Fibromyalgia Compensation

Pain in the soft fibrous tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often likened to flu-like symptoms of widespread aching, but with a constant and unrelenting character, defines the condition.

In addition to pain, our clients commonly report symptoms such as:

• Extreme sensitivity
• Stiffness
• Fatigue
• Poor (non-restorative) sleep
• Cognitive problems
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Dizziness
• Anxiety
• Depression

It is now widely accepted that fibromyalgia is one of a number of conditions resulting from central sensitisation. Indeed, many of our clients with fibromyalgia are additionally suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome, which also results from central sensitisation.

Fibromyalgia may develop spontaneously (primary fibromyalgia) or as a result of physical trauma such as that experienced in a road traffic accident (post-traumatic fibromyalgia).

However, it can also arise from a viral infection, surgery, or psychological factors such as work-related stress, bereavement, or relationship breakdown. Interestingly, in some cases, the condition occurs without any obvious or identifiable trigger.

Studies indicate that women are seven times more likely to develop the condition than men, with the most common age range being between 30 and 50 years old. However, there are many cases of children developing fibromyalgia.

Fortunately, times have changed, and in the UK, the government recognises fibromyalgia as a genuine, disabling medical condition. Indeed, in recent years, they have allocated substantial financial resources to researching the condition.

The NHS has published detailed notes on its website, offering comprehensive information for those seeking to learn more.

The DWP also recognises fibromyalgia as a genuine medical condition and, at least in principle, regards those diagnosed with it as truly disabled. In practice, individuals suffering from fibromyalgia often find it difficult to access or maintain their benefits.

The symptoms vary greatly, and misdiagnosis is quite common because these symptoms often appear similar to those of other conditions such as:

• hyperthyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland);
• chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or ME); and
• rheumatoid arthritis.

If the doctor suspects fibromyalgia, then, as it is mainly diagnosed by ruling out other conditions, blood and urine samples are routinely taken and tested. Confusingly, however, patients with these conditions often also suffer from fibromyalgia.

According to the NHS, the primary criteria used for diagnosing fibromyalgia are:

• The presence of severe pain in 3 to 6 different areas or milder pain in 7 or more different areas;
• Persistence of symptoms at a more or less constant and similar level for at least 3 months;
• No other explanation for the persistence of these symptoms is identified.

The Royal College of Physicians has now published diagnostic guidelines for fibromyalgia.

• Medication including painkillers, anticonvulsants, sleeping medication, muscle relaxants and antidepressants.
• Vitamins B9 (Folic Acid) and B12 – research has demonstrated that the benefits of taking folic acid in conjunction with vitamin B12 are particularly beneficial to those diagnosed as suffering from both chronic fatigue syndrome (ME) and fibromyalgia. It was also found that higher doses of these supplements lead to a greater reduction in symptoms.
• Pain management programmes and lifestyle changes – the idea behind them is to turn existing with chronic pain into living with chronic pain.
• Therapy, typically Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, addresses the psychological aspects of the condition.
• Sleep Hygeine.
• Alternative Therapies – as with so many aspects of fibromyalgia, finding what works for you really is a case of trial and error. Common therapies that people report as being beneficial are physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture and reflexology.

With the help of medication and therapies, many people can manage some of their symptoms, leading to increased functioning and a better quality of life. Sufferers are often encouraged to continue working and engage in regular exercise, despite how challenging this may be. Self-management plays a significant role in fibromyalgia treatment, and ‘pacing’ is essential, whereby the sufferer learns to work within their limitations to reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

Others suggest consuming Omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts and fatty fish such as salmon. Many fruits and vegetables are high in essential antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which combat free radicals to maintain health and balance. Some research indicates that a vegetarian or vegan diet may alleviate symptoms of fibromyalgia, but the evidence remains inconclusive.

However, substances to avoid include food additives such as monosodium glutamate and artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which is thought to potentially increase sensitivity to pain. Additionally, limit or avoid caffeine, as lack of restful sleep is a common feature of fibromyalgia.