What Is the Difference Between Arthritis & Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia and arthritis share many common characteristics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classifies fibromyalgia as a type of arthritis, but there are some differences between it and the more common types of arthritis.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a term used to describe approximately 100 different rheumatic conditions affecting connective tissues and areas around joints. Arthritis is most commonly defined as inflammation of the joints.

Types

The two most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both cause inflammation and pain in specific joints, such as knees and fingers.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a medical condition known for its tendency to cause muscle pain and exhaustion and is most often diagnosed in middle-aged women. Fibromyalgia may also cause headaches, memory problems, numbness of the extremities and general muscle stiffness.

Cause

The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, and there are no specific diagnostic tests to accurately define the presence of this condition. Diagnosis is usually made after ruling out many other conditions.

Treatment

Although there is no cure for fibromyalgia, many patients respond well to treatments used for other types of arthritis. Exercise and weight loss can decrease pain, and many people find relief when taking certain types of medication, including anti-inflammatory drugs and biological agents.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Arthritis Types
• MedlinePlus: Arthritis

Resources

• Arthritis Foundation