Fibromyalgia is one of today’s most common chronic pain conditions. Nearly 1 in 50 Canadians currently suffer from this malady. Unfortunately, the condition is difficult to diagnose, and, being chronic in nature, can linger for several months or even years. Fibromyalgia typically causes pain throughout the body and creates areas so tender that even the slightest pressure hurts.
Patients diagnosed with the condition have both traditional and alternative treatment options available to them. Traditional approaches to managing the pain and treating fibromyalgia are anti-inflammatory prescriptions, sleep medications, and muscle relaxants. Patients frequently choose natural remedies instead of or in addition to traditional medication, such as vitamin therapy, acupuncture, and meditation. One of the most common treatments is chiropractic care.
Chiropractic adjustment reduces pain levels
The most difficult issue to deal with for fibromyalgia sufferers is the constant pain, which often affects the entire body for weeks or months at a stretch. Although these patients initially visit Surrey Family Chiropractic & Massage for the pain they’re experiencing, they soon realize that chiropractic also helps restore overall health and aids the body in self-healing.
By adjusting the spine to improve alignment, as well as incorporating soft tissue work, chiropractors can assist fibromyalgia patients in minimizing their painful pressure points. Many who suffer with this condition look for relief with chiropractic treatment options, and experience a decrease in the tender spots.
Chiropractic also increases range of motion
Chiropractors are also able to adjust the body’s joints and help loosen them. For fibromyalgia patients, this can sometimes increase their range of motion and allow them to move more easily. In turn, patients can see a decrease in symptoms as they are able to maintain a level of activity that keeps pain from building up.
Sometimes it takes several treatments to see significant results, so it’s important to note that chiropractic treatment of fibromyalgia takes a commitment from the patient. The effects, however, are well worth the time invested.
Adjustments boost sleep quality
A common by-product of the pain associated from fibromyalgia is lack of sleep. As anyone knows, being unable to snag several hours sleep can leave you feeling tired, foggy, and irritable, and it can produce muscle and joint pain even in healthy people.
By working with a chiropractor to loosen their joints and manage their tender points, patients suffering from this condition can enjoy a deeper sleep, and stay asleep longer.
Chiropractic complements other fibromyalgia treatments
Sometimes medicines counteract with each other, or mix together and cause side effects. A big advantage of chiropractic care is it can be utilized in tandem with medications or other remedies, whether traditional or natural.
If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, talk to Dr. Caulfield about the various ways to treat it. Remember that there is not a one-stop solution. A treatment regimen should be built on a case-by-case basis tailored to the specific needs of that patient.
Chiropractic patients are empowered within their care
Individuals who must cope with painful, chronic illnesses can become exasperated with treatment options and feel as if they have no control over their situation. Unfortunately, these feelings can bring on stress and depression, which only works against getting better. By working with a chiropractor, patients can feel more in charge of their pain management and more optimistic in their recovery.
People who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia need to understand that there are options available to them for pain management, and they may decide to try more than one at a time. Chiropractic care is a valuable tool to treat the symptoms of fibromyalgia, and patients who will commit will see the benefits of less pain, greater mobility, and better sleep. And, perhaps the best benefit of all, they can take control of their circumstances and be a vital part of managing their personal well-being.
If you or a loved one are suffering from fibromyalgia, don’t do it alone. Dr. Caulfield has a passion for helping sick people in Surrey get well. Call us today to find out how we can help.