Fibromyalgia

Understanding Fibromyalgia and Its Symptoms

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a complex disorder that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain across the body, affecting the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Often accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive issues, and mood disorders, fibromyalgia can significantly impact daily life. Additionally, it is commonly linked with other conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ/TMD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), depression, and anxiety. This challenging and often misunderstood condition affects approximately 3-5% of Americans, with a higher prevalence in women.

Diagnosing Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia can be difficult to diagnose, as there is no specific lab test to confirm its presence. Current diagnostic guidelines suggest that a person may be diagnosed with fibromyalgia if they experience widespread pain lasting more than three months without any identifiable underlying medical condition. This broad criteria can make diagnosis challenging, often leaving patients searching for effective relief.

Exploring the Causes of Fibromyalgia

The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, adding to the frustration of those affected by the condition. However, experts believe that a combination of factors may play a role in its onset, including:

• Genetics: Family history may increase susceptibility.
• Infections: Certain illnesses may trigger or worsen symptoms.
• Physical or Emotional Trauma: Physical injury or prolonged emotional stress may be contributing factors.

While these factors don’t provide a definitive cause, they offer insight into potential triggers, helping to guide effective management strategies.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Fibromyalgia

One of the key areas of focus in chiropractic care is stress reduction, particularly as it relates to the spine and nervous system. Misalignments, or subluxations in the vertebrae, can be caused by what chiropractors refer to as the “three Ts”: toxins, trauma, and thoughts (stress). These subluxations interfere with optimal nervous system function, which relies on clear communication between the brain and body to maintain health.

When misalignments are present, this vital communication is disrupted, potentially contributing to the symptoms of fibromyalgia. By gently adjusting the spine, chiropractors help remove these subluxations, restoring nervous system function and promoting overall wellness.

Chiropractic Care and Symptom Management for Fibromyalgia

Chiropractic adjustments aim to improve the body’s natural alignment, which can help relieve many of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, including pain, fatigue, and poor sleep quality. Research has shown promising results for those with fibromyalgia who receive chiropractic care. For instance, a study found that chiropractic management significantly improved patients’ range of motion in the cervical and lumbar spine, increased flexibility, and reduced pain levels.

Additionally, by relieving tension in the spine, chiropractic care helps reduce stress on the nervous system, which may alleviate some of the stress-related triggers associated with fibromyalgia symptoms.

The Benefits of Combining Resistance Training with Chiropractic Care

Research from Florida State University suggests that combining chiropractic care with resistance training may further enhance symptom relief for fibromyalgia patients. In this study, participants who engaged in resistance training and received chiropractic adjustments twice a week reported improvements in flexibility, balance, coordination, and endurance. This combination offers a comprehensive approach to managing fibromyalgia, addressing both muscular strength and spinal alignment to support better overall function.

Finding Relief from Fibromyalgia with Chiropractic Care

For those living with fibromyalgia, chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive approach to managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Through gentle adjustments that align the spine and optimize nervous system function, chiropractic care can provide much-needed relief from the pain, fatigue, and mobility challenges associated with fibromyalgia.

If you or someone you know is struggling with fibromyalgia, consider reaching out to a chiropractor to explore options for personalized care. Together, chiropractic care and targeted physical activity can help restore balance, support natural healing, and improve day-to-day comfort.