Fibromyalgia is a widespread condiΒtion. Some investigators estimate as many as 2% of the general population in the United States suffers from FM, with women affected 10 times more than men.1 With the combination of symptoms faced by the FM patient, finding the solution to this problem is a tough task.
Medical science is yet to discover the cause for this condition. Because there are so many different symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, there are just as many theories for what causes it. Since those with FM often experience an altered mood β such as depression β many experts focus on the psychologiΒcal aspect of the disease. Others feel that FM is more a physiological entity, and has its origins in physical trauma or chronic postural alterations. Some suggest that FM is a central nervous system disorder, with imbalances in neurochemicals β since those with FM are hypersensitive to even the slightest stimuli. They often have a pain response to normally non-painful pressure or activity. Itβs not out of the question that a combination of psychoΒlogical and physical triggers can result in the onset of many of FM symptoms.
Chiropractors often offer their skills to FM patients, hoping to relieve some of their symptoms. In fact, evidence suggests that those with FM consult with chiropractors quite regularly. According to a study conducted at a tertiary Mayo Clinic, 37% of the 300+ FM patients surveyed had visited a chiropractor in the previous 6 months.
But does chiropractic work for them? Some recent studies indicate it does. In one example, chiropractors surveyed FM patients before, during and after a series of treatments to see if they responded favorably to chiropracΒtic adjustments combined with a specific soft tissue technique known as ischemic compression. In this prelimiΒnary study, 60% of the subjects who were treated with this protocol experiΒenced a significant improvement β with respect to pain reduction, improved sleep and decreased fatigue. What was especially encouraging was the improvements were reported to be maintained in a 1-month follow up.3 Although pure scientific research on the chiropractic treatment of fibromyalΒgia is lacking, some early studies are showing that chiropractors could help improve these patientsβ quality of life.4 Chiropractors are trained as neuromusΒculoskeletal specialists, and one of the main focuses of chiropractic care is the positive effects it can have on a personβs nervous system. Since all information from the outside world is collected and analyzed by the nervous system, itβs logical to assume that if a person with FM is sensitive to a stimulus that others are not, there may be something wrong with this system.
Vertebral subluxations are focal areas of spinal restriction and/or malposition. When present, these lesions can not only irritate the nerves that exit the spine (peripheral nervous system), but the irritation caused by subluxations will also feed back into the brain (central nervous system). Information from the joints of the spine is passed on to an important structure in the brain called the cerebellum. This part of the brain has been known traditionally to be important for body awareness, balance and coordination. However, more recent studies have shown the cerebellum to be intimately involved with maintaining proper cognitive function and playing a significant role in emotional stability. Therefore, irritation of the joints in the spine caused by vertebral subluxation may be linked to any of the symptoms associΒated with fibromyalgia.
More studies are needed to show the positive effects that chiropractors can have with FM patients. However, having chiropractic care alongside other traditional treatment methods (including exercise, massage techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy5) is likely to give these patients a better chance for recovery.
Sourced through Scoop.it from: www.upchiro.com
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder involving widespread pain and sensitivity in the entire musculoskeletal system. In addition to pain, patients also report long-term fatigue, and/or disturbed sleep and mood. Other disorders commonly associated with FM may include: irritable bowel syndrome, TMJ pain and dysfunction, psychological condiΒtions and some autoimmune diseases.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .Β
Professional Scope of Practice *
The information herein on "Fibromyalgia: How Chiropractic Can Help" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
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Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, acupuncture, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.
We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182
Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*
Presently Matriculated: ICHS: MSN* FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
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