Many patients are labeled with fibromyalgia simply because they have chronic soft tissue pain. But it is important, at least for the sake of correctness, that not all chronic soft tissue pain be called fibromyalgia.
In fact, localized or regional pain is often due to myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), a rather common condition which affects certain muscle areas. MPS is often present in the fibromyalgia patient, but not all MPS patients also suffer from fibromyalgia.
MPS generally involves pain in the neck, shoulders, hips, back, jaw and head. This pain is often accompanied by stiffness or tightness. It is important that the doctor listen to the patient to learn where the pain is most intense. And because MPS is not diagnosed with a lab test or x-ray, it is important that the doctor carefully examine the patient.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
Many people are diagnosed with fibromyalgia after reporting symptoms of chronic pain, however, it’s safe to say that not all widespread pain could indicate the presence of this painful condition. In fact, myofascial pain syndrome is another condition, frequently misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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