What are the 18 checks for fibromyalgia?

Answer 1

Two points symmetrically on both sieds at these places.

1. Back of neck

2. Elbows

3. Front of neck

4. Hips

5. Lower back

6. Knees

7. Upper back

8. Shoulders

9. Chest

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Answer 2

The 18 tender points that are used to test for Fibromyalgia are spread throughout the body in the head, neck, shoulders, arms, upper and lower back, hips, and legs. A light pressure, that would not normally cause pain, is applied to each of the points. A painful response to 11 of the 18 points may result in a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia. Many doctors are now using an updated diagnostic criteria that allows for response to fewer tender points but also takes into account other symptoms.

Answer 3

Before your doctor diagnoses you with Fibromyalgia they will most likely check 18 tender points that are spread throughout your body. Your reaction to the light pressure they apply will allow them to make a proper diagnosis. These 18 tender points are scattered in all four quadrants of your body (upper, lower, right, and left). Each set is symmetric, with one on the left and one on the right. Five sets are located in the upper quadrant, with four sets located in the lower quadrant. The first set is on the back of the neck, at the base of the head. The second set is located at the top of your chest just below the collarbone. There are two sets on your back at the shoulders; one towards the top of your back, and the other a down on your shoulder blades. There is a set on your arms on the outside of each elbow. On the lower quadrant, there is a set located at the top of the buttocks, and another set located at the bottom of the buttocks. There is a set located on the outside of your hips, and the final set is located on the inside of your knees. According to the original diagnostic guidelines a patient needed to have a pain response to 11 out of 18 of those tender points to be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. The most recent diagnostic guidelines do not have that requirement, but take into account other symptoms.