Fibromyalgia is a neurosensory condition that affects the brain's processing of pain, leading to chronic discomfort. Research indicates that it impacts 6.4% of the US population and is more prevalent among women.

This condition has no known cause yet, so many struggle to find effective and sustainable relief. In this blog, we will explore how people can find solace through gentle chiropractic techniques for fibromyalgia.

Understanding Fibromyalgia

People who have fibromyalgia endure symptoms such as widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive challenges that fluctuate in episodes or flare-ups. The alternating periods of feeling well and suddenly experiencing a flare-up can be incredibly overwhelming.

Given the nature of fibromyalgia, the impact on quality of life can vary depending on the individual's symptoms. However, people with fibromyalgia tend to be less active due to pain and sleep disturbance.

Medication, lifestyle modifications, and complementary modalities like chiropractic care are beneficial in addressing pain and improving mobility. As no one treatment works, combining treatments can have a cumulative effect on managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia

Spinal misalignments may exacerbate symptoms of fibromyalgia by causing nerve irritation and disrupting the body's natural balance. While medications target symptoms, chiropractic care optimizes nervous system function, thereby addressing musculoskeletal pain at its root, reducing fatigue, and improving overall well-being.

Common Gentle Chiropractic Techniques

Instrument-Assisted Adjustments

Compared to manual adjustments, instrument-assisted adjustments administer gentler, more precise, and safer impulses to the spine. Consequently, this technique reduces inflammation and muscle tightness while enhancing joint proprioception (the awareness of joint position and movement).

Some of the instruments a chiropractor for fibromyalgia may use include the following:

• Activator adjusting tool. This tool delivers a quick and gentle impulse force at specific points to restore motion to the targeted spinal vertebra or joint.

• Impulse adjusting instrument. Controlled by a microcomputer, this device provides no popping or cracking sound.

• Segmental drop table. A drop table uses a segmented surface that can be lifted and dropped during a chiropractic adjustment, allowing gravity to assist in the adjustment and making it gentler and more effective.

Flexion–Distraction Technique

Flexion–distraction therapy uses a specialized table that gently stretches and decompresses the spine, helping to reduce pressure on the spine's disks, nerves, and other structures.

A case study by Robert Borzone published in 2018 demonstrates the effectiveness of flexion–distraction therapy.

A 69-year-old man suffered from sharp pain radiating from his lower spine to his left hip and pubic bone, along with numbness in his thigh. These symptoms had been present for six months and became severe a week before he sought help. He attributed his back issues to a traumatic injury at age 14 and struggled with pain during activities, particularly gardening. He never took medication. 

He sought treatment and was diagnosed with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, a type of arthritis that causes stiffening and bone overgrowth. He underwent flexion–distraction manipulation, starting with a pain level of 10 out of 10. After four treatments, his hip and thigh pain disappeared, leaving only low back and groin pain. By the end of 14 treatments, he was completely pain-free.

Soft Tissue Therapy

Soft tissue therapy techniques, including massage and myofascial release, are beneficial for relaxing muscle fibers and reducing tension. These hands-on methods focus on trigger points to release knots and enhance mobility and posture. 

For fibromyalgia patients looking to achieve optimal outcomes, engaging in 45-minute sessions three to five times a week for three to five weeks has been found effective.

The Importance of Gentle Techniques

Patients with fibromyalgia are more sensitive to touch and may find manual chiropractic adjustments uncomfortable. Given this, manual treatments can be more harmful than helpful. Therefore, it is crucial to personalize care to enhance the benefits of gentle chiropractic techniques for fibromyalgia patients.

Gentle chiropractic techniques performed by a trusted chiropractor like Dr. Eric Stumpff of Stumpff Chiropractic guarantee safe and effective treatments that reduce discomfort and alleviate symptoms. With deep knowledge and experience working with fibromyalgia patients, his multidisciplinary approach ensures individual and high-standard care.

Takeaway

Fibromyalgia causes discomfort, exhaustion, and difficulties with day-to-day activities. While it is challenging to manage, it is important for patients to know they have options.

If you have fibromyalgia, chiropractic care can help. By addressing spinal misalignments and restoring nervous system function, gentle chiropractic techniques for fibromyalgia can alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. 

Take control of your fibromyalgia. Call Stumpff Chiropractic today at (954) 466-2726 to schedule an appointment!