Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue in Boca Raton: A Whole-Body Approach to Chiropractic Care
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition marked by widespread pain, fatigue, unrefreshing sleep and cognitive difficulties often called fibro fog. It affects about 2 to 4 percent of adults, mostly women, and can overlap with chronic fatigue syndrome.
What is happening in the body
Fibromyalgia is not caused by damage to muscles or joints. It is understood as a disorder of how the nervous system processes pain, called central sensitization, in which pain signals are amplified. It often follows physical injury, infection or emotional stress, and it commonly coexists with irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, anxiety and depression. There is no single lab test, so diagnosis is clinical.
How it connects to the nervous system and brain
In fibromyalgia the brain and spinal cord turn up the volume on pain and sensory signals, and stress hormone and autonomic nervous system regulation appear altered. Sleep disruption worsens pain sensitivity. The upper neck's role in feeding position and tension signals to the brainstem makes neck strain a possible aggravating factor, and chronic muscle tension in the neck and shoulders is common.
The medical approach: medication and surgery
Treatment is multimodal. Medicines approved or commonly used include duloxetine, milnacipran, pregabalin and low-dose amitriptyline or cyclobenzaprine for sleep and pain. Opioids are generally not recommended. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps coping and pain processing. Surgery has no role in fibromyalgia itself.
The physical therapy approach
Graded aerobic and strengthening exercise is the best-supported treatment, starting low and increasing slowly. Therapists teach pacing, gentle stretching, water-based exercise and relaxation, and treat neck and back mechanical contributors. Overdoing activity can trigger flares, so gradual progress matters.
The acupuncture approach
Several trials and reviews suggest acupuncture can reduce pain and improve sleep and function in fibromyalgia, and some guidelines list it as an option. It is typically used alongside exercise.
General dietary approach
No specific diet cures fibromyalgia, but a Mediterranean-style pattern with vegetables, fruit, fish, whole grains and olive oil supports overall health and weight management. Limit alcohol and heavily processed foods, keep caffeine early in the day, and check vitamin D and B12 levels with your doctor.
The Specific Chiropractic approach
Dr. Hasson considers upper cervical misalignment as one possible source of nervous system stress and muscle tension. A gentle correction that is ultra-specific aims to improve nervous system balance, and some patients with fibromyalgia report less pain and better sleep. Results vary, and care is offered alongside medical management and exercise.
When to seek care
See a doctor for unexplained weight loss, fever, joint swelling, muscle weakness or severe depression. If you have thoughts of self-harm, call or text 988.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak with your medical doctor about medications, surgery and diet changes. Chiropractic care does not replace medical care, and results vary from person to person.
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