Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, is characterized by cramping, diarrhea, and/or constipation. There is no specific test for IBS. It is diagnosed by ruling out any other existing conditions. Brain imaging of patients with IBS reveals a loss of brain tissue. The patterns shown are similar to fibromyalgia and other similar chronic pain conditions.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia (FM) is known for causing widespread pain, extreme tiredness, irregular sleep patterns, and stiffness. This is another disease that is diagnosed through exclusion, as there is no specific test for it. Recent research seems to suggest that the central nervous system is malfunctioning in those suffering from fibromyalgia. A study comparing 10 women with fibromyalgia and 10 women without fibromyalgia revealed that brain tissue was reduced in those with the disease. A second study performed shortly afterward, also involving patients with fibromyalgia, revealed that while they were sleeping, there was no REM sleep registered. Once again, this can be due to a malfunction of the central nervous system. Why is there a problem?
The Neck
What does the neck have in common with FM and IBS? It is very likely that a head or neck injury caused a misalignment, and this may be the underlying cause of both of these conditions. Misalignments of the upper neck can place undue pressure on the spinal column and, in turn, the central nervous system.
Research has revealed that the top bone of the neck, when misaligned, can hinder signals to and from the brain and the body. These misalignments can occur quite easily as the atlas bone, the top of the neck, is the most movable bone of the entire body. Therefore, it is more susceptible to injury. The injury could have occurred many years ago and may have been insignificant at the time. However, as time has gone on the damage often becomes worse.
Once we are able to work with our patients to correct the misalignment, many have reported positive results. Some have seen their symptoms decreased significantly while others have seen them go away entirely. Once spinal health is restored, the body’s natural healing ability kicks in. Our patients report feeling happier and healthier.
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