Correct Diagnosis is Key

Fibromyalgia is typically diagnosed in patients with widespread pain in all 4 quadrants of the body for a minimum of 3 months. The fibromyalgia patient may also have tenderness or pain in at least 11 out of 18 tender points when pressure is applied. These tender points cluster around the neck, shoulder, chest, hip, knee, and elbow regions.

Correct diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be elusive, so if you are diagnosed with the disorder, or suspect that you have it, seek the opinion of a provider who specializes in fibromyalgia. Other conditions may mimic fibromyalgia, such as chronic regional pain, chronic fatigue, and other disorders. Ruling out other disorders first is very important. In addition to clinical evaluation that will assess possible causes of your pain, your doctor may need to order lab tests to determine if you have: