Most people associate fibromyalgia with pain alone. However, sometimes the most debilitating symptoms are the cognitive ones which can include
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Forgetfulness
These symptoms are collectively referred to as brain fog (and sometimes as fibro fog when specifically referring to a fibromyalgia patient).
Other Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Besides pain and brain fog, patients also often experience symptoms such as sleep problems and fatigue. One suggestion for the cause of these problems, especially the cognitive symptoms, is that not enough blood is getting to the brain due to blood flow issues.
Suggestions for Fibromyalgia Patients
If you experience brain fog, you may have already heard some of these suggestions from a healthcare provider.
- Cut out caffeine – This can interfere with sleep and contribute to cognitive symptoms.
- Use a day planner/to-do list – This will help you to avoid forgetting important tasks.
- Maintain a routine – For example, always put your keys in the same place when you get home.
- Exercise – While the pain may make this tough, a daily, low-impact workout can help improve blood flow.
- Nutrition – A good diet is vital for proper brain function.
How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Can Help
Upper cervical chiropractors look to the neck to discover the root cause of fibromyalgia symptoms. A misalignment of the top vertebrae in the neck, the atlas, can restrict proper blood flow. By correcting the misalignment, proper blood flow to the brain can be restored. This often results in reduction or resolution of symptoms. Also, since upper cervical chiropractic does not involve the use of medication, this is a natural relief with no drugs or side effects.
References:
Fibromyalgia Center – Everyday Health. 11 ways to beat ‘fibro fog’. https://www.everydayhealth.com/fibromyalgia/11-ways-to-beat-fibro-fog.aspx (accessed 19 June 2015).
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Questions and answers about fibromyalgia. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/fibromyalgia/#b (accessed 19 June 2015).
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Breuwet, call our Honolulu office at 808-201-1324. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
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