Are you familiar with fibromyalgia? Maybe you or a loved one has been diagnosed?
It’s a disease that afflicts approximately 3-6% of Americans, primarily women. Thus far, medical science hasn’t been able to properly explain why it occurs in certain people or where it originates, but it’s only a matter of time before we know for sure. The diagnosis process itself is complex. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, it can take up to 4 years for a patient to be correctly diagnosed.
When diagnosed, patients generally have widespread pain in all 4 quadrants of their body for a minimum of 3 months. They also will have tenderness or pain in at least 11 points on the body when pressure is applied. These tender points are usually clustered around the neck, shoulder, chest, hip, knee and elbow areas. Some other common symptoms are:
- Fatigue
- Sleep Disorders
- Chronic Headaches
- Dizziness/Lightheadedness
- Cognitive or Memory Impairment
- Muscle Pain and Malaise after exertion
- Jaw Pain
- Morning Stiffness
- Menstrual Cramping
- Irritable Bowels
- Feeling of Numbness and Tingling
- Skin and Chemical Sensitivities
In recent years, fibromyalgia patients have reported relief from symptoms when they seek chiropractic care. Since adjustments to the spine and neck can restore the carriage of the entire body, many patients have experienced significantly reduced pain throughout the entire body.
If you’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, contact Innovative Health and Wellness, the premier chiropractor in and around the Woodstock area. Our friendly team offers years of experience and a focus on a full body and comprehensive approach.