Safely utilizing Chiropractic Support in
Treatments for Fibromyalgia 

Treatments for fibromyalgia can include good chiropractic care, but let me tell you, there are so many variables. 

And, as you know, there are good chiropractors and there are not so good ones. 

Chiropractors cannot fix your fibromyalgia, that is what we are best at here at living smarter with fibromyalgia, however a good one can help you with every day
spine and joint care. 

Some people rave about their chiropractor, while others have tried a few and say they will never go back. 

I believe, like any other therapy, it depends greatly on the practitioner. 

I have had some good DC's over the last few decades I've been getting chiropractic care, but I have also had some that were not good for me, and even caused injury.

Finding good chiropractic care might be daunting if you have had negative experiences, but it does bear some persistence.

You never know when it is the right time, and you find someone who can help with proper body and spine alignment, subluxation, chronic pain from fibro, injury,
or uneven leg length. 

My experience with Chiropractic Care 

I first went to a chiropractor after a car accident when I was about 20 years old. I had hurt my neck, and they put me in a neck brace for a few days. 

 I remember having a level of distrust in the chiropractor. 

It took me many years to find a DC I was comfortable with.

Although I must say, I've had a lot of "issues" come up over the years, like my chiropractor having strong cologne on their hands from touching the neck of the previous patient, or very arrogant chiropractors who are not willing to work individually. 

When I would leave with cologne on my neck and clothes, that was not ok. I had to get creative and ask her to wear gloves or I started bringing in baking soda, and asked her to wash her hands with that before my appointment. 

Chiropractic Care for the Neck
with Fibromyalgia 

If you have read our Neck Pain article, you likely know our protocols regarding the neck and restoring natural curvature. 

This is one of the most important points I often revisit regarding the upper body.

With fibromyalgia, tender points, trigger points, and the tendency to have a forward leaning neck, I believe it is essential to always work on restoring curvature first.

This will also help to maintain the adjustments, and avoid pain after adjustments. 

Refer to our neck pain protocols in that link above anytime. 

Considerations with Chiropractic Care

As I mentioned above, I have personally been hurt by Chiropractors, even some who claimed to cater to fibro people's special needs. 

It is so important to go slow, communicate your needs, and never assume they know YOUR body until they have worked with you for a certain amount of time. 

My favorite D.C has been practicing for over 30 years, and I have a greater trust level with her, but I still have to communicate my needs, as they may even change over time. 

I actually don't like EVERY part of the adjustment that she wants to do, so I have to really be assertive. 

Never allow a chiropractor to do something just because it is part of
their normal routine. 

I find the neck adjustment, lying on my front side, very helpful and safe, but when she wants me to turn on my side, well it just doesn't feel right for me. 

Being assertive is key. 

Also, be aware of DC's who claim cures or are pushing a lot of supplements. 

The Nervous System/Adrenals and 
Chiropractic Care 

One thing to be aware of with fibromyalgia and chiropractic care, is that it can be easy to over stimulate the body, adrenal glands, and the nervous system. 

If you ever leave your appointment feeling over stimulated, and you can't quite put your finger on why, it could be the touch or adjustment on certain areas of the back. 

We want to stay away from the adrenal gland/kidney area. This goes for massage therapy as well.

Instead of getting on the kidney/adrenal area, it is best if they do the two thumb technique right on/around the spine, this helps calm the nervous system. 

Be very assertive with your therapist. 

Best Time of Day for a Chiropractic Adjustment?

Is there a best time of day to get an adjustment? 

Some people may not find one time better than another, but I personally find that late morning or afternoon works best. 

Let the body naturally work out any stiffness from lying down all night. 

If your D.C. only works in the morning for example, see if you can be the last appointment. 

Use moist heat or alternating hot and cold therapy after appointments to keep the blood flowing. (5 minutes of each for 2-3 intervals) 

Let me know your chiropractic experiences in the Facebook comments. 

Lisa (practitioner, trainer, long time fellow fibro) 

Related Articles :
Fibromyalgia Neck Pain 

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