The proper spelling of the term "tender points" is a crucial aspect of medical diagnosis. The IPA phonetic transcription for this term is ['tɛndər pɔɪnts], where the stress falls on the second syllable of the first word. The word "tender" is pronounced with an open-mid front unrounded vowel, and "points" with an open-mid back rounded vowel. Accurate spelling ensures that doctors and other medical professionals can communicate effectively and avoid misunderstandings in diagnoses and treatment plans for conditions such as fibromyalgia.
Tender points refer to specific areas of tenderness and sensitivity on the body that are commonly associated with certain medical conditions, particularly fibromyalgia. These points are characterized by localized pain when pressure is applied to them, often resulting in heightened sensitivity and discomfort.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness throughout the body. Tender points are one of the key diagnostic criteria for this condition. There are 18 identified tender points, which are typically located in clusters around the neck, shoulders, chest, elbows, hips, and knees. The most commonly affected areas include the back of the head, the shoulders, the outer elbows, the inner knees, and the upper chest.
A diagnosis of fibromyalgia is usually made when a patient experiences tenderness in at least 11 of the 18 designated tender points. These points are typically identified by applying gentle pressure with the fingertips or thumb. Patients with fibromyalgia may experience heightened pain and discomfort at these tender points, often leading to difficulty with physical activities and sleep disturbances.
Tender points are not exclusive to fibromyalgia and can also be associated with other conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome and certain autoimmune disorders. The identification and examination of tender points play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring the progression of these conditions. Additionally, tender points can be linked to psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression, which may contribute to the overall severity and management of pain experienced by individuals.
Valleix's points.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "tender points" does not have a specific etymology because it is a compound phrase derived from two separate words. However, it is commonly used in the medical field to refer to specific areas on the body that are sensitive to pressure and are often associated with conditions like fibromyalgia. The word "tender" here refers to the tenderness or sensitivity experienced in those specific points when pressure is applied. Thus, the etymology of the term would be traced back to the original meanings of the individual words: "tender" meaning sensitive or easily hurt, and "points" referring to specific locations on the body.