Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue? How to Tell the Difference – Part 2

When the Body Can’t Recharge

Last week, we introduced Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) as a condition often linked to an undetected injury to the brainstem. These injuries can result from car accidents, sports impacts, falls, or even past trauma.

When the connective tissue that stabilizes the spine is damaged, the spine can shift into a stressed position. This instability places added pressure on the upper neck vertebrae—the most mobile and delicate part of the spine. Even a small misalignment in this area can place pressure on the brainstem, disrupting its ability to function properly.

One of the key consequences is dysfunction in cortisol release, which affects both body and mind. This helps explain why people with CFS often experience cycles of poor sleep, stress intolerance, and persistent exhaustion.


CFS and Upper Cervical Research

Research led by Dr. Marshall Dickholtz Sr. and his team revealed a strong connection between the upper cervical spine and CFS. Six months after patients received precise upper cervical adjustments, the study reported:

  • Physical functioning: improved from 58% to 85%
  • Overall health: improved from 35% to 55%
  • Mental health: improved from 50% to 70%
  • Social functioning: improved from 40% to 70%
  • Vitality: improved from 17% to 55%

Patients also reported better sleep quality, decreased reliance on sleep medication, and even normalized cortisol release patterns.


Taking the Next Step

Upper cervical chiropractic care offers a gentle, precise, and non-invasive way to address the root cause of CFS symptoms. By correcting misalignments in the top of the spine, it’s possible to restore proper brain-body communication and give the body the chance to recharge naturally.

If you or someone you love is living with the draining effects of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, it may be time to explore this specialized approach.

📅 Schedule your NUCCA evaluation today with Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care in Graham, Washington. Visit www.nuccawashington.com to book your appointment.

To schedule a consultation, simply click the button below or contact our office.

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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, headachesfibromyalgiavertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/