How Do I Tell If I Need Upper Cervical Care?

by Dr. Ben Hill

I’m going to venture to guess that, if you’re suffering from something that’s not obviously related to your spine that you didn’t wake up this morning and say,

“Eureka! I bet that upper cervical doctor is just the guy who can help.”

I’ll take no offense. In fact, it’s common and completely understandable that one doesn’t typically equate chiropractic care with conditions like digestive disorders, migraines,  ADHD, fatigue, fibromyalgia … or even multiple sclerosis. But when you consider that the nervous system controls just about every function in your body, it stands to reason that when something is compromising it? All sorts of not-so-great things can happen. It also stands to reason that, if we can reverse this situation, you may realize considerable relief or resolution to pain or conditions that are affecting your everyday life.

So how do you know if an Upper Cervical Chiropractic may be right for you? 

Here are a few questions to help you evaluate:

• Do you suffer from headaches, earaches or backaches that medication or other treatment is not alleviating or resolving?
• Do you or one of your family members regularly struggle to sleep through the night? Is the exhaustion leading to other health or relationship problems?
• Do you have ongoing digestive issues that haven’t been solved through medication or dietary changes?
• Do you have a child who isn’t responding well to ADHD, colic or autism-related medications or treatment?
• Are you experiencing ongoing pain in your body?
• Do you have vertigo, dizziness or  unexplained problems with your vision or hearing?
• Are you at your wit’s end because nothing you’ve tried so far has helped you?
• Do you want to feel confident that you can, and will, get your old self back?

If you answered “YES” to at least one of these questions, I may have a care plan that delivers the answers you’ve been looking for. While upper cervical care isn’t often the first thing people think of when struggling with frustrating, debilitating and life-altering conditions, we may well be the answer that’s (finally) the one for you.

 Can’t hurt to check it out, right?

(Editor's note: Remember the objective of upper cervical care is to correct head neck misalignment that is interfering with proper brain to body communication. When this is corrected the body functions at a higher level and can often correct other problems more efficiently on its own. Please do not confuse upper cervical care as a treatment for any condition, disease or symptom.)

Car Crashes, Vertigo, Migraines and Upper Cervical Care

More Research Linking Migraine Headaches, Vertigo and Car Crashes

A recent case study from the Blair upper cervical chiropractic group reveals additional evidence linking head and neck trauma to migraine headaches and vertigo.  This case study is another example of what the upright MRI research is revealing. 

Here’s a quote from Dr. Lenarz’s case report: 

A 54 year-old female patient entered the office with complaints of migraines 1-2 times per week and extreme chronic neck pain and vertigo for the past 10 years. She was injured in a motor vehicle accident ten years prior to her first visit in our office.  The patient was seen 19 times over a period of 12 weeks. She received 3 upper cervical corrections during this time. The patient reported having 1 migraine 2 weeks after the first correction. Since that time, she has reported no migraine episodes, neck pain or vertigo.

Dr. Scott Rosa, upper cervical chiropractor from New York has been doing some amazing research with upright MRIs.  He’s been able to show that when someone has a misalignment in the upper neck it is actually changing the flow of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) to, from and through the brain.  CSF is the fluid that lubricates the brain and spinal cord.  This research is helping scientists to explain the results upper cervical chiropractors are seeing in their offices every day.

The upright MRI technology can show the obstruction at the first few bones in the neck and how this misalignment causes a backup of CSF and increased intracranial pressure. When the misalignment is corrected by an upper cervical procedure such as NUCCA, the studies show that the pressure decreases by 28.6%!  And the CSF flow becomes normal.

These changes in CSF, blood flow and intracranial pressure are likely linked to the results upper cervical chiropractors see with migraine patients and several other conditions, especially after a history of head or neck trauma.

(Editor's note: Remember the objective of upper cervical care is to correct head neck misalignment that is interfering with proper brain to body communication. When this is corrected the body functions at a higher level and can often correct other problems more efficiently on its own. Please do not confuse upper cervical care as a treatment for any condition, disease or symptom.)

Can Upper Cervical Care Help Patients With Dizziness?

Can Neck Problems Cause Dizziness?

by Dr. Bill Davis

Vertigo, dizziness, disequilibrium and many other of these types of conditions can be directly related to old head and neck injuries that have never been properly addressed and the underlying damage to the upper neck has led to dysfunction in the ears, the balancing system of the body or both.

When the head or neck is injured the upper neck (Atlas & Axis) frequently become twisted and misaligned leading to a slight displacement of the head…sometimes by as little as 3/4 of a degree.  Once the heavy head (10-14 lbs) is tilting to the side the brain has to compensate for that change through the righting reflex to keep the eyes and ears level with the horizon at all times.

The entire structure of the body will twist and tilt in order to compensate for those upper neck misalignments and head tilt.  Eventually leading to pressure building up into the nerve system.  The area that is first impacted by these problems is the brain stem area, which is just basically a part of the brain that extends down into the spine and connects the the spinal cord.

The brain stem area is a key to the balance of our bodies.  This upper neck area has more pressure sensors the anywhere else in the body that feed information into the brain stem and the brain.  Also the brain stem send messages via the cranial nerves to the ears for balance as well.  Blood flow is also effected when the brain stem function is altered.

When someone is suffering from vertigo, dizziness, or disequilibrium, the brain stem is frequently involved.  Upper neck misalignments alter the brain stem function and lead to these types of problems.  When these old injuries are dealt with by the correction of the head position by a precise upper cervical corrective procedure such as NUCCA, the healing process can begin.

Holding the corrections is the key to healing, not having your spine adjusted 1000′s of times!

Now here is an example…Terry is in property management and is also an avid Bicyclist, riding up to 100 miles per week.  When he began to develop vertigo it was about 2 years after he had taken a pretty significant fall from his bike and had a motorcycle accident that seemed to make the dizziness and vertigo attacks much worse.  To the point that he was concerned even about going up on a ladder at one of his rentals.  Here is his story…

I have been suffering from vertigo (dizziness) for 6-7 years, getting more constant as the years progressed.  I tried everything…Every doctor that I could think of, EENT, general doc, vertigo specialist and finally my last hope, a NUCCA (upper cervical) doctor.  Dr. Davis helped me almost instantly.  I have not been dizzy for 8 weeks!  Thanks Breath of Life for giving me my health back!!!

Now not all dizziness, vertigo and disequilibrium is related to head and neck traumas.  But if you have a history of those types of accidents then an evaluation with a qualifiedupper cervical specialist is very important.  If the underlying cause can be identified, what a difference it can make for your life!

(Editor's note: Remember the objective of upper cervical care is to correct head neck misalignment that is interfering with proper brain to body communication. When this is corrected the body functions at a higher level and can often correct other problems more efficiently on its own. Please do not confuse upper cervical care as a treatment for dizziness or any other condition, disease or symptom.)

Upper Cervical Care And The Patient With Brachioradial Pruritis

(Editor's note: Remember the objective of upper cervical care is to correct head neck misalignment that is interfering with proper brain to body communication. When this is corrected the body functions at a higher level and can often correct other problems more efficiently on its own. Please do not confuse upper cervical care as a treatment for Brachioradial Pruritis, vertigo, neck pain or any other condition, disease or symptom.)

Upper Cervical Care Helps Patient with Brachioradial Pruritis, Vertigo & Neck Pain - A Case Study

The Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, April 26, 2011 issue, published a case study documenting upper cervical care helping a woman with Brachioradial Pruritis, neck stiffness, and vertigo. Brachioradial Pruritis (BRP) is a nerve condition of the upper extremities characterized by intense itching, burning, and tingling sensations that often prevent the suffering individual from sleeping.

In this case, a 37-year-old woman described her condition as an intermittent bilateral itching with burning sensations to her arms for the past 9 months. She noted that she was getting progressively worse, and was now at the point that she was unable to sleep for more than 4 hours a night due to the intense itching. By the time the woman presented for care, her condition had gotten so bad that her lack of sleep affected her ability to care for her young children as well as work as a registered nurse. Additionally, her arms were itching so intensely that she would scratch them until they would bleed.

In addition to the severe BRP symptoms, the woman suffered from neck stiffness and vertigo (dizziness). The study reports that she was taking non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) several times per week for the neck discomfort. In the previous 6 months, she had also experienced 3 or 4 episodes of vertigo so severe that it caused nausea and vomiting. In her history, it was noted that 8 years earlier she fell down stairs injuring her head and neck, causing immediate numbness in both arms.

An upper cervical examination showed positive findings in postural abnormalities, thermal scans, spinal x-rays, leg lengths and ranges of motion. It was determined that this patient had nerve interference due to head neck misalignment. Care was inithttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifiated using specific corrections designed to reduce the misalignment and improve neurological integrity.

The results noted that after the woman's first correction, her dizziness had stopped. After the second, her symptom of itching diminished significantly that night. After her third, the woman stated that she was able to sleep for more than 6 hours without the discomfort of itchiness. After being under upper cervical care for 2 ½ months, she reported that all of the BRP symptoms had resolved. Three months into care, the study reported that the woman had a normal neck range of motion, no muscle spasms, and a 70 percent reduction in neck stiffness.

In their conclusion, the authors wrote, "Dramatic improvement in the symptoms associated with the condition is noted following the introduction of upper cervical care, concomitant with a reduction in vertebral subluxation."

Concussion, Headache, Vertigo?... Upper Cervical Care?

(Editor's note: Remember the objective of upper cervical care is to correct head neck misalignment that is interfering with proper brain to body communication. When this is corrected the body functions at a higher level and can often correct other problems more efficiently on its own. Please do not confuse upper cervical care as a treatment for concussion, headaches, vertigo or any other condition, disease or symptom. This is also a more in depth post of one that I posted previously. Thanks to Dr. Bill Davis for this more in depth look.)

Adapted from: Do concussions cause chronic headaches and vertigo?

by Dr. Bill Davis

For years I have been asking my patients if they have a history of head and neck injuries including, car accidents, falls, times where they have been knocked unconscious, had a concussion or stitches to their head.

Why?

When accidents and injuries tear loose the connective tissue that holds the spine in place it creates a weakness, which can cause the spine to break down and lock into a stressed position.

The area of the body that is the most vulnerable to injury and has the most far reaching effects is the upper neck. The top bone in the spine, the atlas sits right underneath the skull and when the tissues around it become stretched and damaged the weight of the head can be shifted from center.

Once the position of the head is altered the position of the eyes and ears is altered as well. The brain will initiate a reflex called the righting reflex in order to balance the eyes and the semicircular canals in the ears with the horizon.

The problem is now the head is slightly off center and the spine must adapt to that position by often twisting and turning the remaining structure of the spine. This can lead to tilting of the shoulders, the hips and imbalance all the way down to the legs leading to an unequal distribution of weight.

Body imbalance can lead to a variety of different health problems, but frequently has the same root cause…

The original head or neck injury created a misalignment of the Atlas bone at the base of the skull which led to the subsequent problems with the structure of the body, nerve and blood flow from the brain to the body.

Here is a great example from a recent research article published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ January 6, 2011

A 23-year-old female patient presented for upper cervical care five months after a slip and fall that resulted in a concussion. The patient presented with symptoms of vertigo and headaches consistent with post concussion syndrome. The patient had a longstanding history of headaches that were exacerbated by the concussion and a new complaint of positional vertigo that occurred immediately following the trauma. Significant body imbalances were noted including a leg length difference. Specific Upper Cervical X-rays demonstrated an upper cervical misalignment.

She began to receive Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic care and the headache and vertigo was gone immediately following the first adjustment. Post X-Ray evaluation showed a significant improvement in the alignment of the head and neck. The follow up examination the following day revealed a significant decrease in muscles spasm in the neck and the legs were balanced.

The patient’s fourth visit was two weeks following the first adjustment and at that time the patient reported a slight nagging headache had begun earlier that day, rated at 2/10, but she did not have any symptoms of vertigo. The patient’s care was continued on a frequency of twice per month for evaluations and progress monitoring. She was evaluated with Atlas Orthogonal protocol for necessity of adjustment and her symptoms were monitored at every evaluation. She continued to report a complete resolution of vertigo and intermittent headaches rated as 2/10 that occurred at an average of two hours/day.

Who do you know that has had a concussion? Do they have a chronic health problem? Is there head/neck misalignment and interference in brain to body communication limiting the ability for you to heal?

Only an upper cervical doctor could tell you.

Post Concussion Syndrome, Positional Vertigo and Headaches

(Editors Note: The following is an abstract from the research journal mentioned in our last post. A big thank you goes out to Matthew McCoy DC, MPH for his work on this journal and all his efforts for the profession. Enjoy the post and pass it along.)

Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care of a Patient with Post Concussion Syndrome, Positional Vertigo and Headaches

Alisha Mayheu DC & Matthew Sweat DC

Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ January 6, 2011 ~ Pages 3-9

CASE STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To outline clinical changes after (upper cervical) chiropractic care in a patient with vertigo, headaches and post concussion syndrome.

Clinical Features: A 23-year-old female presented for (upper cervical) chiropractic care five months after a slip and fall that resulted in a concussion. The patient presented with symptoms of vertigo and headaches consistent with post concussion syndrome. The patient had a longstanding history of headaches that were exacerbated by the concussion and a new complaint of positional vertigo that occurred immediately following the trauma. Radiographs ruled out fracture but were remarkable for upper cervical subluxation.

Intervention and Outcomes: The patient received upper cervical specific chiropractic care through the technique of Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic. Atlas Orthogonal protocol of upper cervical palpatory scanning and supine leg length analysis were used to indicate when an upper cervical adjustment was to be administered. Radiographic analysis was used to determine the misalignment and the exact vectors of the upper cervical adjustment.

Conclusions: Clinical findings suggest that upper cervical vectored manipulation was beneficial in this patient with vertigo, headaches and post concussion syndrome.

Meniere’s Disease Breakthrough

from www.redorbit.com

Ten years of Meniere's disease research by Dr. Michael T. Burcon results in elimination of vertigo in 291 out of 300 patients.

Michael T. Burcon, DC started researching Meniere’s disease (MD) ten years ago after having three MD patients quickly recover from their vertigo under upper cervical specific chiropractic care. His papers have been published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research and the textbook, Upper Cervical Subluxation Complex, a Review of the Chiropractic and Medical Literature, by Kirk Ericksen in 2004.

The First International Symposium on Meniere’s Disease was held in Germany in 1980. Subsequent meetings were held every five years in Boston, Rome and Paris. Dr. Burcon gave his first presentation on Meniere’s to medical doctors in 2005 at the Symposium in Los Angeles. Prior to that Burcon had presented his Meniere’s research to chiropractors. He later gave two presentations to the Prosper Meniere Society in Austria and one to the Politzer Society Meeting at Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Burcon presented his paper, “Cervical Specific Protocol and Results for 300 Meniere’s Patients,” to the Sixth International Symposium on Meniere’s Disease in Kyoto, Japan on November 16. His Session Topic was, “Novel treatment of inner ear diseases.” He also made himself available for patient consultations, technique demonstrations and interviews during his week in Japan. On Wednesday, Nov 17, he gave a demonstration at Dr. Wakagi's office in Kyoto.

Burcon has established a link between both Meniere’s disease and Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) with whiplash injuries that misalign the base of the skull with the top of the neck creating a lesion affecting the Eustachian tube and/or the Trigeminal ganglion. About half of these traumas are caused by vehicular traumas and the other half from injuries involving head trauma. Burcon believes that the correlation was not made because it takes an average of fifteen years from the time the patient was injured until the onset of symptoms.

Patients typically get diagnosed with MD or TN in middle age. Their injuries most often happened during high school or college years from a car accident, sports injury or fall on their heads. Few patients list these old injuries on their doctor’s admission paper work. In fact, they have often forgotten about them, believing they were not hurt if they were not admitted to the hospital.

Burcon Chiropractic hosted the Meniere’s Research Center’s 10th Annual Meniere’s Disease and Trigeminal Neuralgia Seminar in Grand Rapids, MI last June. Seventy doctors, patients and caregivers from five States and Canada participated. James Tomasi, author of “What Time Tuesday?” was the featured speaker. Next years seminar will be held in Ventura, CA, hosted by Dr. Jedidiah T. Smith.

Burcon has produced three Health Talk videos for GRTV. Copies of Health Talk are available free on DVD and USTREAM.

Upper Cervical Care Stories Of Healing: Part 3

Editor's Note: Here are 8 more stories of healing one last time from Dr. Margaret Banitch in Montclair, New Jersey. Again, please remember that upper cervical doctors do not treat any condition or disease. They are simply removing an obstruction to the body healing on its own. When this is accomplished and it stays that way the wisdom of the body can do amazing things

Michelle

I was diagnosed years ago with Meniere’s disease. I had severe vertigo and vomiting. I never knew when it was going to happen. I saw two ear specialists who prescribed steroids, other medications and steroid shots with no relief. The doctors told me I would have to learn to live with it. I suffered for 2 ½ years before I found out about upper cervical care and started seeing Dr. Margaret. Now I have gone months and even more than a year without any episodes. If I have the beginning of an episode I know I can get my neck corrected and go back to leading a normal life and not worrying if this is going to be the day I need to be taken home from work.


Sean

My 8 year old son injured his neck jumping off a boat in February 2009. He immediately reported neck pain and shortly after I noticed he developed facial tics. I also noticed he was having trouble focusing in school. We went to an orthopedist who x-rayed Sean, recommended tylenol / ibuprofen and said everything would be ok. I continued to search for an answer to his problems and found upper cervical care and Dr. Margaret on the internet. After his first adjustment there was dramatic improvement! The tics have disappeared and he is focusing better in school. Dr Margaret has helped him tremendously and has developed a great relationship with him. I have since started upper cervical care myself and have referred many family members and friends to Dr. Margaret with great results.


Joseph

My son was born 10 years ago with a rare genetic disorder, Hirschhorn syndrome involving severe developmental delays. Since seeing Dr. Margaret he has more verbal sounds and is walking better. I have noticed he is sitting up straighter. His other health care providers and therapists have noticed he has a better attention span and coordination.


Renee

I had severe neck and arm pain for 2 months following a fall in February 2009. In that time I saw 2 orthopedists, another chiropractor and a physical therapist with no relief. My problem was complicated by severe scoliosis and osteoporosis. After 2 visits to Dr. Margaret my neck was pain-free. After 4 visits I had full range of motion in my neck. I have also noticed better balance walking and more energy. It is interesting to me that my former chiropractor refused to continue treatment of me when severe scoliosis and osteoporosis was diagnosed, yet Dr. Margaret treated me without question and successfully.


Stacy

I have had chronic TMJ isuues, neck, arm shoulder and back pain intermittently for over 10 years. I saw TMJ specialists, chiropractors, ear nose and throat specialists and a neurologist with only moderate relief. I have only undergone treatment with Dr Banitch for one month but the change is evident! Remarkably I’ve needed only 2 neck adjustments and the pain is gone. I am more relaxed, no longer wake up with the jitters, sleep better and suffer no headaches. I think this upper cervical care is nothing short of miraculous!


Anna

I had fallen while rollerblading and felt my back was out of alignment... a concern due to my scoliosis. My doctor and pharmacist recommended I see Dr. Margaret. With the upper cervical adjustments I’ve experienced a completely unexpected benefit. My sinuses are sooo much better. I no longer go into a fog when a storm is brewing. I had no sinus infections this past winter like in the previous winters. This has been life-changing - no exaggeration! Aside from feeling less "crooked" and thus more able to do everything, the improvement in my sinuses has given me days and weeks back that I used to lose. I no longer have to worry about what the weather will be like when I have to work and be "on". I am so grateful to have found Dr. Margaret and love her staff as well.


Georgia

Nearly a year has gone by since you started treating me for the severe pain in my neck, back, spine and hip. I was in such bad condition that my posture could be compared to the leaning Tower of Pisa. Daily, I was wracked with pain and I forced myself to bear it. So much so, that after you eliminated the pain, I missed it for awhile. That was then, which brings me to now. Now, I can turn my head as I park my car, instead of my whole body. Now, with the exception of arthritis, I don’t remember the pain in my neck, back and hip that kept me awake at night. Now although I am 63 years old with the spirit of a 33 year old, sometimes, I can almost get my body to believe it. It once told me I was about 93. As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I am writing to thank you for giving me a new lease on life. When I count my blessings, you are high on the list.


Janice

For a little over 10 years I suffered with extreme back, knee and neck pain. Atleast once a year I was in physical therapy for one of my ailments. P.T. was at least 2-4 months long. One day my friend told me about Dr. Margaret. I was amazed how a simple, painless adjustment could relieve those horrible pains in my body. Now I know when my sciatica starts, my knees ache or I just don't feel right... I need an adjustment. Within 24 hrs, I am pain free. It has been life changing for me to have that horrible pain gone. I am so hooked on upper cervical care.

Signs and Symptoms Of An Upper Cervical Injury

These are the signs and symptoms that may indicate that you have an upper cervical spine injury, which may have gone undetected for some time. Remember these are just indicators but one should strongly consider being evaluated by an Upper Cervical Doctor if they are experiencing even just some of what is listed below. However, the posture, head tilt sign, shoulder height sign and ear symptoms will, in my opinion, make it a strong possibility that you do have such an injury.

1. Is your posture poor? Do you have rounded shoulders &/or forward head posture? Does your head feel heavy to hold?

2. Is your head tilted to one side and/or your head rotated to one side when you look in a mirror? This can be very subtle.

3. Does your nose or nasal septum deviate to one side? If so, you may find that it deviates towards the side to which your atlas has moved forward (e.g. nose deviates to the left; then atlas is forward on the left)

4. Is one of your shoulders lower than the other? Pull your shoulders back and down and look carefully for one lower than the other. Again it can be subtle.

5. Press firmly but gently with your thumb into the impression just below your skull at the top of your neck on both sides of the back of the neck. This is known as the sub-occipital area. Find the base of your skull and press the soft flesh around that area. Is this tender or painful for you?

6. Do you have some shoulder and/or neck pain/aches, which don't seem to go away?

7. Does your jaw click when you open your mouth? Further check on this; Put your pinkies (little fingers) into your ear canals and chew normally. Do you feel a bumpy dislocation like feeling? This should be a smooth action in your joints.

8. Do you have any lower back pain or mid back pain (under the shoulder blades)?

9. Can you move your head from side to side without pain or restriction? Is there a loss of Range of Motion (ROM)?

10. Do you have any sand paper, clicking or crunching sounds when moving your head from side to side in a 'NO' action?

11. Is your hearing a problem or do you have other ear symptoms (e.g. tinnitus, watery sounds, blockages, vertigo, Meniere’s Disease, otalgia, recurrent ear infections)?

12. Do you often get headaches or migraines?

13. Can you remember any trauma (even minor) to the head, neck or shoulders?

14. Was your birth difficult?

15. How’s your vision? – Sensitive to light, especially at dusk, floaters?

16. Do you experience any dizziness, vertigo or movement sensations? Does the ground seem to move away from you?

17. Do you experience any tingling and burning sensations especially in fingers and toes?

18. Do you have confirmed Scoliosis of the spine, from x-rays? Do you have one leg shorter than the other or is your pelvis higher on one side?

19. Have you had any x-rays, CT scans or MRIs taken of your neck? Do these reveal loss of normal neck curve), even a small amount?

How Long Will You Wait?

Allergies, Arthritis, Asthma, Back and Neck Pain, Bronchitis, Cancer, Chronic Pain, Constipation, Dizziness, Fibromyalgia, Frequent Infections, General Tension and Weakness, Headaches, High Blood Pressure, Indigestion, Kidney Disorders, Lack of Concentration, Low Blood Pressure, Menier’s Disease, Menstrual Disorders, Migraines, Nausea, Nervousness, Neuropathies, Sciatica, Sinus problems, Torticollis (Wry Neck), Scoliosis, Stiff Necks, Stomach Disorders, Ulcers, and Vertigo.

These are all problems and diseases that have improved while under Upper Cervical Care in offices around the world.

Now I will state that with the people with these conditions the Upper Cervical Doctor's goal was not to treat their problem or cure them of their disease.

The Upper Cervical Care goal is simple: To return the nervous system of the body, that controls everything, to more normal function. Once that was accomplished, with time, the patient did their own healing. Remember, if an Upper Cervical Correction were administered to a dead person nothing happens, it is only the living body that heals.

If you have any of the above health concerns or even some that may not be listed please don’t wait, check out more posts on this blog and find out what Upper Cervical Care can do for you.

Meniere's Disease: Discussions and Conclusions

by Michael T. Burcon, D.C.

All three Meniere's patients had a history of an automobile accident. All three showed evidence of upper cervical subluxation upon neurological examination, and all exhibited both evidence of a history of whiplash and an existing atlas subluxation in radiographs. All three had posterior and inferior left atlas listings.

It is possible that the anterior tubercle of atlas is irritating the nerve root of CN VIII as it exists from the upper lateral portion of the medulla oblongata, just anterior to the midline of the brain stem. Two patients reported that their ear problems were predominately on the right, the third case was bilateral. If atlas subluxates to the left, it could apply pressure on the right nerve root.

Medical research has established a connection between spinal trauma and numerous neurological conditions besides Meniere's disease, including Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Trigeminal neuralgia, epilepsy and migraine headaches.

Physicians often make the mistake of thoroughly examining only the area of chief complaint. When relevant, I believe it is prudent to start at the nucleus of the cranial nerve or center that supplies function to that area. For example, the brain stem, for balance disorders(CN VIII), irritable bowel syndrome (CN X, Vagus), high blood pressure (vasomotor center) and sleep disorders (reticular formation).

CONCLUSION

A case study is limited in its ability to provide conclusions. It is possible that the patients recovered through spontaneous remission or because they believed their problems had been discovered and improved, creating a placebo effect. The time span before chiropractic intervention and the long-term, clinically documented, neurophysiological improvements after initial adjustments weigh against these affects.

All patients with a history of vertigo and/or dizziness should be questioned about a history of trauma, especially whiplash from an automobile accident, contact sports injury, or serious falls, etc. Patient often forget these accidents, thinking that they were not hurt because they did not break any bones and were not bleeding. Patients with a history of both should be referred to an upper cervical specific chiropractor for examination.

Case 3: Upper Cervical Care and Meniere's Disease

CASE 3

by Michael T. Burcon, D.C.

HISTORY: Thirty five year old female presented with history of vertigo, swallowing difficulties, nausea, cervicalgia, cephalgia, double vision, occasional deafness, weakness and fatigue since 1996. She was working part-time out of her home, unable to drive or go anywhere. She reported having a minor car accident in 1991.

Diagnosed with Meniere's disease, TMJ dysfunction, rheumatoid arthritis and Arnold-Chiari malformation. Prescriptions included Duricef, Retin-A, Benzymicin and Antivert. Her father had been diagnosed with Becker's muscular dystrophy.

EXAMINATION: Leg checks demonstrated 1" right pelvic negative, 1" left cervical syndrome and positive C1 and C5 tests. Restricted range of motion with left lateral flexion. X-rays, video fluoroscopy and MRIs showed atlas to be inferior and posterior on left articulation, under lapped on the right, and inferior and posterior C5 and C6. Thermograph showed pattern of a break to the left at levels of C1 and C5.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: Within 24 hours of first specific atlas adjustment, all symptoms had subsided, except dysphagia, which had gotten worse. All balance tests were negative and cervical thermograph was straighter. Full cervical range of motion was restored.

Atlas adjustment has been repeated when pattern of subluxation has returned, a total of six times in the past two years. The swallowing problem has persisted.

Case 2: Upper Cervical Care and Meniere's Disease

CASE 2

by Michael T. Burcon, D.C.

HISTORY: Fifty seven year old female diagnosed with Meniere's disease in 1991. Onset was sudden and severe. She reported being paralyzed for a short time. Following this episode, she gave up driving. She was a passenger on a bus that was in a relatively serious accident in 1975.

Symptoms were relieved for two years by endolymphatic shunt surgery. Recent test revealed 50% hearing loss in right ear. Symptoms were currently returning most mornings and lasting into the afternoon. They were relieved by diet pills, valium and bed rest. She decided to try chiropractic as an alternative to a second shunt surgery.

EXAMINATION: Patient reported dizziness, nausea and stiff neck. Leg checks demonstrated ¾" right pelvic negative, ¾" right cervical syndrome and positive C1 test. Limited range of motion of cervicals bilateraly. Cervical thermograph showed right break at level of C1. X-ray analysis revealed atlas subluxation to be posterior and inferior on the left articulation, under lapped on the right.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: After specific atlas adjustment and rest, patient was post checked. She was balanced, all tests were negative and all symptoms were gone. Cervical range of motion was restored. Cervical thermograph was straight. After one year, patient is holding adjustment and symptom free.

Case 1: Upper Cervical Care and Meniere's

CASE 1

by Michael T. Burcon, D.C.

HISTORY: This 87 year-old female suffered frequent episodes of vertigo, tinnitus and nausea for 45 years. She was in a moderate car accident a few years before onset. During episodes, she walked around her home holding onto the walls, trying to keep her head level at all times. She reported numerous falls over the years, some resulting in broken bones.

She was diagnosed with Meniere's disease at University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor and Memorial Hospital in Chicago. She tried a variety of medications which would help her sleep, but did not help negate her symptoms. Surgical history of colostomy and right radical mastectomy noted. Four or five years prior to the onset of symptoms, she was a passenger in a car that rear ended another stopped vehicle while traveling approximately 45 mph.

EXAMINATION: Subject reported severe dizziness, blindness in the left eye, fullness in right ear, pain and stiffness of the neck and numbness in the left thumb. She was unable to lift her left arm above her shoulder. Exhibited limited range of motion with left lateral flexion and left rotation of the head. Edema was noted below the posterior base of the skull in the area of atlas.

Leg checks showed a 1" right pelvic positive and 1" left cervical syndrome. Modified Prill check elicited positive test for C1 subluxation. Cervical x-rays revealed narrowed disc spaces at multiple levels, particularly evident at C6-7. Minimal marginal spurring and bony overgrowth of facet joint margins. Atlas was subluxated posterior and inferior on the left articulation, under lapped on the right. Fifth cervical was inferior and posterior.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: Immediately following specific atlas adjustment, subject reported complete alleviation of vertigo and dizziness. When she awoke the next morning, the tinnitus was also gone. She held the adjustment and was symptom free for two years. Cervical range of motion was improved.

After suffering a minor stroke, closely followed by three compression fractures caused by osteoporosis, the subluxation returned and a second adjustment was given. That adjustment has held for six months.

Meniere's Disease and Upper Cervical Care

The basics of Meniere's and a little background.

by Michael T. Burcon, D.C.

Meniere's disease, or syndrome, is characterized by vertigo or dizziness, and some combination of four associated symptoms: nausea, inner ear pressure, low-frequency hearing loss and tinnitus. The cause of Meniere's disease is unknown, and the pathology is poorly understood. The attacks of vertigo appear suddenly, last from a few to 24 hours, and subside gradually. The attacks are associated with nausea and vomiting. The patient may have a recurrent feeling of fullness in the affected ear, and hearing in that ear tends to fluctuate, but worsens over the years. Tinnitus may be constant or intermittent.

Both the vestibular and cochlear nerves join the internal auditory meatus to form CN VIII, which enters the brain stem at the cerebellopontine angle. Meniere's is considered a common peripheral ailment, however it is often overlooked that although within the substance of the brain itself, the root entry zone of the eighth cranial nerve is considered a peripheral vestibular structure. An atlas subluxation may irritate this nerve root by compromising the size of the neural canal space. Rosenberg reported a case of cervical cord impingement observed with magnetic resonance imaging, bringing on signs and symptoms of medulla compression.

Also, dizziness related to perturbations in information received from proprioreceptors in the neck that feed into the vestibular system are not usually taken into consideration. This is a common result of even minor whiplash injuries. One theory has proposed that irritation of sympathetic nerves can elicit spasms within the vertebral artery, leading to decrease in blood flow to the brain stem.

The vertebral arteries reach the interior of the skull by ascending through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae, turning medially along the upper surface of the posterior arch of atlas and then penetrating the posterior atlantooccipital membrane and the underlying dura to enter the subarachnoid space. Subluxation of atlas may diminish blood flow through the vertebral arteries and their intracranial branches, which supply the spinal cord, medulla, cerebellum and inner ear via the labyrinthine artery.

Finally, internal pressures of the body, specifically that of the cerebrospinal fluid, are rarely taken into consideration. The fluid spaces of the inner ear are connected to the CSF by the cochlear aqueduct, believed to be patent in most humans, so that pressure changes in CSF are transmitted directly to the ear.

The auditory tubes, responsible for equalizing pressure in the middle ears with the atmosphere, are controlled by the Tensor veli palatini and Salpingopharyngeus. These muscles are innervated by the Pharyngeal nerve plexuses, which have a contribution from Cranial Nerve XII. The hypoglossal canal lies under cover of about the middle of each occipital condyle, intimate to atlas.

Most normal individuals cannot appreciate the devastating impact of vertigo. The patient perceives that the world is spinning around them. Vertigo disrupts every aspect of life, since the patient loses the ability to do anything normally, especially when movement is involved. It can totally incapacitate the individual, often confining them to bed.

During my first year of practice, three patients diagnosed with Meniere's started under my upper cervical specific chiropractic care. All three improved dramatically after their first specific chiropractic adjustment of their top cervical vertebra, atlas. Two years later, they remain symptom free.

Over the next few days we will share the specifics of each case.

A Show of Hands

Hi, my name is Margie. I want to tell you about my experience with Upper Cervical Care. I was known as the woman with the sack of pills. I limped into the office and had my consultation. The Doctor said, ‘I can help you!’

I have high blood pressure and have taken two pills a day for six years. I’ve been on an anti-depressant for 14 years. I’ve had fibromyalgia for nine years. I have hip pain. I’ve been on one heart pill and then another pill for vertigo. My ankles were so swollen I could hardly walk. I could hardly see because of the vertigo, and I could hear a person if he spoke loud enough. When he said he could help me, I said to myself, ‘Boy, is this guy crazy.’

Here is my experience within three days after my first correction:

I was sleeping all night without help. I lost six pounds of fluid. My hearing was so clear that it tickled when anyone talked loudly. My fibromyalgia pain was almost completely gone. My shoes were now too big (they fell off while I was walking!).

Within six weeks my eyes were fine, and I got my driver’s license renewed without glasses. Now after six months I no longer am borderline diabetic, I’ve lost six more pounds. My cholesterol is down. My blood sugar was 200 before the adjustment and my latest blood sugar count was 120. My blood pressure used to be 170/110 with the use of drugs and now is 122/78 and I haven’t taken any pills since February 18, 2000!

When people talk about having this pain here or that pain there, I don’t sit and agree with them. I tell them that I used to have what they do. I say to them, "Now let me tell you about my doctor. You should get an appointment."

Margie suffered with the following complaints as she described them to the Upper Cervical Doctor. The following results were obtained after Upper Cervical Care:

Original conditions and percent Improvement

Vertigo for 18 months. 95% Right knee pain 2 years. 95%
Elevated Blood sugar for 6 weeks. 95% Headaches – constant for 10 years. 95%
Ear pain for 18 months. 100% Fibromyalgia for 10 years. 95%
High blood pressure for 5 years. 100% Indigestion-heartburn for 10 years. 95%
Depression for 10 years. 100% Numbness in right hand – tremor 100%
Bladder control problem for years. 100% Sinus condition for 20 years. 75%
Vision loss for 6 years. 100%