Can you be diagnoised with fibromyalgia by a doctor pushing on in certain spots?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, tenderness, and fatigue. While there is no single test that can definitively diagnose fibromyalgia, doctors may use a combination of factors, including a physical exam, medical history, and blood tests, to make a diagnosis.

During a physical exam, a doctor may apply pressure to certain points on the body, known as tender points, to assess pain and tenderness. However, the presence of tender points alone is not enough to diagnose fibromyalgia. Other symptoms, such as widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, must also be present.

Blood tests may be performed to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may also be ordered to rule out other potential causes of pain.

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be complex and may require a referral to a rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions.