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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
2 days ago
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Answer Summary

Members shared their frustrations around the question of why rheumatologists often refuse to treat fibromyalgia patients, with many describing... Read more

Members shared their frustrations around the question of why rheumatologists often refuse to treat fibromyalgia patients, with many describing being turned away or undertreated despite significant pain. Several members noted that fibromyalgia is increasingly understood as a neurological condition involving central sensitization, which may explain why rheumatologists feel it falls outside their scope, and some suggested seeking specialists with specific fibromyalgia training. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy, with members recommending medications like Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Savella, and encouraging others to keep pushing for proper care.

A MyFibroTeam Member

There are some rheumatologists who specialize in fibromyalgia. Just like there are some neurologists who will help with migraine. But, when doctors focus on a specialization they go from there. If their training has not included something like fibromyalgia then I believe it takes extra training afterwards... and of course interest in doing so.

2 days ago
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hi Sue, my experience has been they just don't know WHAT to do!
My rheumatologist had several things for me to try but nothing different than my PCP had already tried.
Someday... Hopefully they'll come up with something that works for us but I'm not holding my breath.
Love,
Deb 😘

2 days ago
A MyFibroTeam Member

My PCP referred me to a rheumatologist and the first words out of her mouth were I don't treat fibromyalgia and I don't prescribe pain medication. She eventually gave in and gave me half the dose of tramadol I was getting. I only get a 90 day supply and have to have my pee tested twice a year. Its ridiculous. My other rheumatologist was great and gave me what I needed but she retired.

2 days ago
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hi If I had not been referred to Rheumatologist I would not be diagnosed properly. 25 years of Misdiagnosis including Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, for Sarcardoisis. But She spent 6 months with rigorous Labs to make diagnosis.

Always, Always Advocate for Yourself!! They make mistakes they are Human, and talk about Fibro meds. Lyrica, Cymbalta, Savella.

I hope you get the help you need.

With Misdiagnosis even Christina Applegate is experiencing this, and she’s still in hospital. She has money and clout, doesn’t matter. For 5 years she was on MS meds for no reason. Plus, doctors came in her room “Congrats!! You don’t have MS”! Massive mind f!

2 days ago
MyFibroTeam

It's a frustrating reality that many people with fibromyalgia face — feeling dismissed or undertreated by doctors, including rheumatologists. The truth is, fibromyalgia has historically been met with skepticism, even within the medical community.

Here are some reasons why this disconnect happens:

- Stigma and misunderstanding Show Full Answer

It's a frustrating reality that many people with fibromyalgia face — feeling dismissed or undertreated by doctors, including rheumatologists. The truth is, fibromyalgia has historically been met with skepticism, even within the medical community.

Here are some reasons why this disconnect happens:

- Stigma and misunderstanding — For a long time, fibromyalgia was not taken seriously, with pain often being dismissed as "all in your head"
- No definitive test — Unlike some conditions, fibromyalgia can't be confirmed with a blood test or scan, making some doctors uncomfortable diagnosing it
- Limited research history — Fibromyalgia has only been seriously studied for about 20–30 years, so medical understanding is still catching up
- Treatment challenges — There are no universally "highly effective" drug treatments, which can make some doctors feel ill-equipped to help

The good news is that brain imaging research has now confirmed that the pain experienced is very real, and attitudes are slowly shifting. As one MyFibroTeam member put it, finding the right doctor can feel like a real journey: *"Trying my best to find the right doctors for me... My goal is to build a good team of doctors who I can trust to treat my conditions."*

Don't give up — the right care team is out there! 💪

2 days ago

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