The pain is real!

Fibromyalgia tender points, also known as trigger points, are specific areas on the body that are sensitive to pressure and are often associated with pain in individuals with fibromyalgia. These tender points are a hallmark feature of fibromyalgia and are used as part of the diagnostic criteria.

In the past, there were 18 designated tender points on the body that were used for diagnosis, but in 2010, the American College of Rheumatology updated the diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia. Instead of relying solely on tender points, they now emphasize the widespread and chronic nature of pain as the primary diagnostic criteria. However, tender points are still used as a helpful tool in assessing fibromyalgia.

These tender points are typically located at specific anatomical sites, and applying pressure to these areas can cause significant pain or discomfort in individuals with fibromyalgia. Some of the common locations for these tender points include:

1. Neck: At the base of the skull, just above the hairline.
2. Shoulders: On the inner edge of the shoulder blade.
3. Chest: Near the second rib.
4. Elbows: On the inside of the elbow joint.
5. Hips: On the outer aspect of the upper buttocks.
6. Knees: On the inside of the knee joint.

It’s important to note that fibromyalgia is a complex and often misunderstood condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. While tender points can be a useful clinical tool, diagnosis should not solely rely on their presence. A healthcare professional should consider other factors, such as the duration of symptoms and the exclusion of other possible causes of pain, when diagnosing fibromyalgia. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and therapy to manage the pain and improve the patient’s quality of life.