Fibromyalgia is commonly associated with poor sleep, widespread aching, and extreme fatigue. Those living with the condition often face unpredictable flare-ups that can interfere with everyday life. Common triggers may include:
- Poor or insufficient sleep
- Injury or trauma
- Stress
- Fatigue
- Exposure to cold or damp conditions
Traditional medical care for fibromyalgia often focuses on prescription medications or injections aimed at reducing discomfort. While these interventions may provide temporary relief, they do not address structural or neurological factors that may contribute to recurring flare-ups. This has led many individuals to explore alternative, natural approaches to supporting their body’s function.
The Upper Cervical Spine and Fibromyalgia
A growing body of research and clinical observation suggests that alignment of the upper cervical spine may play a role in overall nervous system communication, which can influence energy levels, pain perception, and sleep.
The top vertebra of the spine, called the atlas (C1), surrounds and protects the lower portion of the brainstem. The brainstem serves as a hub for communication between the brain and body, coordinating signals that influence movement, sensation, and other essential processes.
If the atlas shifts out of proper alignment—a condition referred to as Atlas Subluxation—it can create structural stress in the upper cervical spine. This stress may influence how effectively the brainstem communicates with the body, which can affect posture, muscle tension, and overall nervous system function.
Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Fibromyalgia
At Advanced Spinal Care in Washington, we focus on precisely identifying and correcting misalignments of the atlas using the specialized NUCCA.
NUCCA stands for the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association and is designed specifically to evaluate and address atlas alignment without relying on twisting or forceful adjustments.
The NUCCA process involves:
- Taking precise imaging to determine the location and degree of atlas misalignment
- Using gentle, low-force adjustments targeted to the exact area of misalignment
- Encouraging the atlas vertebra to return to its proper position naturally
Because these adjustments are so specific, they aim to restore structural balance and allow the body to maintain alignment over time. This can help support improved nervous system communication, which may positively influence factors related to fibromyalgia, such as fatigue, sleep, and musculoskeletal tension.
Supporting Natural Body Function
Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses on correcting Atlas Subluxation rather than directly treating symptoms. By helping the head and neck maintain proper alignment, the nervous system has an improved opportunity to communicate efficiently with the rest of the body.
Many patients with fibromyalgia find this approach beneficial as part of a broader plan to support the body’s natural function.
Schedule a NUCCA Evaluation
If you are living with fibromyalgia and are interested in learning how upper cervical alignment may influence nervous system function, a NUCCA evaluation can help determine whether Atlas Subluxation may be present.
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/