According to researchers, as much as 7% of the US may be suffering from fibromyalgia. The great majority of those dealing with this condition are women although it does sometimes affect men. Skeptics may try to make you feel like the condition is just in your head, but that’s just not true. What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
- Consistent pain all over the body
- Insomnia
- Weakness
- Confusion and memory loss
- Bladder and bowel problems
How Does Fibromyalgia Develop?
While many researchers disagree on the exact cause of fibromyalgia, most recognize that is springs from an issue with pain signals going to the brain. The thalamus is the part of the brain
which interprets pain signals. Research shows that fibromyalgia patients don’t get enough blood flow to this vital part of the brain. Therefore, pain signals are misinterpreted. But if that’s what the problem is, does that mean it kind of is all in your head? No, and here is why.
To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and fibromyalgia download our complimentary e-book by clicking the image below.
The Connection Between the Neck and Fibromyalgia
As more and more people are seeking natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals, it becomes clear that fibromyalgia is connected to the neck. When the C1 and C2 vertebrae (the top two) are
misaligned, it can actually reduce blood flow to the brain. Thus, the thalamus issue could potentially be the result of an upper cervical misalignment.
That’s why, at the Read Health Center, we focus on the NUCCA technique for identifying and correcting upper neck misalignments. When the neck is back in proper alignment, blood flow can be restored. In turn, this may reduce symptoms of conditions like fibromyalgia. Over time, the condition may completely resolve.
So the next time someone tries to tell you the pain is all in your head, just remember—the problem may actually spring from your neck.
References:
1. Clauw DJ. Fibromyalgia: an overview. Am J Med. 2009; 122(12A): S3-S13.
2. Alibhoy N. Resolution of fibrom foll up cerv chiropr care. J. Up Cerv Chiropr Rese. 2011 Jun 20:pp39-43.
3. Amalu WC. Upper cervical management of primary fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome cases. Todays Chiropr. 2000;29(3)76-86
4. Abeles A, Pillinger M, Solitar B, Abeles M. Narrative review: The pathophysiology of fibromyalgia. Ann Intern Med. 2007; 146:726-734.
5. Ceko M, Bushnell MC, Gracely RH. Neurobiology underlying fibromyalgia symptoms. Pain Res Treat. 2012; 585419:1-8.
6. Tedder N, Bennett C. Improvement in a patient with fibromyalgia following knee chest upper cervical specific care: A case report. J Upper Cervical Chiropr Res. 2012 Mar; 27-30.
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Read call our Ames office at 515-233-8880 or simply click the button below.
