There are no blood tests or x-rays which show abnormalities diagnostic of FMS. This initially led many doctors to consider the problems suffered by FMS patients were all "in their heads" or that fibromyalgia syndrome patients had a form of masked depression or hypochondriasis.

Extensive psychological tests have shown these impressions were unfounded. A physician's diagnosis of FMS is based on taking a careful history and the finding of tender areas in specific areas of muscle. These locations are called "tender points" or "trigger points". They are tender to palpation and often feel somewhat hardened if the muscle is stroked. Frequently, pressure over one of these areas will cause pain in a more peripheral distribution, hence the term trigger point.

Written by: Robert Bennett, M.D.
Oregon Health Sciences University

	What is Fibromyalgia Syndrome and what are the symptoms?		What research is being conducted on Fibromyalgia Syndrome?
	How will my doctor diagnose Fibromyalgia Syndrome?		Vitamins & supplements for Fibromyalgia Syndrome?
	How common is Fibromyalgia Syndrome?		Fibromyalgia Syndrome disability issues.
	Is Fibromyalgia contagious?		Tips on living with Fibromyalgia Syndrome.
	What treatments are available for Fibromyalgia Syndrome?		Return to FMS Information Resource Guide Index.