Recent studies suggest that fibromyalgia may be associated with an increased risk of stroke and coronary heart disease. Because fibromyalgia is widely known as a chronic pain condition, symptoms such as heartburn, heart palpitations, and chest discomfort are often grouped together under the general category of pain.
Unfortunately, when symptoms are viewed only through the lens of pain, possible effects on the cardiovascular system may be overlooked. Understanding the connection between fibromyalgia and heart health can help patients take steps to protect their overall well-being.
Why Fibromyalgia May Be Linked to Cardiovascular Disease
There are several reasons why fibromyalgia and cardiovascular problems may appear together. In many cases, the relationship develops through a gradual chain reaction.
Consider how the following cycle may occur:
- Chronic pain leads to reduced physical activity
- Reduced activity can contribute to weight gain
- Weight gain may increase cholesterol levels and blood pressure
Over time, this combination can place additional strain on the cardiovascular system and may increase the risk of heart-related events.
This does not mean that heart disease is inevitable for fibromyalgia patients, but it highlights the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle habits whenever possible.
Ways to Support Heart Health with Fibromyalgia
While fibromyalgia symptoms can make daily life challenging, there are several strategies that may help support both heart health and overall wellness.
Get Adequate Sleep
Sleep plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. Research has shown links between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and heart disease, emphasizing how important restorative sleep can be.
Although sleep disturbances are common for people with fibromyalgia, creating a sleep-friendly environment can help. Consider:
- Keeping the bedroom dark and quiet
- Limiting mobile devices and screens before bedtime
- Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
Even small improvements in sleep quality can positively impact the body.
Reduce Stress
Stress has long been associated with cardiovascular problems. Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and place additional strain on the heart.
Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, light stretching, or spending time outdoors may help the body relax and reduce stress levels.
Massage Therapy
Some studies suggest that massage therapy may help lower heart rate and encourage relaxation. In addition, massage may help fibromyalgia patients reduce muscle tension and discomfort.
Gentle Exercise
Although intense exercise may feel overwhelming for someone dealing with chronic pain, light activity can still provide significant benefits.
Examples include:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Stretching
- Low-impact movement
Regular gentle movement not only supports cardiovascular health but may also help reduce stiffness and joint discomfort.
The Role of the Upper Cervical Spine
Another factor that may influence fibromyalgia symptoms involves the upper cervical spine, particularly the atlas vertebra (C1) located at the very top of the neck.
The atlas plays a critical role because it supports the skull and helps protect the brainstem, which is responsible for coordinating communication between the brain and the body.
If the atlas becomes misaligned due to head or neck trauma, even from incidents that occurred years earlier, it may place stress on the brainstem and nervous system.
When this occurs, several important processes can be affected, including:
- Nerve communication throughout the body
- Blood flow to the brain
- Cerebrospinal fluid circulation
When these systems are disrupted, the body may struggle to properly regulate pain signals and other functions, potentially contributing to symptoms commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
How NUCCA Care May Help
At Advanced Spinal Care, we focus on restoring proper alignment of the upper cervical spine using the NUCCA technique (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association).
NUCCA care is a highly specialized approach that differs from traditional chiropractic adjustments.
Key features of NUCCA include:
- Precise measurements and imaging
- Gentle and highly specific corrections
- No twisting, cracking, or popping of the neck
By restoring proper alignment of the atlas vertebra, stress on the brainstem and nervous system may be reduced. When the nervous system is able to function more normally, the body can better regulate pain signals and support overall health.
Many patients report improvements in symptoms such as:
- Chronic pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Balance issues
- General nervous system function
While every patient is different, correcting upper cervical misalignment may help support the body’s natural ability to heal and function more efficiently.
Finding Hope with Fibromyalgia
Living with fibromyalgia can be frustrating and exhausting, especially when symptoms seem unpredictable. However, understanding the potential connections between the nervous system, spinal alignment, and overall health may open the door to new possibilities for relief.
If you suffer from fibromyalgia and want to explore whether an upper cervical misalignment could be contributing to your symptoms, a NUCCA evaluation may help provide answers.
To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click the button below.
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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/