Gray Matter Reductions in Fibromyalgia Patients   Fibromyalgia is characterized by joint stiffness, pain, sleep disturbances and pain. It is medically unexplained, though past research has shown that there is a correlation between fibromyalgia and gray matter reduction. Gray matter is a part of the central nervous system that routes sensory and motor stimulus of the central nervous system to create chemical synapse response activity. A study found that the neurotransmitter dopamine may be responsible for gray matter reductions in fibromyalgia patients. The study was led by Dr. Patrick B. Wood, of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-Shreveport, and published in the Journal of Pain. Researchers compared the brains of 20 healthy women and 30 women with fibromyalgia, all of the same age. They found that the fibromyalgia patients had a significant reduction in gray matter, reinforcing previous studies. In addition, they found a strong connection between gray matter density areas of the brain and dopamine metabolism levels. This new information may give researchers new clues about brain abnormalities in fibromyalgia patients and may help them to learn more about this mystifying disorder. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How many hours can you work if you are receiving Social Security Disability? Decisions on disability applications, fully and partially favorable How do you get Social Security Disability? Does Social Security Disability Come With Medicaid Benefits? Applying for Disability or SSI - How long does it take How long does it take to get SSI Disability Benefits? When can I expect my first disability check and my back pay check? Can I get Retroactive SSI Disability Benefits? How to file for disability in Ohio How to file for disability in Florida Will taking medicine affect your disability case? What do you get when you pay for a disability attorney? Can I afford a disability attorney for my claim? Stroke and filing for disability Social Security Disability, Do Not Take Medication Or Go To Doctor