Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by a wide variety of symptoms, particularly persistent fatigue that is not relieved by sleep or rest. Studies completed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show that between one and four million Americans suffer from chronic fatigue. At least a quarter of these are unemployed or on disability because of this disorder.

While diagnostic criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome were developed by the CDC in 1994, the cause or causes of the disorder are still unclear. People with chronic fatigue often have to do their own research and consult several medical experts before a diagnosis can be made. These factors make this condition particularly frustrating for those suffering from its symptoms.

Chronic fatigue syndrome occurs when an otherwise normal, healthy person begins to exhibit the following symptoms:

• Mental/physical exhaustion;
• Memory/concentration problems;
• Sleep disturbance;
• Muscle/joint pain;
• Headache;
• Tender lymph nodes;
• Sore throat;
• Irritable bowel symptoms;
• Psychological symptoms, including depression and irritability;
• Night sweats and chills;
• Visual disturbances;
• Sensitivities and allergies to odors, foods, chemicals, medications, or noise; and
• Dizziness, balance problems, or difficulty maintaining an upright position.


A Lack of Conventional Medical Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There are currently no medications that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use with chronic fatigue patients. Although there is no standard treatment for the disorder, medical doctors tend to prescribe low doses of antidepressants; anti-inflammatory agents; antimicrobial drugs (including antivirals and antibiotics); nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); blood pressure medications; and immunologically active drugs, such as isoprinosine. As is the case with all medications, any one of these drugs has potential side effects that could affect the body negatively.

Energy Levels and the Spine

There is a direct link between the spine and energy levels. When the spine is unbalanced, fatigue is often the result. The 24 movable vertebrae, as well as the sacrum, hips, and pelvis, need proper alignment in order to make efficient use of energy. With proper posture, the body is positioned in such a way that the least amount of strain is placed on supported muscles and ligaments while in any position. This prevents fatigue because muscles are being used more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy.

Any type of misalignment or unbalance (for example, having one leg shorter than the other) could translate into a considerable amount of wasted energy. The alignment of the neck and the shape of the neck are particularly important. While the head weighs between ten and 14 pounds, a misaligned neck could create an additional load of exponentially increasing pounds to the supporting tissues; fatigue can be exacerbated when the body is carrying an extra 20 or 30 pounds.

When the spine is healthy, the nervous system keeps the flow of energy between the brain and nerves balanced. If the spine is unbalanced, it creates a situation in which the body experiences physical and emotional fatigue, as well as a lowered immune response.

Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome at Monmouth Pain and Rehabilitation Center

Chiropractic treatment is particularly relevant for patients suffering with chronic fatigue syndrome because the practice recognizes the relationship between the central nervous system and the functions of the body. In the case of chronic fatigue, chiropractic care would begin by locating and eliminating the intrusions in the nervous system that are the origin of symptoms. Fixing the misalignments (subluxations) in the spine that are causing these intrusions helps the body heal itself and return to normal, healthy functioning without the use of medications.

The team of chiropractors at Monmouth Pain and Rehabilitation use a variety of established techniques to treat spinal misalignment. The facility uses the most advanced and effective methods, including Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP), an innovative, scientific approach to determining the most effect treatment for each specific case.

All evidence indicates that the sooner a person suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome is treated, the better the chance of improvement. This means early diagnosis and treatment are important. Monmouth Pain and Rehabilitation Center has the tools to treat the common causes of chronic fatigue; visit our facility for a free consultation to see how we can help eradicate your symptoms and allow you to return to a healthy and active life.