTION:  My condition, fibrositis, still seems confusing to me and very
difficult to deal with.  Perhaps you can offer some new insight.  What is the
difference between it and fibromyalgia?  Are there any treatments that give
relief?  Please give me all the help you can.

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ANSWER:  A confusing disease indeed, even its name can cause confusion.
Fibrositis and fibromyalgia are the same disease (also know as Myofascial Pain
Syndrome).  The term fibromyalgia (meaning; muscle pain) is now preferred, for
there is no inflammatory process ("itis") seen in this syndrome.  It is
classified as a rheumatic disorder that can cause pain, tenderness and
stiffness in muscles and tendons at specific "trigger points" that are
distributed over the back of the neck and shoulders, the sides of the breast
bone and the bony points of the elbows and hips.  In addition the are a whole
flock of nonrheumatic symptoms to complicate the patient's life; poor sleep,
anxiety, fatigue and even irritable bowel symptoms.  While this confusing
syndrome makes accurate studies hard to find, it is estimated that as many as
10 million Americans may suffer from the condition.  It is most common in
women, and occurs between the ages of 35 and 60.  Since there is no cure, I
can list the types of treatment that may offer you some relief, over and above
the use of analgesics such as aspirin or NSAID's such as ibuprofen.  They
include both ice packs and heat treatments, relaxation techniques, stress
management, biofeedback and stretching exercises.  Low doses of tricyclics
drugs at bedtime may help sleep problems and reduce pain.  A tender point may
be injected locally with a 1% lidocaine solution in combination with a 40 mg
hydrocortisone acetate suspension.  Your prognosis may be favorable utilizing
a comprehensive, supportive program along with your physicians advice.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
