The first step in treatment is, as always, a correct diagnosis. Doctors specializing in rheumatology and physical medicine are the most knowledgeable about FMS, but many general practitioners and internists are becoming more familiar with it as well.
Diagnosis generally includes a tender point exam and lab tests to rule out other conditions.
There is no cure for FMS, so the goal of treatment is symptom management. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen tend to have limited results because FMS pain is not caused by inflammation. Tranquilizers, narcotic drugs and prescription sleeping pills should be avoided except in rare, limited circumstances. Beyond Medication Nondrug treatments tend to play an even bigger role in FMS management. Anything that reduces a patient's level of pain and improves the quality of sleep can be of significant help.