What is Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS)?

FMS is a complex condition defined by ongoing widespread body pain that affects various systems of the body. Estimates are that as many as 1 million Australians experience this chronic pain condition.

This multi-system condition varies because different people experience different symptoms, and even in the same person, symptoms can vary over time.

However, some of the symptoms which FMS patients commonly experience include:

• Irregular sleeping patterns and disturbances;

• Fatigue;

• Musculoskeletal and cognitive dysfunction;

• Stiffness.

FMS is also commonly associated with other chronic conditions, such as Arthritis, Sjogrens, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and chronic headaches.

As a multi-system condition, FMS management requires a range of strategies based on the four cornerstones:

• Education and the acquisition of self-management skills;

• Psychosocial and lifestyle adaptations;

• Physical therapies tailored to your current level of fitness and activities;

• Pharmacological (medicine for pain and sleep).

While there’s no single effective treatment, treatment outcomes are improved depending on how effectively you can incorporate lifestyle factors and reduce stress in your daily life.

Management of FMS is tailored to every one’s unique and different case, so it’s important to monitor your symptoms during various treatments and to keep an ongoing record and journal over time.

Just like diabetes, daily monitoring can aid treatment choices to alleviate pain and sleep and towards improving your symptoms and quality of life.

In Australia, most care is accessed through healthcare plans provided by your local GP. Your care plan will enable you to access affordable services.  

Educational programs are available to help you understand your condition, gain new skills, and empower you to work with your health care team.

For more information on management, please see and refer to the coming pages.