Fibrositis

8 2 • THE COMPLETE FAMILY.GUIDE TO ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 

Fibrositis is a painful condition that is characterized by widespread pain with multiple tight and tender spots in the muscles. These are felt as cordlike fibers of muscle in the surrounding, relaxed musculature. Symptoms include pain, fatigue, stiffness, sleep disturbances, an irritable bowel, muscle twitching, frecp.ient urination. premenstrual syndrome. headaches, anxiety, mood swings. poor concentration and memory, and balance problems, among others. The condition appears to be exacerbated by damp weather, intense activity, and stress. Sufferers are predominantly female Caucasians, and the severity (in this case, the number of tender spots on the muscles) increases with age. The Cause is largely unknown, although it is thought to be related to allergies, chemical sensitivities, and toxicity, as well as an individual's stress and anxiety.