Do you know anyone suffering from fibromyalgia? Unbeknownst to many people, this debilitating condition can be well managed by chiropractic. Imagine being tired all the time with burning pain, muscle spasm and tender “trigger” points. Add to that the sensitivity to pain, heat, cold, bright lights, plus bowel/bladder problems, headaches, sleeplessness and/or anxiety. These are the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, antidepressants, physical therapy, counseling, and support groups have poor records in helping sufferers. However, acupuncture, relaxation techniques, meditation and nutritional therapy have more encouraging results. Spinal trauma has long been associated with fibromyalgia. In one study, a neck injury increased the occurrence of fibromyalgia by ten times! That is one reason why fibromyalgia sufferers report good results with chiropractic. For example, in one study all 23 fibromyalgia sufferers (ages 11-76) showed 92-100% improvement and maintained their improvements after one year follow-up with chiropractic care. In another study of 15 women, 60% reported at least a 50% reduction in their pain, less fatigue, and improved sleep quality with chiropractic.
Anyone suffering from fibromyalgia in Portland or anywhere else should see a chiropractor for a spinal check up. It may make the difference between continued illness and recovery, between a life of pain and a life of ease.
Courtesy of Dr. Tedd Koren
