New Hope for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Sufferers
Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia are common concerns in upper cervical chiropractic care.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
According to the Mayo Clinic:
“Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that may worsen with physical or mental activity, but doesn’t improve with rest… Although many theories exist—from viral infections to psychological stress—the actual cause remains unknown. Because its symptoms are hard to measure, CFS wasn’t widely recognized for years. Today, however, it’s taken seriously.”
If most people get tired and recharge with rest, someone with chronic fatigue never fully recovers—even with a full night’s sleep or a nap.
Uncovering the Root: Undetected Brain Stem Injury
We often find that chronic fatigue links to a hidden injury in the brain stem. This critical area governs energy regulation and overall neuromuscular coordination.
Injuries that loosen the connective tissues holding the spine in place—especially in the upper neck—can shift the spine into a stressed, misaligned position. This misalignment may distort brain stem function, affecting cortisol release and triggering a range of symptoms.
The Mayo Clinic notes:
“Long-term activation of the stress-response system—and prolonged exposure to cortisol and other stress hormones—can disrupt most of the body’s processes. This increases the risk for numerous health issues, including sleep problems, digestive issues, depression, obesity, and memory issues.”
Sound familiar? These symptoms often overlap with both CFS and fibromyalgia.
Research Insights: Upper Cervical Care and Life Quality
An intriguing study by Dr. Marshall Dickholtz Sr., alongside a medical doctor and psychiatrist, explored how upper cervical alignment affects Chronic Fatigue Syndrome using the SF-36 quality-of-life survey six months after treatment. The results were striking:
| Area | Baseline | After 6 Months |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Functioning | 58% | 85% |
| General Health | 35% | 55% |
| Vitality | 17% | 55% |
| Social Functioning | 40% | 70% |
| Mental Health | 50% | 70% |
Alongside these improvements, patients also experienced better sleep (both quality and duration), decreased dependence on sleep medications, and normalized morning and evening cortisol levels.
What to Do Next
If you or someone you love is living with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue, know that relief might be closer than you think. Upper cervical care offers a path to help the body heal more naturally.
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Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/