Regional and widespread musculoskeletal pain conditions (including fibromyalgia) are very common in the general UK population, more so among women than men. Pain may be isolated to a single location or more diffuse across the body and become chronic over time. The risk factors for these conditions have been the focus of much research. Fatigue and sleep disturbance are common and individuals often report high anxiety and depression.
Individuals must therefore learn to manage symptoms and are often referred to physio- and occupational therapy, as well as psychological treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy, which have shown benefit for pain patients. Research on lifestyle interventions focusing on diet, exercise and sleep may be effective strategies for reducing and preventing pain-related functional disability.