How do fibromyalgia and AMPS differ in clinical features?

Question

Hi doctor.

Are amplified musculoskeletal pain syndrome and fibromyalgia the same thing? If not, what are the differences between them? My current medications include Topamax, Neurontin, Cyproheptadine, Zyrtec, Peppermint oil capsules and Vitamin B2. Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain, stiffness and tenderness of the muscles, tendons and joints. Fibromyalgia is also characterized by restless sleep, awakening, feeling tired, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression and disturbances in bowel function. Fibromyalgia is sometimes referred to as fibromyalgia syndrome and abbreviated as FMS. Remember in fibromyalgia there is no tissue inflammation, but high pain sensitivity or reflex as the cause of pain. Amplified musculoskeletal pain syndrome (AMPS) is a medical condition in which an individual develops an abnormal pain reflex. This overactive reflex causes constriction of blood vessels which deprives oxygen to muscles, bones and skin causing amplified pain. Amplified musculoskeletal pain syndrome is a collective term for several pain disorders including, but not limited to complex regional pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, neuropathic pain, psychogenic pain, reflex neurovascular dystrophy and reflex sympathetic dystrophy.