Fibromyalgia (also often known as FM or FMS) is a chronic pain condition which affects the muscles and tissues of the body, and is often associated with joint stiffness, extreme fatigue, disturbed sleep, and a number of other problems. The effect on individual sufferers can vary hugely, and can often remain undetected for many years. 

 

The diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, which cannot be seen on x-rays, scans or investigations such as blood tests, can be prolonged and confusing. The diagnosis remains controversial, even today, amongst many medical professionals. 

 

It seems that Fibromyalgia can come on spontaneously, without any obvious cause; it may however occur because of stress, medical problems, or after physical or psychological trauma (particularly road accidents and similar). In these cases, it may be possible to claim compensation.

 

If the onset of these symptoms has been caused (or made worse) because of some form of accident or event that was caused by another person’s negligence, then we may be able to help you.

 

He has an understanding and sympathetic approach to these conditions, and will try to help his clients not only to recover damages for the condition where appropriate, but also to introduce them to medical professionals who may be able to help them physically, or psychotically; or indeed to other sufferers, who will be more understanding of the problems they face on a day to day basis.

 

It appears that for some reason, the condition affects more women than men, and there is no “cure” of such, although various treatments or approaches, may prove beneficial to some sufferers. 

 

Fibromyalgia is a form of chronic pain, and there are other forms of suffering which fall under the “chronic pain “ heading, and may include “Chronic Pain Syndrome”; and various other pain conditions.

 

Bob Long has acted for many clients over recent years, who have suffered from Fibromyalgia or other chronic pain conditions; he is aware of the physical and emotional problems these conditions may cause, not only to the sufferer but also to the family, friends, carers etc. 

 

We find that often, people are confused by their condition, and do not understand why they have pain in different parts of the body, at different times, are tired, lethargic, unable to find words, when previously they have been active and mentally alert. 

 

Because the sufferer often looks well, their friends and even close family members think that they are not truly suffering, but “putting it on”. This is a hard message to get across, and as a sufferer, you may think you are going mad. You are not, and you are not alone in suffering.

 

Bob has had considerable interest in fibromyalgia for many years now as mentioned, and has been instrumental in helping to set up Fibromyalgia support groups in East Kent, where he is a committee member (from its inception) with Fibromyalgia in Thanet (FIT). Consequently, if we represent you in connection with a claim related to Fibromyalgia, we will endeavour to ensure that you have the best advice from a consultant rheumatologist and/or pain specialist, and any other specialist required in that field.