Fibromyalgia & Chiropractic Treatments

Chiropractor helping patient

Understanding Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the body. It can also cause numerous other symptoms, including headaches, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, and irritable bowel syndrome. Fibromyalgia is often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with those of other conditions.

Causes

The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown but is believed to involve multiple factors that interact with each other. These may include genetic predisposition, abnormal levels of certain neurochemicals called neurotransmitters, abnormal pain processing in the central nervous system (CNS), stress or trauma, and infections. Fibromyalgia can affect anyone, but it is most prevalent in women between the ages of 25 and 60. The condition is also more common among people with a family history of fibromyalgia or other related conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome or irritable bowel syndrome.

Studies suggest that many people with fibromyalgia have an imbalance of hormones and neurochemicals, including serotonin and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in the regulation of mood, emotions, sleep, and pain sensitivity. Many people with fibromyalgia also report that their symptoms tend to worsen during times of physical or emotional stress.

Typical treatments

Treatment for fibromyalgia is focused on symptom relief and may include:

  • Medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Stress management strategies such as relaxation techniques
  • Massage therapy
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Yoga or Tai Chi exercises
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Acupuncture
  • Lifestyle changes such as getting more sleep or exercising regularly, and dietary modifications.

Prognosis

The prognosis for people with fibromyalgia is generally good but depends largely on the individual’s response to treatment. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition and there is currently no cure, but the symptoms can be managed with proper medical care.

Chiropractors treatment

Chiropractors can play an important role in managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Through a variety of treatments, such as spinal manipulation, stretching exercises, and lifestyle advice, chiropractors aim to improve the mobility and function of the spine, reduce pain and stiffness affecting muscles and joints, and help boost energy levels and overall well-being.

Chiropractic treatment is often combined with other forms of therapy, such as physical therapy or massage therapy. Chiropractor techniques are designed to restore balance to the body’s nervous system and musculoskeletal structure which can result in reducing stress on nerves that send pain signals from your brain resulting in less pain for those living with fibromyalgia.

Furthermore, chiropractors may also educate patients on good posture, sleeping habits, and exercises that can help reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia. Ultimately, chiropractic treatment is an effective way to manage symptoms of fibromyalgia while improving the quality of everyday experiences.

Reducing its impact

By understanding fibromyalgia and its associated symptoms, you can take control of the condition and make sure that you are doing all you can to live comfortably with it. With the right combination of treatments, lifestyle modifications, and support from family members and medical professionals, living with fibromyalgia can be manageable. By taking care of yourself and understanding what works for your body, you will be better able to cope with this chronic condition.

Looking for a Lenoir City Chiropractor? Contact us today!