Fibromyalgia and neck pain

How can a spinal problem possibly contribute to your fibromyalgia symptoms? As with many disorders, especially pain, the nervous system is involved. The nervous system can get affected through structural changes in the spine. The classic example is the lumbar disk bulge producing a painful sciatic nerve, but there are also other ways that problems in the spine interfere with the function of nervous system.

When viewing the neck from the side, there should be a forward curve with your head above your shoulders, not in front of them. When forward head carriage is present or there is a flattening of the curve, there is additional strain to the upper cervical spine and spinal cord, allowing delicate nerves to be compromised. Chiropractic care can improve your posture when this forward head carriage is present.

The atlas is the first vertebrae of the cervical spine. This small bone supports the weight of the skull and is necessary for the great rotational range of motion of the neck. It surrounds the spinal cord and as it displaces, it can also pull or tether the spinal cord through attachments of ligaments. This causes irritation to the nervous system.

During neck trauma, the head and neck can be put through a violent range of motion that causes the soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments) to tear. Blows to the head, childhood or sports injuries and even non-traumatic stress like poor sleep posture, can cause the upper cervical vertebra to displace, injuring the soft tissues of the joint. Swelling and inflammation can also be a source of irritation to the nervous system. Scar tissue can develop after trauma, which may affect the precise movements of the upper neck.

These disorders can be assessed through X-rays. Range of motion tests are necessary to see how your function may be affected. In some patients, fibromyalgia symptoms can improve substantially. However, most people will need a comprehensive approach that also incorporates an exercise program and nutritional support. Chiropractic care is a natural alternative for those who wish a drug-free and non-invasive approach. It carries few risks of side effects and is balanced by the potential to help patients who also have spinal disorders contributing to their poor health.

For more information contact Dr. Wendy at haydenhealth@gmail.com.