The significance of dysfunctions of the sleeping/waking brain to the pathogenesis and treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome.

This article reviews how functional disturbances of the sleeping-waking brain are involved in pathogenesis of the widespread pain, unrefreshing sleep, fatigue, and impaired quality of life of patients who have fibromyalgia syndrome. Recent studies of the effects on EEG sleep by some specific pharmacologic and physical therapeutic agents demonstrate not only benefit for the widespread pain and fatigue, but also improved sleep physiology and restorative sleep of patients who suffer from fibromyalgia.