Is Fibromyalgia a Disability?

Living with fibromyalgia can be an incredibly challenging experience, as it is a condition that brings about persistent pain and various other symptoms. It is estimated that nearly 1 in 20 people in the UK may be affected by fibromyalgia to some extent. However, many people who suffer from the condition often find themselves asking “Is fibromyalgia a disability?”. 

In this blog, we will delve into this topic and shed some light on the impact of fibromyalgia on work life, its classification as a disability, and the support available for those affected.

Let’s dive right in!

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia, also known as FMS (fibromyalgia syndrome), is a chronic pain disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system. It is characterised by:

• widespread pain
• tenderness
• fatigue
• sleep disturbances
• cognitive difficulties (commonly referred to as “fibro fog”)
• heightened sensitivity to stimuli 

While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, research suggests that it may involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be challenging because as there’s no specific test to diagnose the condition. Instead, doctors rely on a combination of clinical evaluation and the presence of specific symptoms, such as widespread pain in at least 4 of the 5 body regions for at least 3 months. Additionally, doctors may perform other tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

As it’s often misdiagnosed with other conditions, it’s important to also clarify what fibromyalgia is not:

• a condition caused by a tendency to experience psychological distress as pain (‘somatisation’)
• driven by inflammation within muscles and/or joints
• a reflection of poor coping
• a maladaptive reaction to trauma or distress
• deconditioning or poor fitness
• ‘all in the head’

Fibromyalgia Symptoms

People with fibromyalgia experience a wide range of symptoms that can significantly impact their daily lives. While pain is the hallmark symptom of fibromyalgia, it is not limited to one specific area. Instead, it affects multiple areas of the body, including the muscles, joints, and tendons. The pain associated with fibromyalgia is often described as a constant dull ache.

As well as pain, people with fibromyalgia frequently experience chronic fatigue, even after resting well or having a good night’s sleep. This fatigue can be debilitating and make it challenging to carry out simple, everyday tasks. People with fibromyalgia often experience sleep disorders, such as insomnia or waking up frequently during the night. As a result, they may wake up feeling unrefreshed and fatigued, making their symptoms even worse.

Cognitive difficulties, often referred to as “fibro fog,” are another common symptom of fibromyalgia. People with fibromyalgia may experience problems with memory, concentration, and mental clarity. This can make it challenging to perform tasks that require focus and attention, affecting a person’s ability to hold down a job.

How Does Fibromyalgia Affect Work?

Fibromyalgia can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to work and perform daily job responsibilities. The symptoms of fibromyalgia can cause problems when it comes to maintaining regular work hours, meeting deadlines, and carrying out physical tasks.

The unpredictable nature of fibromyalgia symptoms can also lead to increased absenteeism. Employees living with fibromyalgia may need to take time off work to manage their symptoms or attend medical appointments. This can result in decreased productivity and difficulties in career advancement.

Moreover, the chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia can lead to reduced stamina and physical limitations. It can become difficult to perform tasks that require prolonged standing, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in repetitive motions. This can be particularly challenging for people with physically demanding jobs.

Is Fibromyalgia a Disability?

So, with all of this information in mind, we can move on to answering the question “Is fibromyalgia a disability?” and why. 

The Equality Act 2010 defines disability as “a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities”. So, yes, fibromyalgia is considered a disability. 

It is important to note that some people with fibromyalgia may experience milder symptoms that do not significantly affect their work, while others may face more severe limitations. The severity and impact of fibromyalgia on work can be influenced by various factors, including the type of work, the availability of support, and the person’s overall health and coping mechanisms.

Support at Work

For employees living with fibromyalgia, it is crucial to communicate openly with employers about their condition and the specific challenges they face. By engaging in a dialogue, employees can work together with their employers to find reasonable accommodations so they can continue working effectively.

There are various support measures that can be introduced to assist employees with fibromyalgia in the workplace. Some examples include:

• Flexible working hours: Flexibility in work hours can be immensely beneficial for people with fibromyalgia. Allowing for flexible start and end times or adjusting the number of working hours per day can help deal with fluctuating symptoms and energy levels.
• Modified workstations: Making adjustments to the physical workspace, such as providing ergonomic chairs, standing desks, or additional back support, can help alleviate pain and improve comfort during work hours.
• Environmental modifications: Creating a supportive work environment can help people with fibromyalgia manage their heightened sensitivity and improve concentration. Consider reducing noise levels, providing adequate lighting, and minimising sensory stimuli.
• Regular breaks: Allowing for regular rest breaks throughout the workday can help people manage their fatigue and prevent symptoms from getting worse. Employees can use these breaks for stretching, relaxation exercises, or simply resting.
• Job restructuring: In some cases, job responsibilities may need to be modified or reassigned to accommodate the limitations imposed by fibromyalgia. This can involve redistributing tasks, reducing physical demands, or providing additional support or resources.

What Employers Should Know

Employers should be aware that fibromyalgia is a legitimate and disabling condition that can affect a person’s ability to work. It is important for employers to educate themselves about fibromyalgia, its symptoms, and the impact it can have on employees’ work performance. 

In addition to providing reasonable accommodations, employers can take several other steps to support employees with fibromyalgia:

• Provide education and resources: Offer information and resources about fibromyalgia to employees and managers. This can help raise awareness, dispel misconceptions, and promote a supportive work environment.
• Foster open communication: Create an atmosphere where employees feel comfortable discussing their condition and any challenges they may face. Encourage an open dialogue between employees and managers to explore potential solutions and accommodations.
• Offer support programmes: Implement employee assistance programmes or wellness initiatives that provide support for individuals with chronic conditions. These programmes can include resources for managing stress, accessing healthcare, and promoting overall well-being.

What Next?

At Careers with Disabilities, we can help with this topic in two key ways.

For people living and working with fibromyalgia, you can avail of our support and guidance for disabled job seekers. Check out our Disability Advice Hub and varied sections of information on workplace support. You can also take a look at our disability-friendly job board and directory of inclusive employers to find a job opportunity that will suit you and your needs.

For employers working with employees with fibromyalgia, be sure to take a look at our guidance for employers. You can check up on important topics such as funding and becoming a disability-confident employer. Then, you can also make the most of our disability-friendly job board by posting your own jobs there and meeting a wide range of diverse candidates.

If you have any questions, get in touch with our team. And finally, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter below for all the latest news and opportunities from Careers with Disabilities.