Fibromyalgia
A chronic pain condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties. Now classified as a nociplastic pain condition, meaning pain originates from altered central nervous system processing rather than tissue damage.
Overview
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition now understood as a nociplastic pain disorder, meaning pain is generated by altered central nervous system processing rather than tissue damage.
Detailed Description
Fibromyalgia involves widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties (often called 'fibro fog'). The condition is now classified as a nociplastic pain condition, meaning the pain is real but originates from how the central nervous system processes pain signals, not from damage to muscles, joints, or nerves. Research shows that fibromyalgia frequently co-occurs with ADHD, autism, and conditions involving autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
How This Relates to ADHD
Research suggests that ADHD, autism, and fibromyalgia may share overlapping nervous system mechanisms involving sensory processing, autonomic regulation, and pain modulation. Individuals with ADHD report higher rates of chronic pain conditions, and attentional difficulties may precede chronic pain development in some cases.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for fibromyalgia often includes medications (antidepressants, anticonvulsants, pain medications), physical therapy, exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management, and approaches that support nervous system regulation. Understanding the connection to ADHD and autonomic regulation can inform more holistic treatment approaches.
Examples
- •Widespread pain that persists for months
- •Often co-occurs with ADHD, autism, and autonomic nervous system dysregulation
Resources
If you experience chronic pain alongside ADHD symptoms, discuss both with your healthcare provider. Learn more about the connections between ADHD, autism, and fibromyalgia in our blog articles.
Take Action
Understanding Fibromyalgia is just the beginning. Take our free ADHD assessment or explore diagnosis options in your area.
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