Fibromyalgia Treatment at Weiss Chiropractic
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and sensitivity throughout the body, often accompanied by fatigue and sleep disturbances. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seeking proper diagnosis and treatment is essential for managing your condition effectively. Dr. Calvin Weiss specializes in fibromyalgia treatment, providing personalized care to help you find relief from fibromyalgia.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition characterized primarily by widespread musculoskeletal pain that affects various parts of the body. The underlying mechanisms of fibromyalgia involve dysregulation in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals and other sensory inputs. This altered processing can lead to heightened sensitivity to pain (hyperalgesia) and heightened sensitivity to non-painful stimuli (allodynia). This neurological aspect of fibromyalgia contributes to its diverse symptom profile, which may include mood disturbances like anxiety and depression, cognitive issues such as memory problems, and disruptions in sleep patterns.
Causes of Fibromyalgia
The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, it often begins or is triggered by a significant event such as surgery, infection, psychological trauma, or a physical injury like a motor vehicle accident. Following such events, symptoms of fibromyalgia may gradually develop over time, sometimes weeks or months after the initial trigger. This delayed onset can make it challenging to diagnose and manage the condition effectively. The association between fibromyalgia and other health conditions is also notable. Many individuals with fibromyalgia report comorbidities such as headaches, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), highlighting the systemic nature of the condition and its impact on overall health.
The Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia shows various symptoms. Among the most common manifestations are persistent discomfort, cognitive difficulties known as “fibro fog,” and profound fatigue despite sufficient sleep. These symptoms collectively define the experience of fibromyalgia, making it crucial for individuals affected by this condition to seek proper diagnosis and comprehensive management.
Discomfort
This is the main symptom of fibromyalgia. A lot of people describe fibromyalgia as a constant, dull, background ache that can persist for weeks to months. The pain usually shows up on both sides of the body as well as above and below the waist.
Cognitive Problems
Individuals with fibromyalgia often have trouble concentrating, focusing, and paying attention. These cognitive issues may prevent someone from keeping up with their school work or work duties.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another prominent symptom among those with fibromyalgia, characterized by feeling tired upon waking despite adequate sleep. Many individuals also report disrupted sleep patterns, waking up during the night due to discomfort, and may develop conditions like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome
Chiropractic Treatment for Fibromyalgia
Chiropractic care serves as a cornerstone in the holistic management of fibromyalgia, providing alternatives beyond conventional treatments like medications or surgery. By emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and stress reduction, chiropractors approach fibromyalgia treatment with a focus on identifying and addressing underlying causes. Through precise spinal adjustments, chiropractors aim to enhance the communication pathways between the brain and spinal cord, potentially mitigating the neurological dysfunctions associated with fibromyalgia. When combined synergistically with therapeutic exercises, targeted massage therapy, and stress-management strategies, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach aimed at not only managing symptoms but also improving overall quality of life for individuals with fibromyalgia.