by Dr. Adam Hughes
That is what most doctors wind up telling their patients. Then patients are left searching for answers… most of the time online. Which is a little scary because anyone can post information online. The symptoms and problems of Fibromyalgia are very real, but it is far from just a “muscle” problem. In many cases, Fibromyalgia is stemming from a combination of both neurological and metabolic imbalances.
At the Kingen Chiropractic Wellness Center, fibromyalgia is one of our specialties. We treat fibromyalgia patients every week with neurological and metabolic treatments.
When the mesencephalon (the upper region of the brainstem) is working overtime, it will send information down the IML (a spinal tract of the spinal cord) to the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands will then secrete a hormone that causes stimulation of the type II nociceptive fibers of the muscles. Basically, the pain fibers of your muscles will be stimulated. This is why patients with fibromyalgia have terrible muscle soreness.
The sleep center is housed in the brainstem as well. Many patients with fibromyalgia complain of insomnia. The vagus nerve, which is located right near the mesencephalon, goes to the gut and intestines. This is why patients with fibromyalgia will also suffer with IBS and other digestive issues along with their muscle pain. Many fibromyalgia patients suffer from chronic headaches (migraine and tension headaches); this is because when the mesencephalon is over working, it causes the blood vessels in the brain to dilate. When they dilate, the nerve mesh surrounding the arteries is irritated = headaches.
The great thing about your Brain is that it is very “Plastic”, and no, that does not mean your brain is a toy. “Neuroplasticity” is a term given by scientist over the last 10 years that basically just means that if you stimulate the brain in the right way, you can create new connections between the neurons (nerve cells), and improve communication between different areas of the brain and the rest of your body. Think of it as Brain Based Rehab. Brain Based Therapies can be very simple, yet very effective in getting your brain to function better. This is a great and helpful thing for patients with Fibromyalgia!
So, is fibromyalgia really in YOUR head? Yes, but not how your MDs and primary care physicians are referring to.
To learn more about Neurological and Metabolic solutions to treat Fibromyalgia, Dr. Adam Hughes, DC will be giving a free seminar on November 7th at 6:30. Seating is limited, so call 314-646-0013 to reserve your seat today!