Arthritis or joint pain is considered an example of "articular" pain - ie. pain within the joint with possible accompanying joint swelling and inflammation.

Fibromyalgia falls within the broad range of rheumatism which is "non-articular" in nature. This means that pain emanates from the soft tissue around the joint, not in it. Fibromyalgia's painful musculoskeletal system can mimic arthritic conditions, but upon examination, there is no evidence of joint swelling or inflammation.

Personal physicians can refer people with fibromyalgia to local Fibromyalgia Associations and Support Groups.