Pain in Tender Point Sites

To accurately diagnose Fibromyalgia, a doctor familiar with Fibromyalgia will perform a tender point test. (If you can't find a doctor near you, contact the Arthritis Foundation and they can refer you.) These 18 tender points are shown in the graphic below.

The doctor will apply pressure with an approximate force of 4kg. If the patient has pain in 11 of these 18 tender points in combination with meeting other diagnosis criteria, then the doctor may diagnose Fibromyalgia.

Tender Points

1. Lower neck in front (2)
2. Edge of upper breast bone (2)
3. 2 cms below side bone at elbow (2)
4. Just above knee on inside (2)
5. Attachment of neck muscles at the base of the skull (2)
6. Midway between neck and shoulder (2)
7. Muscle over upper inner shoulder (2)
8. Upper outer buttock (2)
9. Hip bone (2)

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