What is Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS)?

It is a clinical syndrome characterized by chronic, widespread, musculoskeletal pain with no discernable cause. Other symptoms may include: sleep disturbance, fatigue, stiffness while walking, headaches, memory and concentration difficulties, numbness and tingling, itching, fluid retention, and abdominal or pelvic pain.

In the United States and Canada, over 12 million people suffer from fibromyalgia. The cause of FMS is not well understood and the diagnosis of FMS is difficult due to other symptoms resembling other chronic pain conditions.

It is further complicated by the fact that fibromyalgia overlaps with other syndromes, especially chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic headaches and irritable bowel syndrome.

For further information about Fibromyalgia

• Fibromyalgia Network
• National Fibromyalgia Association
• ME-FM Action Network (Canada)
• FM-CFS Canada
• Pain Pathways