Fibromyalgia Information

Fibromyalgia

This information is provided to broaden the understanding of chiropractic and fibromyalgia.

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Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic pain in the muscles and soft tissues surrounding joints, fatigue, and tenderness at specific sites in the body. While the cause is unknown, an estimated 3 million people are affected in the United States. Because we offer a conservative, hands-on approach to health care, some patients suffering from fibromyalgia are supplementing their medical care with chiropractic care. Thousands of people benefit everyday from safe, conservative chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors focus on the cause NOT the symptoms getting amazing results. By dealing with the nervous system, we are able to reduce nerve interference and help to restore more normal function, thus reducing muscle spasm and pain.

In 1997, a study was conducted by three Canadian chiropractors on the effectiveness of chiropractic care for patients with fibromyalgia. They reported significant improvement in flexibility and reduction of pain levels and recommended that this type of treatment be included along with medical treatments for this condition. I know how important it is that you find a natural, effective and safe solution to the painful and debilitating condition that we call Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Fibromyalgia (FMS).

CFS and FMS seem to be those overlapping diseases that no one really talks about. Have you seen a CFS or FMS commercial anywhere? Approximately 80% of CFS patients have an overlapping diagnosis of Fibromyalgia syndrome. To the vast majority CFS and FMS are the same illness.

What Is Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia?

People with CFS are both physically and emotionally exhausted, and many feel stressed by the constant need to adapt to everyday life. FMS is often identical except for the additional persistent muscle pain.

Do you feel misunderstood by friends and family? Are you treated with anger and suspicion instead of empathy and compassion? Many doctors don’t believe CFS or FMS are true disorders.

Statistics Prove You Are Not Suffering Alone.

The prevalence of Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS) is estimated at over 800,000 people and growing, just in the U.S. alone. Estimates indicate between 60-85% of the cases of CFS diagnosed are for women. FMS, being easier to diagnose affects over 5 million Americans, with over 87% being women.

If you suspect you have CFS or FMS your first reaction may be to go to your family doctor who most likely will give you a prescription drug to take to cover up one of the symptoms. Most people who have these disorders say the drugs don’t help them, but in fact, make things worse. It’s an easy way out for the doctor to prescribe you medication over and over again. This is not a cure.

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How are Fibromyalgia Syndrome and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome different?

Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a described by constant and debilitating muscle pain (myalgia) and by shortened fibrous tissues (fibro) as a result of low cellular energy. The majority of people diagnosed with FMS really have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, except they experience more intense muscle pain, along with the average symptoms. In actuality they simply have a type of CFS, and would benefit from more conclusive and earlier diagnosis.

Is there a difference between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Chronic Fatigue?

Well, chronic fatigue simply means that you are tired for extended periods of time. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a syndrome that is chronic because it is also extensive, as well as including a set of recognizable symptoms such as, muscle pain and severe tiredness lasting for long periods of time following moderate physical activity, reduced mental clarity, unrestful sleep or insomnia, digestive issues, headaches, swollen glands, tinnitus, depression, fever or chills and others.

Research Sites on Chiropractic Results:

We suggest Metabolism Supplements:

Metagenics offers: Kaprex, ultrainflamxfibromyalgia, O-Mega 3(EPA-DHA Essential Fatty Acids), Vitamin C, Magnesium, and Tryptophan for Insomnia

Arbonned offers: Specific formulas to address these issues. We also suggest a 30-day Detox Program; Detox Tea, Fiber Shake, Herbal muscle massage, Herbal colon cleanse. We like the Arbonne Daily Vitamin pack, which includes digestive enzymes. (Click on detox chart to view)

Additional: Weight Loss Program can help. We suggest the Figure 8 Set Special

Additional: O-Mega 3, Vitamin C sustained release, Magnesium, Tryptophan for Insomnia

Stress-management

Various techniques may help as well. Many patients say that regular chiropractic care help reduce stress. Nutritionally Avoid refined foods, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, saturated fats, dairy products, and gluten-containing grains. Eat more fresh vegetables, legumes, whole grains (non-gluten), protein, and essential fatty acids.

Local support groups are important.

Suggested reading: Treating and Beating Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Dr. Rodger H. Murphree, D.C.,C.N.S.