Usually starting at the neck and shoulders and spreading to other parts of the body over time, the pain varies according to the time of day, weather, sleep patterns, and stress level. People with FMS experience extreme tenderness when pressure is applied to the knees, thighs, hips, elbows, and neck. Approximately 90 percent of people with FMS experience fatigue and exhaustion. Although most patients are diagnosed during their 20s or 30s, FMS is seen in people of all ages. Recent studies have shown that FMS occurs worldwide and has no specific ethnic predisposition.
Doctors treat FMS by alleviating symptoms.
Due to severe sleep disruptions, people with FMS are usually treated with medications to improve sleep and reduce pain perception. In addition, other medications, exercise and physical therapy programs, and relaxation and stress management techniques are used to alleviate symptoms. Limitations will vary among individuals. Also note that not all people who have FMS will need accommodations to perform their jobs and many others may need only a few accommodations. The following is only a sample of the possibilities available.