Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: Is There a Connection?
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia or the closely related Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), understanding the root of your symptoms is key to finding long-lasting relief.
If you constantly find yourself asking, “Why am I so tired all the time?”—even after a full night’s sleep—you’re not alone. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia are both complex conditions that often leave patients feeling physically and mentally drained, no matter how much they rest.
What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
The Mayo Clinic defines Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as:
“A complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that may worsen with physical or mental activity but doesn’t improve with rest.”
Despite being misunderstood for years, medical professionals now recognize CFS as a legitimate and serious health condition. What makes it so frustrating for many is that even after a nap or 8 hours of sleep, they still wake up just as exhausted as before.
NUCCA Chiropractic and Chronic Fatigue
In many patients, we’ve found that Chronic Fatigue is linked to an undetected brain stem injury. The brain stem plays a crucial role in regulating energy levels. When this area isn’t functioning properly—often due to an upper cervical spinal misalignment—it can lead to long-term exhaustion and poor recovery.
Accidents, injuries, or even minor traumas can cause misalignment in the upper neck, the most vulnerable and mobile part of the spine. When this area shifts out of position, it can place pressure on the brain stem, disrupting key functions, including cortisol regulation.
Why Cortisol Matters
The Mayo Clinic warns that:
“Long-term activation of the stress-response system—and the subsequent overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones—can disrupt almost all your body’s processes.”
This hormonal imbalance can lead to:
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Sleep disturbances
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Digestive issues
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Depression and anxiety
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Memory problems
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Weight gain
Many of these symptoms overlap with both Fibromyalgia and CFS.
NUCCA Research and Results
Research led by renowned upper cervical chiropractor Dr. Marshall Dickholtz Sr. demonstrated significant improvements in patients with Chronic Fatigue after NUCCA spinal corrections. Using the SF-36 quality of life survey, patients saw the following gains after six months of care:
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Physical Functioning: 58% → 85%
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General Health: 35% → 55%
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Vitality: 17% → 55%
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Social Functioning: 40% → 70%
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Mental Health: 50% → 70%
Patients also experienced deeper, more restful sleep and a significant reduction in the need for sleep medication. Perhaps most impressively, cortisol levels normalized over time, showing not only symptom relief but actual physiological improvement.
What’s Next?
If you’re dealing with Chronic Fatigue or Fibromyalgia, don’t settle for simply managing symptoms. Seek the cause. NUCCA chiropractic care may be the missing link in your recovery.
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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, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/