Which condition is associated with widespread pain and sensitivity to pain?

The condition associated with widespread pain and sensitivity to pain is fibromyalgia. This syndrome is characterized by chronic pain that is distributed throughout the body, affecting muscles and soft tissues. People with fibromyalgia often experience heightened sensitivity to pain, which is referred to as hyperalgesia, as well as allodynia, where normally non-painful stimuli are perceived as painful.

Fibromyalgia also frequently presents with additional symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues, often referred to as "fibro fog." These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and functioning. The widespread nature of pain and the specific sensitivity to pressure in fibromyalgia sets it apart from other conditions, which typically have different patterns of pain or localized joint issues.

For example, rheumatoid arthritis tends to involve joint inflammation and pain that may not be widespread but localized to specific joints, while osteoarthritis primarily causes joint pain resulting from wear and tear. Osteoporosis, on the other hand, is characterized by weakened bones and is primarily related to bone density rather than muscle or soft tissue pain. Thus, fibromyalgia distinctly aligns with the symptoms of widespread pain and increased sensitivity, confirming its classification in this context.