Clarence Abrahamson's Page

Hi Clarence,
Glad to get your reply. I can see why you are confused about the diagnosis. I can also see why you would want to be sure there is not another contributor to you problems considering the cancer and the hormone treatments. There several comments I can make on different aspects of your story which may or may not be helpful.

First of all, many, many patients are confused by the tender point issue. In my experience, many other patients do not have them as well. It seems to me that it is more common for us to have myofascial trigger points. You can have one or both. This leads to a lot of confusion. Most medical doctors aren't familiar with the differences. To test for fibromyalgia, they usually only test for tender points which uses only light pressure. Some of us have them. Whether we do or not, usually we do have Trigger Points. These are not part of the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Yet, many of us have severe problems from them. They are considered a co-morbid condition. These are found differently and are not usually checked for in the doctor's office. They are often missed with light pressure. You need to palpate the exact place where they are and apply the right amount of pressure. Often our muscles are in a "guarding" state of tension to protect the area. You need to realize this to find the right spot and get past the guarding.

I am curious as to whether the tender point part of the diagnosis will hold up in the end as necessary. While many of us have this problem, many of us feel that our pain is more similar to trigger points or just all over achiness. We do not feel pain on the exam given with light pressure to certain spots. Plus this can vary from day today and in different stages of the illness.

I've got more to say about your issues, but I have to go do some things right now. Also this only allows me a certain amount of space and I am quite verbose. Finish this as soon as I get a chance.

Hi Clarence,
Thanks for your reply on my support group question. I am curious about your symptoms and why you are unsure if you have CFS and FM. The diagnostic criteria can be a little misleading at times in my opinion. It can be confusing. Also, it can be frustrating if a doctor decides that you have that and never thoroughly looks for additional problems that could explain symptoms and for co-morbid conditions that can be part of the experience.
Glad to have you on here. I hope you get the support and answers you need.