Understanding Fibromyalgia — and How Chiropractic Care Can Help Naturally
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, poor sleep, and heightened sensitivity throughout the body. Many people in Plano, Murphy, and Richardson, TX describe it as feeling like they “hurt all over” with no clear injury or cause. Because symptoms can come and go, and often don’t show up on standard tests, fibromyalgia can be frustrating and isolating.
Modern research suggests that fibromyalgia involves changes in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals. When the nervous system is overstimulated or out of balance, normal sensations can be perceived as painful, and the body can have difficulty resting, healing, and recovering. This is why supporting the nervous system is so critical for natural relief of fibromyalgia symptoms.
Chiropractic care, especially a neurologically based chiropractic approach, focuses on restoring proper communication between the brain and body by correcting spinal misalignments (subluxations) that interfere with nerve function. At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we work gently and specifically with the spine and nervous system to help patients with fibromyalgia experience better mobility, decreased tension, and improved overall function.
What Causes Fibromyalgia?
There is no single known cause of fibromyalgia, but most experts agree it results from a combination of nervous system dysregulation, physical stress, emotional stress, and lifestyle factors. Over time, these stressors can alter how the brain interprets pain and how the body responds to normal daily activity, leading to chronic, widespread discomfort and fatigue.
Central Nervous System Sensitization
Fibromyalgia is closely linked to an overactive or “sensitized” central nervous system. When the spinal cord and brain are constantly bombarded with stress signals, they can begin to overreact to even mild stimuli. By focusing on the spine and nervous system, Vita Nova Chiropractic aims to reduce this overload and support healthier nerve communication.
Postural Stress and Spinal Misalignments
Long hours sitting at computers, repetitive movements, car accidents, or old injuries can lead to spinal misalignments and poor posture. These misalignments, known as subluxations, can place abnormal pressure on joints, muscles, and nerves, aggravating fibromyalgia pain and stiffness.
Inflammation and Muscular Tension
Chronic low-grade inflammation and tight, overworked muscles can increase overall body sensitivity. Tense muscles around the spine and shoulders can contribute to tender points and trigger areas that fibromyalgia sufferers commonly report.
Disc Pressure and Nerve Irritation
When spinal discs are under excessive pressure or not moving properly, they can irritate nearby nerves. This irritation may amplify pain signals traveling to the brain and worsen fibromyalgia flare-ups, especially in the neck and lower back.
Repetitive Stress and Lifestyle Demands
Repetitive work, lifting, prolonged standing, or inadequate rest can overload the body’s recovery systems. Over time, this can contribute to the chronic fatigue, achiness, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.
Emotional Stress and Autonomic Imbalance
Ongoing emotional or mental stress can keep the body in a “fight or flight” mode. This autonomic imbalance can increase muscle tension, disrupt sleep, and heighten pain sensitivity, all of which are commonly seen in fibromyalgia patients.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia symptoms can be different from person to person, and may flare up with stress, weather changes, or overexertion. Many people in Plano, Murphy, and Richardson come to our office after years of unexplained symptoms.
- Widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness
- Chronic fatigue and low energy
- Morning stiffness or feeling “sore all over”
- Sleep disturbances or unrefreshing sleep
- Headaches or migraines
- Neck, shoulder, and back pain
- Difficulty concentrating (“fibro fog”)
- Increased sensitivity to touch, temperature, or pressure
- Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort
- Digestive upset or irritable bowel–type symptoms
- Restless legs or tingling sensations in arms or legs
- Heightened response to stress and fatigue after minimal activity
How Chiropractic Care Helps With Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia chiropractors focus on the spine and nervous system to remove barriers to healing. When vertebrae are misaligned or not moving correctly, they can create subluxations that interfere with nerve signals traveling between your brain and body. This nerve interference can contribute to abnormal pain processing, muscle tension, and fatigue.
Through gentle, neurologically based chiropractic adjustments, we work to restore proper spinal alignment and motion. This helps improve nervous system communication, so the brain receives clearer, more accurate information from the body. As nerve interference decreases, many people notice better mobility, reduced muscle tightness, and more consistent energy.
Chiropractic care also supports natural inflammation reduction and improved joint function. By aligning the spine and reducing mechanical stress on the body, we help create an environment where your body can better regulate pain, relax, and heal from the inside out—without drugs or invasive procedures.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia
- More natural, drug-free relief for fibromyalgia pain
- Improved spinal alignment and posture
- Reduced muscle tension, tightness, and trigger points
- Enhanced nervous system function and communication
- Better sleep quality and relaxation
- Increased mobility and flexibility
- Decreased frequency and intensity of flare-ups
- Support for stress reduction and overall well-being
- Personalized care tailored to your specific patterns and needs
The Brain-Body Connection — Why Fibromyalgia Affects More Than Pain
Your brain and spinal cord form the control center of your entire body. When the nervous system is under excessive stress or out of balance, it doesn’t just affect pain; it can also impact sleep, digestion, focus, and energy levels. That’s why people with fibromyalgia often report “brain fog,” fatigue, and mood changes in addition to widespread pain.
By correcting spinal subluxations and supporting the brain-body connection, neurologically based chiropractic care can help the nervous system function more efficiently. As communication improves, many patients notice benefits beyond pain relief—such as clearer thinking, more stable energy, and a greater sense of resilience in daily life.
At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we sometimes incorporate the Zone Technique, which focuses on balancing specific brain centers (or “zones”) to influence body systems like muscles, digestion, and nerve tone. This can be a powerful complement to care for those seeking natural relief for fibromyalgia.
How Subluxations Contribute to Fibromyalgia
Subluxations are areas of spinal misalignment or restricted motion that disrupt normal nerve function. For someone with fibromyalgia, subluxations can intensify pain perception, increase muscular guarding, and make it harder for the body to relax and recover. These misalignments often form gradually from poor posture, accidents, repetitive stress, or long-term tension.
When subluxations are present, the nervous system may receive distorted or excessive input from muscles and joints. This can contribute to central sensitization—the phenomenon where the brain becomes overly sensitive to pain signals. Over time, even light touch or gentle movement can feel painful.
By locating and correcting subluxations, chiropractic care aims to reduce this overload on the nervous system and help normalize pain processing. This can create a more stable foundation for healing, alongside other healthy lifestyle habits.
- Increased muscle tightness and trigger points around the spine
- Altered posture that strains the neck, shoulders, and lower back
- Heightened pain signals due to irritated or compressed nerves
- Reduced joint motion, leading to stiffness and fatigue with activity
- Difficulty relaxing or achieving deep, restorative sleep
Scientific Evidence Supporting Chiropractic and Fibromyalgia Relief
Chiropractic treatment for fibromyalgia: a systematic review (2009)
This review analyzed randomized clinical trials examining chiropractic/manual therapy for fibromyalgia. It concluded that the available studies were of poor methodological quality and found no convincing evidence that chiropractic care is an effective treatment for fibromyalgia. PubMed
Spinal manipulation for fibromyalgia: a narrative review (2025)
This more recent narrative review assessed the literature on spinal manipulation for fibromyalgia management. Authors noted that while a small portion of lower-quality studies reported benefit, the overall evidence remains inconclusive or negative — highlighting a lack of strong, reliable data to support manipulation as a definitive therapy. PMC
A preliminary estimate of dose and efficacy (2000)
This early clinical trial reported that a series of spinal manipulations were associated with reductions in pain intensity, improved sleep quality, and decreased fatigue levels in fibromyalgia patients. However, the authors noted that results were preliminary and recommended larger randomized controlled trials to confirm efficacy. PubMed
Chiropractic management of fibromyalgia syndrome: literature review (2009)
A comprehensive literature review commissioned by a chiropractic guideline group. The review found multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses — but no high-quality randomized controlled trials exclusive to chiropractic — concluding that evidence for spinal manipulation in fibromyalgia remains limited and not definitive. PubMed
Our Approach at Vita Nova Chiropractic
Comprehensive Consultation
We begin by listening carefully to your story—how long you’ve had symptoms, what makes them better or worse, and how fibromyalgia is affecting your daily life. We’ll discuss your health history, injuries, lifestyle, and goals so we can understand the full picture. This helps us tailor care specifically to your needs.
Neurological & Spinal Assessment
Next, we perform a detailed spinal and neurological evaluation to identify subluxations, postural imbalances, and areas of nerve stress. This may include orthopedic tests, range-of-motion checks, and neurological scans or assessments, depending on your case. For some patients, we also integrate the Zone Technique to evaluate which brain-body zones need the most support.
Gentle, Targeted Adjustments
Our adjustments are precise and gentle, designed to work with your body—not against it. We focus on restoring motion and alignment to specific areas of the spine to reduce nerve interference and muscular tension. Techniques are always adapted to your comfort level and sensitivity, which is especially important for those seeking fibromyalgia treatment.
Ongoing Support & Progress Tracking
As your care plan progresses, we monitor your improvements in pain levels, energy, sleep, and mobility. We’ll review your progress regularly and adjust your plan as needed. We can also offer guidance on posture, movement, and simple lifestyle changes to support long-term, natural relief for fibromyalgia.
Why Choose Vita Nova Chiropractic?
- Neurologically based chiropractic focus for more than just pain relief
- Experience caring for adults with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia
- Gentle, individualized adjusting techniques appropriate for sensitive patients
- Convenient location serving Plano, Murphy, and Richardson, TX
- Emphasis on the brain-body connection and whole-person wellness
- Thorough evaluations and clear explanations of your findings
- Drug-free, nonsurgical approach to improving function and quality of life
- Supportive environment that respects your pace and unique needs
- Commitment to ongoing education and evidence-informed care
Frequently Asked Questions — Fibromyalgia & Chiropractic Care
Can chiropractic care cure fibromyalgia?
Chiropractic care does not claim to “cure” fibromyalgia. Instead, it focuses on improving spinal alignment and nervous system function so your body can work at its best. Many people experience meaningful reductions in pain, better sleep, and improved daily function when subluxations and nerve interference are addressed. Results vary, but care is always centered on supporting your body’s innate ability to heal and adapt.
Is chiropractic treatment safe if I’m very sensitive to touch?
Yes, chiropractic care can be adapted for patients who are highly sensitive or in significant pain. We use gentle, specific techniques and always work within your comfort level. Communication is key—we will check in with you throughout each visit and modify our approach as needed, so care remains both safe and comfortable.
How many visits will I need before I feel improvement?
The answer is different for everyone and depends on how long you’ve had symptoms, overall health, and lifestyle factors. Some people notice changes in pain or mobility within the first few weeks, while others experience more gradual improvement. During your initial consultation at Vita Nova Chiropractic, we’ll outline a recommended plan and review your progress regularly.
Can chiropractic care help with my fatigue and sleep problems?
While chiropractic care is not a direct treatment for sleep disorders, many patients report better sleep and improved energy as their nervous system balances and pain levels reduce. By addressing subluxations and improving nervous system communication, the body is often better able to relax, recover, and move out of a constant “stress mode,” which can positively affect rest and fatigue.
Do I need a referral from my medical doctor for chiropractic fibromyalgia treatment?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a fibromyalgia chiropractor. However, we are happy to collaborate with your medical providers to support your overall care plan. Our focus is on helping your neuromusculoskeletal system function more efficiently, which can complement the work of your other healthcare professionals.
Ready to Get Relief From Your Fibromyalgia?
If you’re tired of living with chronic pain, fatigue, and frustration, there is a natural path forward. At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we offer personalized, neurologically based chiropractic care to help people in Plano, Murphy, and Richardson, TX find more ease, comfort, and resilience in daily life.
To schedule your evaluation and explore a more natural approach to fibromyalgia treatment, call us today at (214) 380-5387. We look forward to helping you take the next step toward better function and a higher quality of life.
Disclaimer
We do not diagnose or treat conditions, diseases, or symptoms. Our care is centered on improving the neuromusculoskeletal system by addressing spinal subluxations and the subluxation complex. Any improvement in overall health or function is the natural result of restoring proper spinal alignment and supporting the body’s innate ability to heal itself. For medical diagnosis or treatment, please consult a licensed medical professional.
