Can physical trauma cause fibromyalgia?

Physical trauma, such as a car or motorcycle crash, can trigger fibromyalgia. As many as 20 or 25 percent of people with fibro report that they had an accident that occurred right before their symptoms showed up. Car crashes, especially whiplash injuries, are associated with fibro. So are repetitive motion injuries that can occur in some jobs. Whether the injuries directly cause fibromyalgia, or create a high stress experience that triggers fibro symptoms, isn't known yet.

Some scientists believe that physical trauma may cause biochemical changes in the brain that trigger fibromyalgia. For example, accidents, injuries, or sudden trauma to the central nervous system (CNS) may result in the different symptoms of severe muscle pain, fatigue, sleep problems, depression, and other conditions associated with fibromyalgia.

While the exact cause is still not known, it is believed to have a biological cause. 

There may be a number of factors working together. Physical and emotional trauma--even those associated with an injury--have been linked to fibromyalgia. 

If you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, talk to your doctor about your treatment options. Prescription treatment, such as LYRICA, is one option you and your doctor may consider. In clinical studies, LYRICA was proven to provide significant relief from fibromyalgia pain compared with a placebo, so patients felt better and could do more.* 

*Individual results may vary.