Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that commonly presents with widespread muscle pain, extreme fatigue, concentration issues (fibro fog) and sleep disturbances. Fibromyalgia has been traditionally very misunderstood, and although more is becoming known through further research studies, it is still commonly misdiagnosed. The following are some risk factors associated with fibromyalgia:
- Age – Symptoms of fibromyalgia usually occur during middle age but can also manifest in children and older adults
- Gender – Females are far more commonly diagnosed with fibromyalgia than men
- Family history – Having a relative with fibromyalgia increases your risk of also being diagnosed
- Sleep disorders – While the connection is still uncertain, sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome have been cited as possible triggers of fibromyalgia
- Rheumatic disease – Having a rheumatic disease such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis might increase the odds of also developing fibromyalgia
To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and fibromyalgia download our complimentary e-book Simple and Extremely Effective Ways to End Fibromyalgia Symptoms without Drugs by clicking the image below.
While it seems that there isn’t much that can be done about some of the risk factors – you can’t change your gender or age – if you are already suffering from fibromyalgia, there are things you can do to get some quality of life back. If you’re one of the many with fibromyalgia who are looking for more natural treatment approaches, then upper cervical chiropractic can help you get to the underlying cause of the condition.
Fibromyalgia & Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
Upper cervical chiropractic has a very specific focus – the alignment of the upper two vertebrae in the spine. Why are these so important? The C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae are uniquely shaped and function very differently from the rest of the spinal segments. Because of that, they are more prone to misalignment. This area of the spine is so important because it affects the central nervous system at the level of the brainstem, and this can play a critical role in the way signals (including pain signals) are sent and received from the brain. A misalignment in this area can also impact blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid flow to and from the brain, which is what keeps the brain tissue and spinal cord healthy and nourished.
If the brain and body are not able to communicate properly, this can lead to the conditions under which fibromyalgia symptoms can develop. At Precision Chiropractic West, we look specifically at upper cervical misalignment with the goal being to correct and maintain these vertebrae in normal alignment for as long as possible. Once proper alignment is achieved, normal brain-body communication is restored, and the body is allowed to function and heal optimally. Upper cervical chiropractic is a phenomenal option for any fibromyalgia sufferer who is looking for natural, effective, and long-lasting relief.
References:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/basics/risk-factors/con-20019243
http://www.everydayhealth.com/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-101.aspx
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Laurel Griffin call 515-224-1093 or go to request a consultation here.