Fibromyalgia affects millions of people worldwide, and if you’ve been diagnosed, you are far from alone. Estimates suggest that up to 7% of the population may experience this chronic condition, with women being ten times more likely than men to be affected. As people age, the risk of developing fibromyalgia increases.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is more than just widespread pain. Those who suffer may also experience:
- Chronic body pain and tender points
- Sleep disturbances and insomnia
- Fatigue and low energy
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Headaches
- Bowel and bladder irritation
These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, making even everyday activities difficult.
What Causes Fibromyalgia?
Research has revealed that fibromyalgia originates in the central nervous system. Essentially, the brain’s perception of pain is distorted, causing normal stimuli to be experienced as pain.
One significant factor is a decrease in blood flow to the brainstem, which may lead to chemical changes in the brain. When the brainstem is under pressure or misaligned, the body receives abnormal pain signals, which contributes to the widespread discomfort experienced in fibromyalgia.
Natural Relief in Graham, Washington
While prescription medications are commonly used to manage fibromyalgia, their effectiveness varies, and side effects can be significant. Studies, including those cited by the Mayo Clinic, show that many patients seek alternative and complementary treatments, with nearly 50% combining traditional care with natural approaches.
One highly effective, drug-free option is upper cervical chiropractic care. The C1 and C2 vertebrae, located at the top of the neck, protect the brainstem. Even a minor misalignment can place pressure on the brainstem and disrupt proper communication between the brain and body, contributing to fibromyalgia symptoms.
Upper cervical chiropractors, like Dr. Craig Lapenski in Graham, Washington, specialize in identifying and correcting these misalignments. By restoring proper alignment, the brain and nervous system can begin to function normally, helping reduce pain and other associated symptoms.
Take the Next Step
If you suffer from fibromyalgia, chronic pain, or sleep and energy issues, upper cervical chiropractic care may help address the root cause of your symptoms rather than just managing them with medication. Early intervention can help restore proper function to the nervous system and improve quality of life.
Schedule your NUCCA evaluation today and take the first step toward natural relief and lasting wellness.
For more information, visit www.nuccawashington.com.
To schedule a consultation, simply click the button below or contact our office.
References
- Alibhoy N. Resolution of fibrom foll up cerv chiropr care. J. Up Cerv Chiropr Rese. 2011; pp.39-43.
- Amalu WC. Upper cervical management of primary fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome cases. Todays Chiropr. 2000; 29(3):76-86.
- Clauw DJ. Fibromyalgia: an overview. Am J Med. 2009; 122(12A): S3-S13.
- Abeles A, Pillinger M, Solitar B, Abeles M. Narrative review: The pathophysiology of fibromyalgia. Ann Intern Med. 2007; 146:726-734.
- Ceko M, Bushnell MC, Gracely RH. Neurobiology underlying fibromyalgia symptoms. Pain Res Treat. 2012; 585419:1-8.
- Panton LB, Figueroa A. Effects of resistance training and chiropractic treatment in women with fibromyalgia. J Altern Complement Med. 2009; 15(3):321-328.
- Tedder N, Bennett C. Improvement in a patient with fibromyalgia following knee chest upper cervical specific care: A case report. J Upper Cervical Chiropr Res. 2012; 27-30.
- Grostic JD. Dentate ligament-cord distortion hypothesis. CRJ. 1988; 1(1):47-55.
Want to hear from people like you? Check out our patient results here.
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/