Fibromyalgia Pain Relief — West Los Angeles Chiropractic®
Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Care
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome that causes chronic pain in the muscles and soft tissues around joints, along with persistent fatigue and tenderness at specific sites throughout the body. The exact cause remains unknown. According to the CDC, an estimated 4 million U.S. adults are affected — and many go years without an accurate diagnosis.
How We Approach Fibromyalgia Care
At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Karr takes a conservative, hands-on approach. Instead of masking symptoms, treatment addresses the root cause of pain. Many fibromyalgia patients supplement their medical care with chiropractic treatment. As a result, they often experience meaningful improvement in pain levels, mobility, and quality of life.
What the Research Shows
A 1997 pilot study by three Canadian chiropractors followed 21 fibromyalgia patients through four weeks of chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation and soft tissue therapy. The researchers found improvements in flexibility, range of motion, and reported pain levels. They were careful to note these results applied within their small sample, and recommended a larger follow-up study to confirm the findings would generalize more broadly. Even with that caveat, the direction of the results supported including chiropractic treatment alongside medical care for this condition.
By addressing nervous system interference, Dr. Karr uses targeted chiropractic adjustments, cold laser therapy, and spinal rehabilitation. Together, these help restore more normal function, naturally reducing muscle spasm, nerve pain, and chronic inflammation.
Source: Blunt et al., J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 1997
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are closely linked conditions. Both are frequently misunderstood and underdiagnosed. A recent meta-analysis found clinical overlap between the two conditions in about 47% of cases, and other research puts the range as high as 75% depending on the population studied. Dr. Karr is experienced in treating both conditions and understands the complex, overlapping nature of these diagnoses.
Source: Journal of Translational Medicine, 2026 meta-analysis
If you are suffering from fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome and looking for a natural, non-drug approach to relief, we are here to help.
📞 Call Betty at 310-914-9400 to schedule your evaluation.
West Los Angeles Chiropractic® | 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165 | Los Angeles, CA 90064
What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Fibromyalgia?
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are both physically and emotionally exhausted, often struggling to maintain basic daily function. Fibromyalgia (FMS) presents similarly but adds the burden of persistent, widespread muscle pain. Many patients live with both conditions at once.
If you feel misunderstood by family, friends, or even your own doctors, you are not alone. CFS and FMS remain among the most underdiagnosed and undertreated conditions in medicine. As a result, many patients spend years searching for answers before finding effective care.
The Numbers Are Significant
- An estimated 3.3 million U.S. adults, or 1.3% of the adult population, have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) — and that number continues to be studied and refined as awareness grows
- Roughly 60% of ME/CFS diagnoses occur in women
- Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 4 million Americans, with the large majority — estimates range from 75-90% — being women
Source: CDC/NCHS Data Brief, 2023
Why Medication Alone Often Falls Short
Many patients with CFS or FMS report that medication alone doesn’t fully resolve their symptoms. That’s often because these conditions involve complex neurological and musculoskeletal factors, which a single prescription may not fully address on its own.
At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Karr takes a complementary approach. By addressing spinal alignment, nervous system interference, and soft tissue dysfunction, chiropractic care works alongside your existing treatment to help restore the body’s normal function, without drugs or surgery.
If you suspect you have CFS or fibromyalgia, we encourage you to schedule a thorough evaluation with Dr. Karr to see whether chiropractic care could complement your current treatment plan.
📞 Call Betty at 310-914-9400.
What Is Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) and Its Relationship to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a chronic condition marked by widespread pain in the muscles and soft tissues throughout the body. It commonly comes with a cluster of other symptoms: unrefreshing sleep, persistent fatigue, cognitive difficulties often called “fibro fog,” and heightened sensitivity to pain in general. Women are affected far more often than men, with commonly cited ratios of roughly 4 to 1.
How Is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis has changed significantly over the past three decades. The original 1990 criteria from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) relied on a physical exam checking 18 specific “tender points” on the body, requiring pain at 11 or more of them. In 2010 and 2011, the ACR revised this approach entirely. Instead of a tender-point exam, doctors now use a Widespread Pain Index and a Symptom Severity Scale, which together account for how many body regions hurt and how severe symptoms like fatigue and cognitive trouble have become. A further 2016 update added a specific requirement: pain in at least 4 of 5 body regions for three months or longer, alongside minimum scores on those same scales.
Source: American Family Physician, 2023
What Causes Fibromyalgia Pain?
Fibromyalgia doesn’t involve tissue damage or inflammation the way a joint injury or arthritis does. Instead, current research points to central sensitization — a state in which the central nervous system amplifies pain signals beyond what’s happening in the body. Researchers have linked this to altered levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and substance P, along with increased glutamate activity in the brain regions that process pain.
This distinction matters for treatment. Because fibromyalgia pain originates in how the nervous system processes signals rather than from damaged tissue, treatments aimed at peripheral pain — including opioids — often don’t work well. Multiple studies have found opioids largely ineffective for fibromyalgia, while carrying real risks of dependence and even increased pain sensitivity over time.
Source: Central Sensitization and Nociplastic Pain, 2026
How Fibromyalgia Relates to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome overlap significantly and often occur together in the same patient. Current research puts that overlap at roughly 47% of cases, with some studies citing a range as wide as 35-75% depending on how each condition is defined. Even so, they remain distinct diagnoses with separate diagnostic criteria — fibromyalgia centers on widespread pain, while CFS centers on profound, unrelenting fatigue. Because the two conditions are so often mistaken for one another, or missed entirely, a thorough evaluation matters more than guessing which one is actually present.
📞 Call Betty at 310-914-9400 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Karr.
Is There a Difference Between Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Is There a Difference Between Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Yes — and the distinction matters significantly for diagnosis and treatment.
Chronic fatigue simply means persistent tiredness over an extended period of time. Many people experience this due to stress, poor sleep, or demanding schedules. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), on the other hand, is an entirely different and more serious condition. It involves a specific set of recognizable symptoms that persist long-term and significantly impact daily function.
Recognizing the Symptoms of CFS
- Severe fatigue and muscle pain following even moderate physical activity
- Reduced mental clarity and difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
- Unrestful sleep or insomnia
- Digestive issues
- Chronic headaches
- Swollen lymph glands
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Depression
- Fever or chills
If you recognize several of these symptoms in yourself, a thorough evaluation is essential. Many CFS patients go years without an accurate diagnosis. Without the right diagnosis, effective treatment becomes far more difficult to find.
📞 Call Betty at 310-914-9400 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Karr.
Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Care
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome that causes chronic pain in the muscles and soft tissues around joints, along with persistent fatigue and tenderness at specific sites throughout the body. The exact cause remains unknown. According to the CDC, an estimated 4 million U.S. adults are affected — and many go years without an accurate diagnosis.
Is There a Difference Between Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Yes — and the distinction matters significantly for diagnosis and treatment.
Chronic fatigue simply means persistent tiredness over an extended period of time. Many people experience this due to stress, poor sleep, or demanding schedules. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), on the other hand, is an entirely different and more serious condition. It involves a specific set of recognizable symptoms that persist long-term and significantly impact daily function.
Recognizing the Symptoms of CFS
- Severe fatigue and muscle pain following even moderate physical activity
- Reduced mental clarity and difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
- Unrestful sleep or insomnia
- Digestive issues
- Chronic headaches
- Swollen lymph glands
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Depression
- Fever or chills
If you recognize several of these symptoms in yourself, a thorough evaluation is essential. Many CFS patients go years without an accurate diagnosis. Without the right diagnosis, effective treatment becomes far more difficult to find.
The Numbers Are Significant
- An estimated 3.3 million U.S. adults, or 1.3% of the adult population, have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)
- Roughly 60% of ME/CFS diagnoses occur in women
- Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 4 million Americans, with the large majority — estimates range from 75-90% — being women
Source: CDC/NCHS Data Brief, 2023
What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a chronic condition marked by widespread pain in the muscles and soft tissues throughout the body. It commonly comes with a cluster of other symptoms: unrefreshing sleep, persistent fatigue, cognitive difficulties often called “fibro fog,” and heightened sensitivity to pain in general. Women are affected far more often than men, with commonly cited ratios of roughly 4 to 1.
How Is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis has changed significantly over the past three decades. The original 1990 criteria from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) relied on a physical exam checking 18 specific “tender points” on the body, requiring pain at 11 or more of them. In 2010 and 2011, the ACR revised this approach entirely. Instead of a tender-point exam, doctors now use a Widespread Pain Index and a Symptom Severity Scale, which together account for how many body regions hurt and how severe symptoms like fatigue and cognitive trouble have become. A further 2016 update added a specific requirement: pain in at least 4 of 5 body regions for three months or longer, alongside minimum scores on those same scales.
Source: American Family Physician, 2023
What Causes Fibromyalgia Pain?
Fibromyalgia doesn’t involve tissue damage or inflammation the way a joint injury or arthritis does. Instead, current research points to central sensitization — a state in which the central nervous system amplifies pain signals beyond what’s happening in the body. Researchers have linked this to altered levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and substance P, along with increased glutamate activity in the brain regions that process pain.
This distinction matters for treatment. Because fibromyalgia pain originates in how the nervous system processes signals rather than from damaged tissue, treatments aimed at peripheral pain — including opioids — often don’t work well. Multiple studies have found opioids largely ineffective for fibromyalgia, while carrying real risks of dependence and even increased pain sensitivity over time.
Source: Central Sensitization and Nociplastic Pain, 2026
How Fibromyalgia Relates to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome overlap significantly and often occur together in the same patient. Current research puts that overlap at roughly 47% of cases, with some studies citing a range as wide as 35-75% depending on how each condition is defined. Even so, they remain distinct diagnoses with separate diagnostic criteria — fibromyalgia centers on widespread pain, while CFS centers on profound, unrelenting fatigue. Because the two conditions are so often mistaken for one another, or missed entirely, a thorough evaluation matters more than guessing which one is actually present.
Source: Journal of Translational Medicine, 2026 meta-analysis
How We Approach Care at West Los Angeles Chiropractic®
Many patients with CFS or FMS report that medication alone doesn’t fully resolve their symptoms. That’s often because these conditions involve complex neurological and musculoskeletal factors, which a single prescription may not fully address on its own. At West Los Angeles Chiropractic®, Dr. Karr takes a complementary, conservative, hands-on approach that addresses the root cause of pain rather than masking symptoms.
By addressing spinal alignment, nervous system interference, and soft tissue dysfunction, chiropractic care works alongside your existing treatment to help restore the body’s normal function, without drugs or surgery. Many fibromyalgia patients supplement their medical care with chiropractic treatment and experience meaningful improvement in pain levels, mobility, and quality of life.
What the Research Shows
A 1997 pilot study by three Canadian chiropractors followed 21 fibromyalgia patients through four weeks of chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation and soft tissue therapy. The researchers found improvements in flexibility, range of motion, and reported pain levels. They were careful to note these results applied within their small sample, and recommended a larger follow-up study to confirm the findings would generalize more broadly. Even with that caveat, the direction of the results supported including chiropractic treatment alongside medical care for this condition.
Source: Blunt et al., J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 1997
Nutritional Support
Dr. Karr recommends Metagenics practitioner-grade supplements to support metabolism, reduce inflammation, and address nutritional deficiencies commonly associated with fibromyalgia and CFS. Contact our office, and Dr. Karr will recommend the right protocol for your specific needs.
Commonly Recommended Options
- Mag Glycinate — a highly absorbable form of magnesium commonly used to support muscle function, nervous system health, and restful sleep.
- OmegaGenics Fish Oil EPA-DHA — a concentrated omega-3 formula that supports a healthy inflammatory response, along with joint, brain, and cardiovascular health.
- CoQ10 — supports cellular energy production, which may be relevant for the persistent fatigue common to both conditions.
- Serenagen — an herbal formula with adaptogens traditionally used to support the body’s response to ongoing stress.
Not every patient needs every supplement above. Dr. Karr will determine which options, if any, make sense for your specific case as part of your evaluation.
Order online with Dr. Karr’s practitioner discount at drkarr.metagenics.com. Use code DRMKAR3335 for 25% off and free shipping.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
General Nutritional Guidance
Patients with fibromyalgia and CFS often benefit from reducing refined foods, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, saturated fats, and gluten-containing grains. At the same time, increasing fresh vegetables, lean protein, legumes, whole grains, and essential fatty acids can help support overall function.
Stress Management
Many patients report that regular chiropractic care helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Both factors significantly impact fibromyalgia symptoms.
Research & Resources
For patients seeking additional information on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, the following organizations provide credible, research-based resources:
- American Chiropractic Association
- The American Fibromyalgia Syndrome Association, Inc.
- National Fibromyalgia Association
Suggested Reading
Treating and Beating Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Dr. Rodger H. Murphree, D.C., C.N.S.
If you suspect you have CFS or fibromyalgia, we encourage you to schedule a thorough evaluation with Dr. Karr to see whether chiropractic care could complement your current treatment plan.
📞 Call Betty at 310-914-9400 to schedule your evaluation.
West Los Angeles Chiropractic® | 11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 165 | Los Angeles, CA 90064
