Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Fibromyalgia is a basic term used for unexplained muscle pain. Here at Abundant Life Chiropractic we try to find the root causing of your muscle pain. Whether it be neurological, physiological, metabolic or dietary we can help. The word fibromyalgia comes from the term for fibrous tissue (fibro) and the term for muscle (myo) and pain (algia). Fibromyalgia syndrome, more prevalent in females, affects nearly 6 million people in the United States. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder which includes widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and multiple unexplained tender points that affect a person’s well-being. In order to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a person must have 11 or more specific tender points. In addition to pain and fatigue, people who have fibromyalgia may also experience sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, headaches, stomach issues, painful menstruation, tingling or numbness in the extremities, restless legs syndrome, temperature sensitivity and memory problems. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition however it won't cause damage to your muscles, joints, ligaments or internal organs. In some circles fibromyalgia is thought to be an autoimmune disorder.

Treating Fibromyalgia with Chiropractic/Acupuncture

A combination of chiropractic, acupuncture, trigger point therapy, EMS and lifestyle changes have proven to be very effective in decreasing the severity, intensity and duration of the physical pain and symptoms caused by fibromyalgia. Chiropractic and acupuncture care is crucial for those who suffer from fibromyalgia in order to keep the spine and muscles from losing motion. Decreased range of motion of the spine and other parts of the body is often caused by increased muscle tightness and decreased movement of muscles and ligaments. The loss of movement in the spine results in a neurological reflex that "protects" the spine from damage and thus causes muscle fibers to become even tighter. If not corrected this cycle will continue and over time will lead to tighter muscles, increased pain, decreased range of motion, and insomnia. Adjustments to the spine and acupuncture decrease inflammation and are the only non-invasive ways to help the spine function properly. In order to keep the spine mobile and the muscles relaxed it is not uncommon for those with fibromyalgia to be adjusted three to four times per month. Due to the characteristics of fibromyalgia chiropractic adjustments are usually gentler than normal. This decreases the stress on the small supporting muscles of the spine, which can sometimes be injured. It is important when seeking chiropractic/acupuncture care, to make sure that we are familiar with your muscular changes that occur with fibromyalgia so that we can adjust our treatment accordingly.

What can you do for your Fibromyalgia?

Get a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep can help ease the pain and fatigue caused by fibromyalgia. However many people with fibromyalgia have trouble sleeping due to pain, restless legs, and abnormal brain-waves. Insomnia is very common.

Exercising with Fibromyalgia

Studies have shown that exercise can relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Even the symptoms of fibromyalgia may make exercise and daily activities difficult, it’s crucial to be as active as possible. Low impact exercises, like walking and swimming are the best way to fibromyalgia fatigue.

Eating Well and Fibromyalgia

The proper diet can also help combat the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Foods that tend to be increase symptoms of fibromyalgia are: wheat, eggs, dairy, corn, and anything with monosodium glutamate (MSG), nitrates or nitrites. Toxins may also contribute to the symptoms of fibromyalgia. It is important that you eat as much clean, organically grown fresh foods as possible.

Nutritional Supplements and Fibromyalgia

There are a number of supplements and herbs that help decrease the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Magnesium malate has been shown to relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia, some people who have used ginkgo biloba with good results and others with various herbals. Numerous vitamins and herbs are available through Abundant Life Chiropractic. Stop in today and see how we can help you.