About the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA)
The National Fibromyalgia Association is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization whose mission is:

To develop and execute programs dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with fibromyalgia.

NFA History

Founded in 1997 in Orange, California, by Lynne Matallana and Karen Lee Richards, the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA) is the largest nonprofit [501(c)3] organization working to support people with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain illnesses. Lynne and Karen became acquainted in the mid-1990s through an online fibromyalgia (FM) chat group. Both women had seen numerous doctors before receiving a diagnosis and they were concerned that many people with FM were not receiving the medical attention and support that they desperately needed. Before long, the pair was sharing ideas about helping others with FM. They concluded that there was very little reliable information about this misunderstood and debilitating condition—and that patients and health care providers needed to unite to ensure helpful information was easily accessible to those with this chronic disorder.

When you or your employees are experiencing chronic pain, like that found in Fibromyalgia patients, your business could suffer. One busy, small business owner has battled her way back to a becoming nearly pain-free. Dixie Gillaspie didn’t think it was possible. But through the help of a consultant she has been able to help keep the symptoms of her fibromyalgia at bay and has encountered more business opportunities as a result.

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal aches, pain and stiffness, soft tissue tenderness, general fatigue, and sleep disturbances. The most common sites of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle, and hands, but any body part can be affected. Fibromyalgia patients experience a range of symptoms of varying intensities that wax and wane over time.

What are the Symptoms?

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by the presence of multiple tender points and a constellation of symptoms.

* Pain
The pain of FM is profound, widespread and chronic. It knows no boundaries, migrating to all parts of the body and varying in intensity. FM pain has been described as stabbing and shooting pain and deep muscular aching, throbbing, and twitching. Neurological complaints such as numbness, tingling, and burning are often present and add to the discomfort of the patient. The severity of the pain and stiffness is often worse in the morning. Aggravating factors that affect pain include cold/humid weather, non-restorative sleep, physical and mental fatigue, excessive physical activity, physical inactivity, anxiety and stress…

Who is Affected?

Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 10 million people in the U.S. While it is most prevalent in women, it also occurs in men and children of all ethnic groups. Because of its debilitating nature, fibromyalgia has a serious impact on patients’ families, friends, and employers, as well as society at large.

One of the most mysterious conditions of modern times is fibromyalgia. This condition, which primarily affects women, still baffles many doctors and medical researchers. Fibromyalgia has been identified by our research center as being a condition wherein excess toxins build up in the soft tissues of the body, causing the pain and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.

Explains the developmental process of fibromyalgia and demonstrates the hands-on protocol of full-body massage for patients with fibromyalgia.

“Living With Fibromyalgia” is the first feature-length film about fibromyalgia, providing an honest, personal, and practical look at how to live with this chronic pain condition through profiles of seven patients and interviews with fibromyalgia experts. It’s told by the daughter of a fibromyalgia patient. It has been called a “milestone” for the fibromyalgia community and a “must-see” for fibromyalgia patients and those who love them by the President of the National Fibromyalgia Association, Lynne Matallana.

There are approximately six million people in the U.S. today suffering from what is known as the “INVISIBLE DISEASE”, or Fibromyalgia. While signs of this crippling disease might not be visible on the surface, the effects are very real. A businesses involvement and support of employees with Fibromyalgia makes all the difference.

Fibromyalgia Syndrome impacts different people in different ways and there is no one solution for occupational, legal, disability and psychological challenges.