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Module Summary

Consultant rheumatologist Dr Selwyn Richards answers GP Dr Mandy Fry's queries on fibromyalgia in general practic

Learning Objectives

This module will update your knowledge on fibromyalgia, including issues such as:

  • Diagnosing fibromyalgia using the American College of Rheumatology criteria
  • Examining the 18 potential trigger points in a patient
  • Prescribing amitriptyline to help with pain and sleep
  • Managing flares of pain by switching from one moderately powerful opiate analgesic to another
  • Distinguishing fibromyalgia from chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Advising patients on complementary therapies
  • Engaging patients in psychological therapies

This module was updated on the 31 August 2012 and was up to date with all key guidelines and evidence at that point. It will be reviewed as part of our routine update cycle by 30 August 2014 but will be updated sooner to reflect any key guideline changes.

Author

Dr Selwyn Richards is consultant rheumatologist for Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Dr Mandy Fry is a GP in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, and senior primary care lecturer at Oxford Brookes University

Date module published

Apr 30, 2017

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Reviews

  • USEFUL UPDATE

  • very informative learing

  • Helped to understand the difference between chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia