DEAR DR. GOTT:
My doctor told me that I have fibromyalgia. My ribs ache, especially when I lift heavy objects or stretch. I also have insomnia. Can you please explain this condition to me? I am an 80-year-old female.
DEAR READER:
Fibromyalgia is a wide-spread pain condition of the muscles and joints. In order to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia you have to meet certain criteria. From your brief note I cannot determine if you truly have the condition. However, if your only symptoms are insomnia and rib pain, I doubt you have fibromyalgia. Based on the symptoms you listed, it seems that you more likely have a condition known as chest wall syndrome. It is a benign inflammation of the rib lining. It has no known cause and often resolves on its own but for some can take many months to heal. I suggest you use over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or naproxen sodium (Aleve). I also suggest you be examined and tested by a rheumatologist who can determine if you truly have fibromyalgia or another similar condition. He or she can then provide you with appropriate treatment options.
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