Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, as well as fatigue and trouble sleeping. It is a long-term disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system and amplifies painful sensations. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but researchers believe that certain factors may contribute to its development, such as genetics, physical or emotional events, and illnesses such as viral infections. Fibromyalgia tends to run in families, and some scientists believe that certain genes could make you more likely to develop it.
The primary symptoms of fibromyalgia include widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties, which are commonly referred to as "fibro fog". Other symptoms may include muscle and joint stiffness, tenderness to touch, numbness or tingling in the arms and legs, and problems with concentrating, thinking clearly, and memory. People with fibromyalgia may also experience depression, anxiety, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and sleep problems.
There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but doctors and other healthcare providers can help manage and treat the symptoms. Treatment typically involves a combination of exercise or other movement therapies, psychological and behavioral therapy, and medications. Complementary therapies such as massage therapy, movement therapies, chiropractic therapy, and acupuncture have also helped some people with the symptoms of fibromyalgia[[5]](https://medlineplus.gov/fib...