Fibromyalgia: Cultural Phenomenon or Real Disorder?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that affects many people. At the Marc Bony Chiropractic Center in Mataró, we explore how chiropractic care can help alleviate your symptoms.
FIBROMYALGIA: CULTURAL PHENOMENON OR TRUE DISORDER?
The word Fibromyalgia comes from the Latin “fibro” meaning fibrous tissue, and from the Greek “myo” for muscle and “algia” for pain. The Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and various tender points. It affects 3 to 6 million Americans and more people every day in Spain. For undetermined reasons, more than 85% of people who develop fibromyalgia are women. It is still unknown whether this predominance is a phenomenon of socialization in Western cultures or if it arises from the combination of hormones from the female reproductive system and other genetic predispositions.
According to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), fibromyalgia is defined as a history of pain in all four quadrants of the body for at least 3 months. This means that the pain is felt on both sides – left and right – as well as above and below the midline of the abdomen. Additionally, the ACR associates the disease with 18 characteristic tender points, and the diagnosis is confirmed when 11 or more of these points are found to be tender. In addition to pain and fatigue, the following symptoms may be associated:
• Sleep difficulties / insomnia
• Morning stiffness
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel
• Menstrual pain
• Tingling in the extremities
• Restless legs
• Sensitivity to temperature
• Memory problems
THE BASICS OF FIBROMYALGIA
Recent research indicates that fibromyalgia is a stress-related condition, as are the following two diseases: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, commonly known as “Lupus,” and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. These 3 conditions share the same characteristics: predominance in women, chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, irritable bowel, etc.
The 3 conditions arise from an abnormal response of the body to stress. In the case of Lupus, it is the immune system that is affected, causing an autoimmune reaction in the body; in fibromyalgia, metabolic abnormalities are noted. These metabolic changes are the result of a decrease – due to stress – in blood flow to a part of the brain called “the Pituitary gland.” Consequently, there is a decrease in a significant number of important hormones, such as growth hormones (somatotropin) and thyroid-stimulating hormones. These hormonal variations lead to abnormal muscle repair, hypothyroidism, and/or memory loss.
Some of the most notable changes in fibromyalgia occur directly in the muscles where there is a significant accumulation of a protein called “ground substance.” This protein is usually found in muscles, bones, and connective tissues throughout the body and is responsible for strengthening tissues. In a healthy person, when a muscle is injured, the muscle tissue is capable of regenerating and healing itself. But in a person with fibromyalgia, too much protein accumulates in the tissue, and together with muscle spasms, creates the “knots” associated with the disease.
Many tests can determine if a person exhibits the characteristics of Fibromyalgia, but there is no analysis (as in the case of Lupus) to confirm it. Thus, many times, the term Fibromyalgia is used incorrectly. There are women diagnosed with the disorder simply because they have persistent pain throughout the body. On the other hand, some doctors may not pay much attention and prescribe medications like antidepressants that are likely to have significant side effects. However, it has been proven that chiropractic care combined with lifestyle changes is very efficient and effective in reducing or completely alleviating fibromyalgia pain while promoting the proper functioning of the body and overall health.
CHIROPRACTIC AND FIBROMYALGIA: THE MOST NATURAL OPTION
Imagine a hose (the spinal cord). Its “job” is to carry water (nerve messages) from its source (the brain) to the plants (the organs and tissues of the body). If we place a stone (vertebral subluxation) on this hose or tie a knot at the beginning where the water pressure is strongest, what happens? Well, the water cannot pass or the flow weakens. Specifically, the spinal cord cannot transmit the necessary information for the proper functioning of each organ, tissue, or cell in the body. This leads to many disorders, disturbances, or diseases with various symptoms, depending on the case.
The role of the Chiropractor is to remove the stone from the path, allowing for a good flow of information from the source to the rest of the body.
When the subluxation is located at the level of the 1st Cervical, in addition to blocking nerve messages, it can simultaneously compress the vertebral artery, which decreases blood flow to the brain. And this can affect the functioning of the pituitary gland and trigger the series of mechanisms listed above.
Moreover, because Fibromyalgia affects soft tissues, we notice increasing tension and a loss of the natural flexibility of the muscles, resulting in a global loss of movement in the spine. This results in a neurological reflex that causes even stronger muscle tension. It is a vicious cycle that will continue until it leads to more pain, more muscle tension, loss of movement, more sleep difficulties, etc. In fact, with spinal adjustments, we also prevent the spine from losing the movement that characterizes it.
HELP YOURSELF: SOME TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE
If you suffer from Fibromyalgia, there are many simple lifestyle changes that can positively affect your life. The difference between people with fibromyalgia who take care of themselves and those who do not is very noticeable. The former suffer less, are more active, and enjoy a better quality of life, while the latter worsen every day.
1. SLEEP WELL AND SUFFICIENTLY
This can reduce the pain and fatigue associated with the disease. But it can be difficult since insomnia is a common symptom of fibromyalgia. It is best to avoid alcohol before bedtime or pills that may seem effective but actually induce deep sleep without rest and interfere with the functioning of the rest of the body. Additionally, they alter the chemistry of the internal environment, resulting in more problems. We recommend creating a bedtime routine. Something that will allow you to relax both your mind and body to foster a calm environment conducive to restorative sleep. For example, listening to soft music and breathing deeply. Read our chart on relaxation on the page.
2. EXERCISE
We recommend exercising regularly – daily or weekly. Research has shown that regular aerobic exercise reduces the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Pain and fatigue can diminish the ability and desire to exercise or engage in activities each day, but it is crucial to be as active as possible. The best way to start a physical exercise program is to begin with something very gentle like walking or swimming. Starting slowly allows you to stretch and move stiff and painful muscles. High-impact exercises or weights can increase discomfort. So listen to your body!
3. MAKE CHANGES AT WORK
Most people with fibromyalgia continue to work but can make some changes to feel more comfortable and promote better performance. The most common changes – aside from changing schedules or reducing physical work when possible – are ergonomic in nature. The chairs used, the position of the table, the counter, the computer, etc. are all things that are easy to modify. (Ask for more information at the consultation about the best ergonomics at work).
4. EAT WELL
Food, like anything else, has the ability to stress the body or help it heal. For example, the following foods tend to be stressful for the body: dairy, eggs, yeast, corn, and anything containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), nitrates, or nitrites (found in prepared foods). Due to toxins found in certain environments, it is preferable to avoid fish. Always favor organic foods and base your diet on whole foods like brown rice, legumes, rice milk, soy, nuts, and red fruits.
