Pediatric Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread, chronic muscle pain and fatigue. The cause of the condition is unknown. The disorder mostly affects adults, but it may be found in children, usually in their teenage years. Pediatric fibromyalgia typically affects children with at least one parent who also has the condition.

Symptoms

• In addition to muscle pain and fatigue, children may experience other symptoms, such as anxiety, headaches, depression, insomnia and abdominal distress.

Triggers

• Emotional, physical or additional stress may trigger or increase symptoms. For example, a traumatic event may intensify the symptoms. Children who overexert themselves in exercise or activities may experience an increase fibromyalgia symptoms.

Diagnosis

• There is no blood test for diagnosis of fibromyalgia, but physicians use blood tests and others to rule out other conditions. Physicians conduct a physical examination by applying pressure to known tender points. If a child has the majority of the tender points, he or she may suffer from fibromyalgia.

Medications

• The prescription medications duloxetine and pregabalin, along with anti-inflammatory medications, are used in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Other prescription drugs may be used to relieve accompanying symptoms.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy may help a child manage the symptoms and understand the condition. Such therapy includes relaxation techniques and keeping a diary.

Controlling Symptoms

• Fibromyalgia can affect a child for months at time followed by a symptom-free period. Children may manage their symptoms with yoga or light stretching. High-impact exercise such as running and contact sports should be avoided, but low-impact exercise such as walking or riding a bike for 30 minutes a day helps keep muscles limber.