Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that brings widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness. It can be challenging to deal with and even harder to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic other debilitating conditions like lupus and chronic fatigue syndrome. In addition, not knowing much about this condition can make finding natural relief for fibromyalgia in Anchorage difficult.

The primary cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, but experts believe it’s connected to an imbalance in certain chemicals in the brain and changes in the way the central nervous system processes pain signals. While it’s not yet fully understood what causes this condition, some typical signs and symptoms are associated with it. Let’s take a look at some of the most common indicators of  fibromyalgia and how upper cervical chiropractic adjustments may help provide natural relief. 

#1. Fatigue

Many fibromyalgia patients find it challenging to fall asleep or stay asleep. Due to poor sleep quality, they always feel tired even after waking up. Sadly for some, no matter how much they try, there is no amount of sleep to ease their fatigue. In addition, people with fibromyalgia usually find it difficult to get enough restorative sleep, which can result in chronic fatigue and lack of energy in the morning.

#2. Pain and tender points

Fibromyalgia brings widespread pain in different locations of the body. Patients can experience dull, aching, sharp, throbbing, or deep pain throughout the body, including the tendons of the joints, muscles, and ligaments. 

The diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia have since changed, but previously, tender points have been used by doctors to assess if a person likely has the condition. Regular people usually feel light pressure on these points, but patients with fibromyalgia will complain of severe pain. 

#3. Morning stiffness

Patients with fibromyalgia may experience chronic morning stiffness in their arms, back, and leg muscles and feel the need to loosen up first thing in the morning. Some cases of stiffness last the whole day, but usually, it’s between a couple of minutes to not more than an hour.

#4. Swelling and tingling in the hands and feet

Doctors also refer to this symptom as paresthesia. Sadly, until today the cause of this symptom remains largely a mystery, but studies have found that it’s quite common among people with neurological disorders like fibromyalgia. Swelling and tingling in fibromyalgia patients can happen randomly and may be short-lived or permanent. While it can be bothersome, it’s not generally debilitating.

#5. Mood disorder

Generally, getting sick can alter the mood. However, for fibromyalgia patients, there’s a chance they will have to deal with depression or anxiety disorder triggered by chronic pain and fatigue. Feeling anxious and stressed about coping with the illness and keeping up with a normal lifestyle may also happen. Due to the uncomfortable symptoms of this condition, patients are usually also inactive and more socially withdrawn.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care: A Leading Source of Natural Relief for Fibromyalgia in Anchorage

Your fibromyalgia symptoms can happen due to a misalignment in your upper cervical spine where your C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) are located. These bones are highly susceptible to misalignments because of their function and location. In addition, a misaligned upper cervical spine brings undue stress and pressure to your brainstem.

Fortunately, there is help available for those with fibromyalgia through upper cervical chiropractic care. This natural method focuses on restoring the alignment to this critical area of your spine. Doing so helps restore balance and improve communication between your brain and body, allowing the healing process to begin naturally. 

Upper cervical chiropractic care can provide lasting relief from fibromyalgia symptoms without using drugs or surgery, so if you think you may have this condition, this method is worth considering as an option for natural relief for fibromyalgia in Anchorage.

You will need a thorough examination and tests to help us see if upper cervical care will match your needs. Book your appointment online to get started.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Ortiz, call our Anchorage office at 907-222-4604. You can also click the button below.

If you are outside of the local area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.