On Saturday the National Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Association is sponsoring the National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day theme “Make Fibromyalgia Visible” in coordination with the Walk to CURE FM an element of the Campaign for Understanding, Research & Education of Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia  (FM) also known as fibromyalgia syndrome, fibromyositis, and fibrositis is one of the most common chronic pain conditions.  The disorder affects an estimated 10 million people in the U.S. and an estimated 3 to 6 percent of the world population.  While it occurs most often in women, it strikes men and children, and all ethnic backgrounds. For those with severe symptoms, FM can be extremely debilitating and interfere with basic daily activities.

FM is a complex pain disorder characterized by chronic widespread musculoskeletal aches, pain, and stiffness; multiple soft tissue tender points; abnormal pain processing; general fatigue and sleep disturbances; and psychological symptoms such as depression or anxiety.  Many people with FM also experience additional symptoms such as chronic fatigue, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bladder, cognitive and memory problems (often called “fibro fog”), temporomandibular joint disorder, pelvic pain, restless leg syndrome, sensitivity to noise and temperature, and anxiety and depression. These symptoms can vary in intensity and, like the pain of FM, wax and wane over time. There is no cure for FM at this time.  Symptoms can be treated with medication; non-drug treatments; and complementary/alternative therapies such as aquatic therapy, Tai Chi, yoga, massage, myofascial release, acupressure, and acupuncture.

Individuals with FM often face the stigma that comes from having an invisible disability and/or condition.  Break out the purple on Saturday, May 12^th to support and raise awareness for the millions who live with this condition every day!

For more information on Fibromyalgia Awareness Day and planned events/activities please visit http://www.nfmcpa.net/awareness-day.  For more information and a resource guide to creating your local FM Awareness Event:   NFMCPA Guide to Creating Local Fibromyalgia Awareness Events.