Fibromyalgia and Chiropractic Care

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness throughout the body. It often includes other symptoms such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, headaches, blurred vision, muscle twitches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome. A key diagnostic criterion is the presence of tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific points on the body.

While the exact cause of FMS remains unknown, research suggests that factors like poor posture, cervical spine dysfunction, spinal joint degeneration, and changes in neuroendocrine transmitters (e.g., serotonin, cortisol, growth hormone) may contribute to the development of FMS. Studies have shown a strong link between poor posture, cervical spine dysfunction, and fibromyalgia symptoms.

For example, Hiemeyer et al. (2002) noted that correcting posture improved tenderness in several of the diagnostic tender points, supporting the notion that posture and spinal alignment could be central to FMS. Similarly, Buskila et al. (1997) found a significant increase in FMS diagnoses among patients who had neck injuries compared to those with leg fractures.

Upper cervical spine misalignments, especially at the level of the atlas (C1), have been proposed as potential causal factors for FMS. These subluxations may lead to postural distortions, neck pain, and muscle spasms in the neck, shoulders, and back, which can exacerbate FMS symptoms. Studies suggest that when the cervical spine is misaligned, it can lead to impaired blood flow and muscle function, further contributing to chronic pain and discomfort.

Interestingly, some studies have shown that chiropractic care, specifically upper cervical chiropractic adjustments, may help alleviate FMS symptoms. Research by Amalu (2007) found that corrections to aberrant spinal function in the upper cervical region led to significant improvements in both FMS and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) symptoms. In his study, 92-100% of patients showed improvements after chiropractic adjustments to the occipito-atlanto-axial complex (C0-C1-C2).

Moreover, other chiropractic studies have indicated that spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and passive stretching can improve cervical and lumbar range of motion and reduce pain intensity in FMS patients. Hains et al. (2007) also found significant improvements in pain levels, sleep quality, and fatigue following chiropractic care.

In conclusion, while more research is needed, the emerging body of evidence suggests that chiropractic care—particularly upper cervical adjustments—may offer a conservative, non-invasive treatment option for individuals with fibromyalgia, potentially addressing the root causes of the condition related to spinal dysfunction and improving quality of life for affected individuals.

Sources:

  1. Hiemeyer, R., et al. "Posture and Tender Points in Fibromyalgia." Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain, 2002.

  2. Buskila, D., et al. "Fibromyalgia and Neck Injury." Rheumatology International, 1997.

  3. Amalu, W., et al. "Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome." Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, 2007.

  4. Hains, G., et al. "Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia: Pain Relief and Sleep Improvement." Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2007.