Tender Points: A Fibromyalgia Journey

Tender Points: A Fibromyalgia Journey, is a feature length documentary following Lina Alvarez, a young woman and business owner living with fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by pain, tenderness, and stiffness of the muscles and joints along with fatigue and anxiety. There are 10 million people in the US that currently suffer from fibromyalgia, between 75-90% of those who suffer from this invisible illness are women. While there are many people suffering from this invisible illness, there is no known cure.

After years of researching and trying numerous treatments, Lina randomly stumbled upon the work of Dr. Paul St. Amand through social media, who coincidentally practices a few miles from her house. She discovered that he prescribes his patients an over-the-counter medication that has the ability to reverse the symptoms of fibromyalgia. This prescription which includes a painful clearing process is called the guaifenesin protocol. Having exhausted every other means of relieving her symptoms, Lina decides she has nothing to lose by trying this scientifically unproven and extremely painful treatment.

Embarking on this 30 day trial, Lina hires a group of her friends who are filmmakers to document her personal journey. During the trial, Lina connects with other women from around the world on social media who are also trying the protocol. Ultimately, Lina’s journey is about spreading awareness of fibromyalgia, trying to make this invisible illness seen and giving hope to many.