Fibromyalgia Tender Points, a clear Fibromyalgia Symptom, seems to be the only uniform indicator in the effort to diagnosis Fibromyalgia. There are many symptoms, but fibromyalgia tender points are the only confirmed symptom.  There are 18 tender points or Fibromyalgia trigger points on the body that are highly sensitive to pressure. Sometimes even the slightest pressure feels like sharp knives.

At the present time, these 18 Fibromyalgia Tender Points are checked first to help diagnosis Fibromyalgia.  If 11 of the tender points create pain when pressure is applied, then it meets the criteria to be considered Fibromyalgia by the American College of Rheumatology and the National Fibromyalgia Association.  Recent fibromyalgia research suggest there can be as many as 75 other tender points.

How Large Is A Fibromalgia Tender Point?

The sites of fibro pain are usually very small. They can vary from the size of a penny to the size of quarter. Some fibromyalgia tender point sites may be more painful than other tender points on the body.  Applying pressure to the tender points with a finger can cause mild pain or may actually cause the individual to flinch or pull back.  I’ve been know to yelp!

Along with the Fibromyalgia tender points, if other symptoms are apparent, the chances of having Chronic Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fibromyalgia Fatigue Syndrome are pretty substantial.

Where Are The Fibromyalgia Trigger Points

The are 8 fibromyalgia tender points  on the front of the body. They are located on lower neck, on the chest, arms and knees. The 10 points on the back of the body are on the lower neck, upper back, below the waist near the hips and on the upper legs.  For some reason,  I have several other tender points that are not on the standard fibromyalgia tender point list.  I understand that this phenomenon is not uncommon.  And, for some reason, these seem to be the most painful for me.

How Important Are The Fibromyalgia Tender Points When Diagnosing Fibromyalgia Syndrome?

There is no absolute fibromyalgia test.  Since there are no blood or fluid tests to determine if you have Fibromyalgia Syndrome,  applying pressure to the tender points will probably be your doctors first assessment. You will need to tell him exactly the intensity of the pain when pressure is applied.

You will need to tell your doctor if you are suffering from any other fibromyalgia signs, such as over all muscle pain, skin sensitivity, sleep problems, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue or any other discomfort you are experiencing.  You will want to received the best treatment of fibromyalgia experts can offer.

I’ve had all many these fibro symptoms by varying degrees at one time or another.  The important thing to remember is that you will have two or more of these fibromyalgia signs at the same time…. the main fibromyalgia symptom being Fibromyalgia Tender Points or trigger points. If all of the symptoms remain for a period of three months or more, it’s a pretty safe bet you have Fibromyalgia.

Linda

P.S.  Living with Fibromyalgia can be mastered!

P.S.S.  If  you want your own copy of the Fibromyalgia Tender Points, click here to download your free copy. A little gift of convenience from me.