Thank you Ditter for asking. I can't believe how many of us are afflicted with this painful condition. It's been interesting to read all your thoughts and suggestions about this topic. I was formally diagnosed about 8 years ago but like many of you have probably had it for a lot longer than that. I had chronic fatigue syndrome in the early 1980's and my doctor feels it is linked to that as it's one of those lingering viruses (similar to glandular fever) that stay in your body and flare up when you get stressed etc. That probably explains why I have my good days and my not so good days. I am retiring from work this week so it's going to be interesting to see if my fibromyalgia improves once I leave my stressful job. I don't take any painkillers as nothing seems to work but I try to keep busy and try not to dwell on the pain. Quilting is very therapeutic. Best wishes to all.