Foreword by David A. Nye, M.D.

Introduction

1. Fibromyalgia Basics: Signs and Symptoms / Possible Causes / A Brief History / Finding the Right Doctor / Depression-Cause or Effect? / Case History: Roberta, 39, music teacher

2. The Role that Sleep Plays: Sleep's Healing Properties / How to Get the Sleep You Need / Prescription and Over-the-Counter Sleep Aids / Case History: Naomi, 45, self-employed writer/editor

3. Managing Pain: Monitoring and Describing Pain / The Many Sites of FM Pain / Medicines for Pain Relief / Narcotic Drugs / Nonmedical Pain Management Techniques / Massage and Physical Therapy / Case History: Donald, 41, university professor

4. Illnesses Similar or Related to FM: Irritable Bowel Syndrome / Irritable Bladder (Urethral Syndrome) / Circulatory Problems / Cognitive Problems / Ear and Hearing Problems / Hypoglycemia / Mitral Valve Prolapse / Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) / Reflux / Hypothyroidism / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Lyme Disease / Gulf War Syndrome / Postpolio Syndrome / Case History: Liz, 20, student

5. Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Trigger Point Locations and Their Effects / Therapy for Myofascial Pain / Case History: Sally, 54, retired researcher

6. Theories About the Causes of Fibromyalgia: Sleep Theories / Chemical Disturbances / Digestive Disturbance / Immune System Abnormalities / The Limbic System and the HPA Axis / Phosphate Metabolism / Case History: Frances, 45, computer programmer/analyst

7. Fibromyalgia in Children: Detecting FM in Children / Case History: Alicia, 19, college student

8. FM and Your Private Life: Spouses and Significant Others / The Relationship Contract / Grief and Acceptance / Sexual Intimacy / Explaining FM to Children / Explaining FM to Family and Friends / Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Postpartum Care / Case History: The Brown Family

9. Fibromyalgia and Work: To Tell or Not to Tell / The Americans with Disabilities Act / Office Ergonomics / Working at Home / Filing a Disability Claim / Case History: Melinda, 46, director of computer operations

10. Finding Your Balance: Exercise / Nutrition / Maintaining Good Emotional Health / Listening to Your Body / Troubleshooting Fibromyalgia / Case History: Candy, 44, former bank manager

Epilogue