Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences regarding whether their rheumatologists checked pressure points when diagnosing fibromyalgia, with some... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences regarding whether their rheumatologists checked pressure points when diagnosing fibromyalgia, with some explaining that the older diagnostic method required responding to at least 11 of 18 tender points, though many doctors now rely more heavily on symptom patterns and ruling out other conditions. Several members described having pressure points checked by various specialists including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and orthopedic doctors, with most reporting significant tenderness that confirmed their diagnosis, though a few were diagnosed without any physical examination at all. A recurring theme was confusion and concern about receiving a fibromyalgia diagnosis without the traditional pressure point test, leading some members to question whether their diagnosis was accurate or whether they should seek a second opinion.