Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that causes severe musculoskeletal pain. Typically, fibromyalgia is caused by a stressful event that results in emotional or physical strain on the body. This painful illness can cause discomfort anywhere in the body but most frequently affects the neck, upper arms, and knees. Many people with fibromyalgia want to find an alternative to a constant regimen of painkillers – a natural and holistic solution to their pain. Chiropractic care may provide that solution.
Fibromyalgia symptoms are unique to each individual. While pain is the most prevalent symptom for most patients, other symptoms might include fatigue, muscle tenderness, skin sensitivity, joint stiffness, headaches, and anxiety.
5 Ways Chiropractic Treatments Can Ease Fibromyalgia Pain
- Adjustments: Chiropractors utilize musculoskeletal adjustments to ensure that a specific bone or joint is in its proper location. Adjustments prevent joints from pressing against surrounding nerves or muscles, a condition that can cause severe pain, including fibromyalgia. To help with this specific issue, a chiropractor will gently explore the areas of soreness and identify any misaligned or swollen joints. The chiropractor may use one of many adjustments, including flexion-distraction adjustments, which stretch the body on a specially designed table, straightening the spine and preventing lower back pain. Another common technique is the activator technique, which uses a tool to provide relief. The activator runs up and down the spine and sends impulses to the spinal vertebrae, preventing nerve damage and restoring mobility.
- Massage: Chiropractic treatments may also incorporate massage therapy, which has been proven to help reduce the muscle pain associated with fibromyalgia. A massage can increase and enhance the range of motion and heal flexibility issues. While there are many types of massage that the chiropractor might recommend, one of the most common is trigger point massage. Trigger points are nodules that become knotted when stressed. Fibromyalgia often manifests in trigger point issues as it targets muscle fibers. The trigger point massage method releases tension in specific points around the body.
- Natural Pain Management: Depending on the patient and the severity of their condition, fibromyalgia can range from uncomfortable to unbearable. Consistent chiropractic treatment can assist with pain management, and the chiropractor may also recommend natural painkillers during painful flare-ups, such as turmeric supplements, lavender essential oil, and a heating pad.
- Helpful Exercises: A chiropractic professional with experience treating fibromyalgia will also provide exercises designed to stretch your body, alleviate pain and prevent further musculoskeletal damage. These exercises include walking, a simple way to stay active and relieve tension, boosting blood circulation, and helping muscles get necessary nutrients. Swimming is an easy aerobic activity that facilitates movement without pain, and specific stretches like the side bend will help your back and shoulders release tension. Many fibromyalgia sufferers also enjoy yoga to stretch out their muscles.
- Dietary Recommendations: A holistic chiropractic professional may also provide nutritional counseling to help combat fibromyalgia pain. A chiropractor understands the connection between one’s diet and how it affects this specific medical condition. For instance, food high in sugar can aggravate fibromyalgia symptoms, and food high in fat can cause weight gain that puts excess pressure on joints.
Dr. Ryan Johnson of Integrated Chiropractic is dedicated to restoring his patients’ health and balance, both in mind and body. By identifying the root cause of your pain and employing both traditional and innovative techniques, Dr. Johnson will customize a treatment plan specific to your situation. This plan may include adjustments, massage, nutritional counseling, cold laser therapy, or our infrared sauna.
Whether you are a Sarasota resident or visiting Siesta Key, you are welcome in our offices. Call today to learn more.
