Fibromyalgia (FM) is the name given to a particular group of symptoms. It is a chronic pain syndrome and is sometimes called Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS). Fibromyalgia is a common condition. It is estimated that between 2% and up to 10% of people have it. It is more common in adult women but men and teenagers can have this. Also Familial links have been known, although more research into Familial links are still being carried out.   

The common symptoms are widespread muscle pain, above and below the waist and on both sides of the body, together with stiffness and debilitating tiredness. The condition can give tender points throughout the body joint areas, which hurt when pressed. Pain is often felt in the neck, shoulders, back and hips. The pain is not caused by damage to the muscles. There is often increased sensitivity to normal things such as light touch, draughts, or clothing, which is felt as pain.

Sleep disturbance is characteristic of the condition. Sleep is un-refreshing and there is muscle stiffness on waking often lasting for many hours. Depression is common in Fibromyalgia.

Other symptoms are common such as headaches, irritable bowel, restless legs (with numbness, tingling, or itching) and intolerance of cold. The condition can be disabling and affects all aspects of peoples lives including being unable to function normally or to work.

Treatment - Mostly it is pain Control and Exercise to increase the energy levels in the sufferer, but most of us who suffer with the condition, couldnt do energetic exercise, as we would be 'suffering with the flare up of the condition' for a while afterwards. Although light exercises are good to keep us active in a way that is manageable to our condition. Find a light exercise program that suits you and keep at it. There are GP referral Exercise programs available, it consists usually of a 16 week program on a day per week or more if you wish. Talk to your GP or Specialist with regards to these programs that may be offered in your area.

I enjoyed the PACE (Neath Port Talbot Program), and I really enjoyed it, and it gave me a boost, but also I got to meet others who had a chronic pain condition, and we all supported one another and became friends. So it does have other benefits to attending an exercise program.