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Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor will check for tender (trigger) points of pain in the body. These points are located around the neck, shoulder, chest, hip, knee, and elbow. Most healthy people have only a few tender points. People with fibromyalgia may have 11 or more when touched.

Blood tests may be done to look for other causes of the symptoms. This is because fibromyalgia is hard to diagnose. Many of the symptoms are like other health problems.

References

  • Fibromyalgia. American College of Rheumatology website. Available at: https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Fibromyalgia.
  • Fibromyalgia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/fibromyalgia.
  • Fibromyalgia. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia.
  • Macfarlane GJ, Kronisch C, et al. EULAR revised recommendations for the management of fibromyalgia. Ann Rheum Dis. 2017 Feb;76(2):318-328.

Contributors

  • James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2022-12-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.