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Fibromyalgia and Chiropractic Care | Focus on Mataró

October 19, 2022

Dr. Marc Bony, DC

Fibromyalgia and Chiropractic Care: A Wellness Approach in Mataró

The fibromyalgia It is a complex chronic condition that can significantly affect the daily lives of those who have it. Widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating are some of its most common symptoms.

In the Dr. Marc Bony Chiropractic Center in Mataró We also welcome people diagnosed with fibromyalgia who want to take care of their spine, mobility, and overall well-being through a chiropractic approach.

It is important to make a fundamental distinction right from the start: Chiropractic does not diagnose, treat, or cure fibromyalgia.

Our work focuses on evaluating the spine, movement, and function from a chiropractic perspective, complementing—and never replacing—the medical care that each individual may need.

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition characterized primarily by generalized pain and increased sensitivity to pain.

Fatigue, sleep disturbances, and difficulties with memory or concentration may also occur.

There is currently no known single cause of fibromyalgia.

Research suggests that there may be changes in the way the nervous system processes pain-related signals and that various genetic and environmental factors may be involved.

For this reason, fibromyalgia should not be attributed solely to a spinal abnormality, a cervical injury, poor posture, or a supposed vertebral subluxation.

Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Each person's experience may vary.

Among the symptoms most commonly associated with fibromyalgia are:

generalized pain;
fatigue or persistent tiredness;
muscle stiffness;
difficulty falling or staying asleep;
increased sensitivity to pain;
memory and concentration problems, commonly known as “fibro fog”;
headaches;
tingling or numbness;
digestive problems in some people;
anxiety, worry, or mood swings.

Symptoms can vary in severity, and there may also be periods when the person feels better or worse.

Can it occur after an accident or a stressful situation?

Some people associate the onset of their symptoms with specific physical or emotional events.

These may include an injury, an illness, an infection, or periods of intense stress.

However, this does not mean that an accident, whiplash, or a spinal disorder is necessarily the cause of fibromyalgia.

Its origin is complex and remains the subject of ongoing research.

For this reason, it is especially important to avoid overly simplified explanations for such a complex condition.

How is fibromyalgia currently diagnosed?

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is the responsibility of qualified healthcare professionals.

There is currently no single blood test, X-ray, or imaging test that can confirm fibromyalgia on its own.

Healthcare professionals typically evaluate a person’s medical history, symptoms, the presence of generalized pain, and other signs, and, when necessary, rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

The so-called “tender points” or “trigger points” historically played an important role in diagnosis, but today A diagnosis of fibromyalgia does not depend solely on finding a specific number of these points.

Fibromyalgia and the Nervous System

The nervous system plays a key role in the perception and processing of pain.

Current research suggests that people with fibromyalgia may have increased sensitivity to pain and differences in the way certain signals are processed by the nervous system.

This does not mean that there is a “pinched” nerve, a vertebra blocking nerve signals, or a subluxation responsible for fibromyalgia.

At the Dr. Marc Bony Chiropractic Center, we prefer to explain these concepts carefully and distinguish between current knowledge about fibromyalgia and the specific approach used in chiropractic care.

What is the relationship between fibromyalgia and chiropractic care?

A person diagnosed with fibromyalgia may also decide to seek chiropractic care.

But it's important to understand exactly what it's for.

Chiropractic care should not be presented as a treatment for fibromyalgia or as a way to cure it.

At our center, when a person with fibromyalgia requests an evaluation, we assess their individual situation from a chiropractic perspective.

We pay special attention to issues related to:

the spine;
the movement;
mobility;
posture;
musculoskeletal function;
and a person's overall well-being.

Pain sensitivity can vary considerably among people with fibromyalgia. For this reason, any care must be tailored to the individual and take into account each person’s tolerance and circumstances.

What happens during a chiropractic evaluation?

Before making any recommendations for chiropractic care, we evaluate each case individually.

The assessment may include:

health history interview;
physical assessment;
postural analysis;
spinal examination;
assessment of the movement;
tests specific to the chiropractic approach.

We also take into account existing diagnoses, relevant medical history, and any follow-up care the person may be receiving from other professionals.

When circumstances arise that require a different medical evaluation, we recommend consulting the appropriate healthcare professional.

Chiropractic Adjustments and Fibromyalgia

Chiropractic adjustments are part of the care we provide at our center when we determine that they are appropriate for the patient within the scope of chiropractic practice.

For people who are highly sensitive, the approach must be tailored to each individual.

We do not claim that an adjustment:

eliminate fibromyalgia;
correct the cause;
cure chronic pain;
normalizes neurotransmitters;
eliminate an immune disorder;
unblock the nervous system;
or replace the treatments prescribed by healthcare professionals.

Our goal is to help patients maintain realistic expectations about what chiropractic care entails.

Spine, Movement, and Well-Being

The spine serves a structural function and protects the spinal cord.

In addition, it works together with muscles, joints, and other structures to enable us to move and carry out our daily activities.

For this reason, from a chiropractic perspective, we pay special attention to the function of the spine and movement.

For a person with fibromyalgia, this care must be integrated into a much broader view of their situation.

Adapted exercise, certain psychological approaches, and, in some cases, medications are among the strategies that healthcare professionals can use to manage fibromyalgia.

An individualized approach for each person

No two people with fibromyalgia are exactly alike.

One person may primarily experience fatigue and sleep problems, while another may experience generalized pain, stiffness, or increased sensitivity to touch.

For this reason, at our center we avoid one-size-fits-all protocols or promises of specific results.

Before recommending any chiropractic care, we assess each person individually and clearly explain what our approach may entail.

Chiropractic Care in Mataró for People with Fibromyalgia

In the Dr. Marc Bony Chiropractic Center in Mataró, our approach focuses on spinal care and function from a chiropractic perspective.

People diagnosed with fibromyalgia can request an evaluation to learn about our approach and determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for their individual circumstances.

Chiropractic care should be viewed as a distinct field and not as a substitute for the medical diagnosis, monitoring, or treatment of fibromyalgia.

Would you like to learn about our approach to chiropractic care?

You can request an evaluation at our Mataró location.

We'll assess your individual situation and clearly explain what we do, what the goals of chiropractic care are, and whether our approach can be part of your personal care plan.

Important Notice

The information on this page is provided solely for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Chiropractic is not currently recognized in Spain as a licensed and regulated health profession under Law 44/2003 on the Regulation of Health Professions.

The chiropractic care provided at our center focuses on the spine, movement, the nervous system, and bodily function from a chiropractic perspective.

We do not diagnose or treat fibromyalgia or other medical conditions, and our care is not a substitute for care provided by the appropriate healthcare professionals.

If you experience new, persistent, or severe symptoms, or significant changes in your health, consult the appropriate healthcare professional.