What is a characteristic feature of signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Increased sensitivity to touch is a hallmark characteristic of fibromyalgia, which is often referred to as allodynia. Individuals with fibromyalgia may experience heightened pain responses to stimuli that typically do not cause discomfort, such as light pressure. This increased sensitivity can make everyday experiences, like wearing clothing or being lightly touched, feel painful or uncomfortable.

Other symptoms of fibromyalgia often include widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, but the heightened sensitivity to touch distinctly differentiates it from other musculoskeletal disorders. This aspect of fibromyalgia reflects the disorder's complex impact on the nervous system and how it processes pain signals. The combination of these factors demonstrates the unique challenges individuals with fibromyalgia face in managing daily activities and their overall quality of life.