What Can An Upper Cervical Doctor Do For You?

by Drs. Molina and Salera

Click here for source article

What Do Upper Cervical Doctors Do?

Simple! The nervous system is responsible for the regulation and coordination of all the actions of the human body - including keeping you alive, happy and healthy. Your nervous system knows how to heal a cut, how to give you a fever when fighting an infection, how to give you a cough when you need to clear your lungs, and it even knows how to rid your body of cancer. Our only job is to keep your nervous system functioning properly and allow life to flow freely through your body! A healthy nervous system leads to a life of optimal health, increased human performance, and maximum human potential.

What is Upper Cervical Care?

Since the late 1920s, a small group of Chiropractic specialists have abandoned typical 'full-spine adjustments', limiting their practice to precise adjustments of two vertebrae, the Atlas and Axis; these specialists are referred to as upper cervical doctors. Unlike the other bones of the spine, which are anatomically locked into a certain position, the Atlas and Axis are located at the top of the neck (upper cervical spine) and are free to move around and therefore are uniquely vulnerable to misalignments. This small group of upper cervical doctors were committed to making the care as scientific, specific and efficient as possible, and realized that a misalignment of the Atlas and/or Axis may be one of the causes of decreased health and performance.

Understand: We care for, and maintain, the entire human frame (from the top of the head to the bottoms of your feet), but we only adjust the upper cervical spine. We have found, and the scientific research supports that correcting misalignments of the upper cervical spine improves function throughout the entire human body.

Why Is The Upper Cervical Spine So Important?

The central nervous system is responsible for all functions of the human body and is divided into three parts: the brain, brain stem, and spinal cord. The Atlas and Axis surround a portion of the nervous system referred to as the brain stem. Simply put, the brain stem is responsible for keeping you alive. It controls your immune system, emotions, vision, consciousness, hearing, balance, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, muscle tension, posture, hormones, and many other functions. Also, almost every single nerve that travels from the brain to the body has to pass through the brain stem.

               

Misalignments of the Atlas and/or Axis may potentially injure, impair, compress, and/or compromise the function of the Brain Stem. In other words, an Atlas and/or Axis misalignment can decrease the function of the nervous system. Without proper brain stem function, the human body could ultimately reach a state of sickness or disease but at the very least it will decrease human potential/performance. Upper cervical doctors are committed to detecting interference to brain stem function and, if present, removing the interference to the brain stem and improving health and function!

Can Upper Cervical Care Help Me?

Yes! Upper cervical care can help everyone - newborns to seniors, "sick" or healthy. Everyone will benefit from proper brain stem function. If you are sick, and we detect irritation to your brain stem due to an upper cervical misalignment, we can help you! If you are not "sick", and we detect irritation to your brain stem due to an upper cervical misalignment, we can help you reach your optimal potential!

               

Regardless of which condition you may have, or not have,

you need a good nerve supply.

Regardless of whether you're an athlete, or a couch potato,

you need a good nerve supply.

Regardless of whether you eat organic food, or eat junk food,

you need a good nerve supply.

Regardless of whether you drink water, or drink whiskey,

you need a good nerve supply.

Regardless of whether you have cancer, or back pain,

you need a good nerve supply.

And upper cervical doctors can help with that, they can help you attain and maintain a good nerve supply and that is important to anyone who want to reach closer to their potential in life.  

Avoid the Flu…Upper Cervical Care Can Help

The first line of defense against the flu or any contagious dis-ease is a healthy, fully functioning immune system. The immune system is affected by the nerve system through the connections with the endocrine and the autonomic nervous system. Stressful conditions lead to altered measures of immune function, and altered susceptibility to a variety of diseases. Many stimuli, which primarily act on the central nervous system, can profoundly alter immune responses. The two routes available to the central nervous system are neuro-endocrine channels and autonomic nerve channels. Upper cervical care improves this function by removing nerve interference and allowing brain to body communication to be resumed.

We encourage you to explore the wonders of upper cervical care if you currently know little about it. Who can benefit? – Everyone, from infants to seniors, mothers-to-be, athletes, and accident victims will benefit from a healthy spine and nervous system.

A Simple Concept

Upper Cervical Care is based on the universal law of cause and effect. For every effect or symptom (physical or mental), there must be a cause. Upper Cervical doctors focus their efforts on locating and correcting interference to the nervous system and this may be the cause of your health condition. Correcting this interference can allow the body to heal itself naturally. An Upper Cervical Correction is gentle and there is no forceful pulling, twisting or jerking motion of your neck. The correction is applied using a precise and controlled touch that allows the head, neck, and spine to return to their proper positions, restoring balance to the body and removing the interference.

What Is Upper Cervical Care?

Upper Cervical care is a rapidly growing form of chiropractic that focuses on the intimate relationship between the first two bones in the neck, called the Upper Cervical spine, and a vital portion of the nervous system, known as the brain stem. This relationship is essential to the body’s ability to preserve and restore health. Think of the brain stem as the control center that extends down an opening in the base of your skull, making it vulnerable to injuries or irritation around the upper neck. The brain stem works like a telephone cable with thousands of individual wires or nerve fibers sending signals back and forth between the brain and spinal cord to every cell, organ and system in the body. Every nerve impulse between the brain and the body must pass through the brain stem. The nervous system is responsible for all communication within the body. It coordinates and maintains your immune system, emotions, vision, hearing, balance, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, muscle tension, posture, hormones, and every other function. Irritation or pressure within the central nervous system can interrupt communication between the brain and the body, thus contributing to a variety of health problems.

The top vertebrae, the Atlas, is especially vulnerable to injury or misalignment because it is the most mobile segment of the spine. If neglected, an Upper Cervical misalignment may lead to irreversible spinal degeneration and chronic ill health. Upper Cervical misalignments can be caused by falls, auto accidents, sports, job injuries, concussions, physical or emotional stress, poor posture, or even birth trauma.

To learn more about Upper Cervical Care, please visit www.uppercervicalcare.com or www.upcspine.com.

Chronic Headaches and Upper Cervical Care

Many people aren’t aware of the relationship between upper cervical (neck) trauma and headaches. With all that modern science has accomplished, there are still more unanswered questions than answered ones. This is also true in the case of headache research. It’s been difficult to pinpoint the exact reason(s) why certain people suffer chronic headache pain. However, research is beginning to point toward upper cervical trauma as an underlying cause for many types of head pain, especially migraine, cluster and tension headaches.

The upper cervical area of the spine refers to the two vertebrae located at the top of the spine, directly underneath the head. C1 (known as Atlas,) along with C2 (known as Axis,) are chiefly responsible for the rotation and flexibility of the head and neck. Like the rest of the vertebrae, they are extremely vulnerable to injury and trauma, especially trauma to the head through auto or sporting accidents.

Because so many nerves transmit through the cervical region (to and from the brain,) trauma to this area results in problems to other parts of the body. This is where the relationship between the upper cervical area and headaches becomes evident. If these vertebrae become displaced, even slightly, chronic head pain can occur. Unless the neck injury is addressed, the symptoms persist.

Upper cervical care involves correcting the position of these injured cervical vertebrae, particularly C1 and C2. Realigning these vertebrae may reduce or eliminate many types of headaches.

The most common types of headaches for which people seek upper cervical care are migraine, cluster and tension headaches. Migraine headaches are characterized by intense pain on either one or both sides of the head. Pain is usually located around the temples or behind one ear or eye. The pain is so severe that it often causes extreme sensitivity to light, dizziness and may even lead to vomiting. Migraines may occur with or without ‘aura.’ Aura refers to visual symptoms which occur 10 to 30 minutes prior to the onset of the headache. They are usually in the form of flashing lights, lines, blind spots or even temporary blindness.

Cluster headaches almost always occur on only one side of the head. Their onset is so sudden and intense, cluster headaches have been described as “worse than childbirth.” In fact, the doctor who originally identified and researched cluster headaches characterized their pain as being able “to drive normal people to suicide.” Tension headaches are sometimes called ’stress headaches.’ They often start midday and usually consist of a dull, aching pain rather than a sharp, intense one. They start gradually and slowly build in intensity. Tension headaches may last anywhere from less than one to several hours.

Of course, not every headache falls into one of these categories. The type and degree of pain varies from person to person. However, if any headache occurs more often than on an occasional or sporadic basis, it’s safe to assume that there may be an underlying cause. Continually treating chronic and recurrent headaches with pain medication may temporarily ease the symptoms, but it won’t solve the problem.

Many of these headaches improve significantly during upper cervical care.  A first visit to an upper cervical doctor usually involves a spinal analysis and tests such as x-rays. From there, the practitioner will determine a upper cervical care will likely be of benefit to you. Patients almost always notice an improvement in symptoms, sometimes after only a few visits with the doctor.

(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.)

Upper Cervical Care?...What is that?

What is Upper Cervical Care?

By Dr. Eddie Weller

Upper cervical care is a strict discipline of Chiropractic that focuses on the upper most portion of the spine called the cervical spine. This vital area is where the brain and spinal cord meet forming the brain stem.  The brain stem is protected by a vertebra called the ATLAS or cervical vertebrae #1. This small, 2 oz ring-like vertebra is not only responsible for keeping your head on top of your spine, but more importantly, it protects the brain stem at the base of your skull. Upper Cervical doctors focus on this area because just about every nerve in our spine originates at the base of the skull. Most of us would agree that our body was divinely created, and our brain was programmed to send life to the body via the nerve system. If the top vertebra in your spine misaligns, healthy nerve signals from your brain get distorted by compromising your nerve system. This compromised nerve system is the precursor to the body malfunctioning. In time, sickness or disease will ensue.

“What types of conditions are seen?”

There are thousands of titles that man has given the body due to the symptoms that it presents when not functioning properly. I have seen conditions from Headaches to Herniated discs, Colic to Cancers, Reflux to Respiratory issues, Spinal fusions to Scoliosis, and from ADHD to IBS. Regardless of the condition, how long, or the severity of the condition, everyone benefits by having an optimum functioning nerve system.

“What is a good age to begin having my spine checked for upper cervical subluxation?”

Clients range from a few hours old to the elderly. Infants frequently experience birth trauma, toddlers are constantly falling and bumping their head, children play sports and fall off their bicycles, swings, etc. Just about everything we do in life causes some form of stress to our body. Physical, chemical or emotional stressors compromise our nerve system and cause our body to begin to break down. Regardless of one’s age or health condition, everyone benefits from having their nervous system functioning optimally. The upper cervical spinal correction is gentle, precise and tailor-made per each particular spine. At no time will your spine be twisted, popped or snapped, thus making it safe for your entire family.

“Is Upper Cervical Care compatible with my existing healthcare?”

Yes! Restoring nerve and spinal function is consistent with all healthcare options. We encourage you to continue to consult with any of your other healthcare providers to coordinate with your upper cervical doctor for optimum recovery and maintenance. At no time will upper cervical care interfere with any of your healthcare choices. In fact, upper cervical care will only enhance your healing abilities.

7 Important Things To Remember About Upper Cervical Care

1. Upper Cervical Care is a specific system of analyzing and correcting the upper cervical vertebrae of the spinal column.

2. The atlas and axis are the only vertebrae in proximity to the brain stem. When they misalign to the extent that they put pressure on the brain stem and or spinal cord they interfere with the vital messages being sent to and from the brain to all parts of the body.

3. Any part of the body can be effected when there is pressure on the brain stem or spinal cord because almost all of the nerves have to pass through this area before reaching the part of the body they innervate.

4. Each correction is unique to the individual. Upper Cervical Care looks to correct interference to health and healing, not just treat your symptoms.

5. Upper Cervical Care isn’t about twisting, popping or pulling the spine. It’s about a very specific correction for the greatest results with the least amount of care.

6. Upper Cervical Care utilizes neurological tests, heat sensitive instrumentation and other means for detecting when interference from head/neck misalignment is present or absent. A correction is made only when nerve pressure is present.

7. Upper Cervical Care utilizes precise x-rays of the upper cervical area to determine which way the vertebrae has misaligned so that a precise and specific correction may be tailored and administered to that individual.

The Medullary Lock: The Basis Of Upper Cervical Care

Editor's note: This is a little on the technical side so some readers may get lost with some of the terminology. For some people who are more skeptical and analytical minded this will serve to explain upper cervical care in a more detailed way.

Medullary Lock

by KCUCS.com

The Brain Stem, from a Neuro-Physiological standpoint is the center of life in the body. It is one of the first organized structures formed in embryo (1) and the last place life is evident before a person passes. The lower portion of the Brain Stem lies in the cradle where the head sits on the spine. Therefore, a Head/Neck Misalignment can potentially manifest in a wide variety of symptoms and diseases.

The Medullary Lock is an elaborate network of hard and soft tissue that acts as a stabilizing support for the medulla and upper spinal cord. It secures the medulla and upper spinal cord in the center of the spinal canal and foramen magnum in cases of trauma. Otherwise, even minor slips and falls could be devastating to the body.

With atlas and/or axis misalignment, the very safeguards the medulla and upper spinal cord are afforded through the Medullary Lock become the very mechanism creating cord distortion.

The development of the Medullary Lock was built upon the foundation of Dr. John D Grostic's Dentate Ligament theory (2).

To introduce the Medullary Lock we need to consider 4 basic components.

1. Upper Cervical muscles and their roles
2. Supportive ligaments and membranes and their roles
3. 4 known structures with external attachments to the Dura Mater
4. One structure internally attached to the Dura Mater and intimately connected with the cord.

Each of these components not only work together but are synergistic one with another. There are 4 pairs of muscles called suboccipital muscles (3-5) that act to extend, rotate and laterally bend the Upper Cervical Spine and head. They as well are called proprioceptive muscles because they are chalked full of proprioceptive nerve fibers and carry the responsibility of relaying info to the brain stem as to head position at any given time.

There is an elaborate ligament system that secures the Upper Cervical spine (6-10). The Alar ligament attaches to the lateral margin of the dens about half way up from its base and connects to the medial aspect of the ipsilateral condyle. In the neutral head position these ligaments are in their most relaxed position. The purpose of the Alar ligaments is to check lateral bending and head rotation on the contralateral side. The Alar ligaments do afford some protection for the medulla in checking extreme head rotation. When Alar ligaments are compromised the atlas slides lateral ipsilateral upon lateral bending.

The tectorial membrane works together with the alar ligaments providing stability for the upper cervical region in flexion. The atlanto occipital membrane provides stability in extension. The anterior longitudinal ligament and posterior longitudinal ligament as well provide craniovertebral stability.

The muscles, ligaments, capsules and membranes all provide support for the cranio vertebral region working synergistically. They provide stability and positional awareness for the upper cervical region.

Some of these structures; ligaments, muscles and membranes have direct connection with the dura mater at the cranio vertebral junction. There are four known structures external to the cord that attach to the dura mater.

1. Attachment of the dura mater to the foramen magnum (11)
2. Attachment of the dura mater to the posterior arch of C1 & C2 (11)
3. Connective tissue bridge between the rectus capitus posterior minor muscle and the dura mater (12)
4. Connective tissue attachments between the ligamentum nuchae and flavum to the dura (13,14)

There is one internal structure to the dura mater, the dentate ligament, which stabilizes the medulla and upper spinal cord within the spinal canal space in the upper cervical spine. Dr. Grostic outlined its detrimental effects (2).

The Medullary Lock is a stabilizing factor for the medulla and upper spinal cord (15). The 4 known structures described above external to the dura and the one internal, the dentate ligament, all work together as a network of support. Regardless in what position the head moves, whether rotation right or left, flexion or extension, lateral bending left or right, or any combination, it is important for the medulla and upper spinal cord to remain fixed within their position relative to the spinal canal and foramen magnum. This becomes even more crucial in the cases of trauma. Movement beyond a small amount in the vertical superior or inferior, anterior upon flexion, posterior upon extension or any combination can prove to be fatal. In fact, it is reported that most fatal car crashes are the result of a fractured atlas. In these cases, it is easy to see how the Medullary Lock could lose its integrity.

The Medullary Lock is a mechanism that provides security and stability for the medulla and upper spinal cord. However, because of its mechanism of support, when the upper cervical vertebrae are in a 3 directional torque misalignment, stretch and tension are exerted through the dentate ligaments exerting forces on the cord as described by Dr. Grostic.

Dr. Grostic's dentate ligament cord distortion hypothesis was consistent with what BJ Palmer described (16) in Volume XVIII, regarding cord pressure.

BJ Palmer expounded upon the original 4 elements of a subluxation:

1. Misalignment
2. Occlusion of a foramen
3. Pressure upon nerves
4. Interference to the mental impulse.

BJ explained the necessity of a 5th element (17) describing the subluxation as a 3 directional torque, misaligning on three planes simultaneous. In this manner, the misalignment becomes permanent more or less. It is the permanency of the upper cervical subluxation that leads to the weakened ability of the body to adapt to the environment and grow in dis-ease.

The longer a person is able to stay balanced in the upper cervical area, remaining relatively clear from nerve interference, the stronger the Medullary Lock becomes. The stronger the Medullary Lock becomes the more difficult it is for a person to subluxate and the higher the potential is for that person to recover from long term illness or simply achieve their highest potential health. The reverse is true, the more unstable the Medullary Lock, the more easily it will be for that person to subluxate and the more susceptible the person will be in 'growing dis-ease'.

It is our opinion that over adjusting or adjusting too often, especially with upper cervical procedures, can weaken the Medullary Lock.

KCUCS practitioners view their purpose as Upper Cervical doctors to be guardians of the Medullary Lock, to facilitate more stability of the Medullary Lock over a long period of time. Putting particular emphasis on substantial long-term growth in health and life. This is consistent with what BJ Palmer referred to Accumulative Constructive Survival Value (ACSV) (18). The greater the ACSV, the greater the ability to grow in health, adapt to the environment and overcome disease.

REFERENCES:

1. Sanes DH, Reh TA, Harris WA: Development of the nervous system, 2nd edit. 2006, Elsevier Inc. Burlington, MA ISBN: 978-0-12-618621-5.
2. Grostic JD: Dentate ligament - cord distortion hypothesis. CRJ Vol 1(1): Spring, pp 47-55
3. Gray H, Pick TP, Houdin R: Gray's Anatomy: The unabridged running press edition of the American classic. ISBN: 0-914294-08-3.
4. Hallgren RC, Fernandez C: Suboccipital muscle contribution to tension-type headache chapter 7 in diagnosis and management of tension-type and cervico-genic headache. Jones and Bartlett, Sudbury, Massachusetts, 2008.
5. Hallegren RC, Andary, MT, 2008. Under-shooting of a neutral reference position following cervical motion in the sagittal plane. J Manipulative and Physiol Ther, 31(7):547-552.
6. Bogduk N, Mercer S: Biomechanics of the cervical spine, I: normal kinematics. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon). 2000; 15:633-648.
7. Dvorak J, Panjabi M, Gerber M, Wichmann W: CT-functional diagnostics of the rotatory instability of upper cervical spine, 1: an experimental study of cadavers. Spine, 1987; 12:197-205
8. Penning L: Kinematics of cervical spine injury: a functional radiological hypothesis. Eur Spine J. 1995; 4:126-132.
9. Swartz EE, Floyd RT, Cendoma M: Cervical spine functional anatomy and the biomechanics of injury due to compressive loading. J Athl Train. 2005 Jul-Sep; 40(3): 155-161.
10. Singh AP: Biomechanics of upper cervical spine. Bone & Joint. Feb 10, 2010, http://boneandspine.corn/spine/cervical-spine/biomechanics-of-upper-cervical-spine/
11. Hinson R, Zeng ZB: Epidural attachments in the Upper Cervical Spine. Abstracts from the 15th Annual Upper Cervical Spine Conference, November 20-21, 1998, CRJ, 1999;6(1):31-32.
12. Hack G: Anatomical relation between the rectus capitus posterior minor and the dura mater. Spine, 20(23): 2484-2486
13. Shinomiya K, Dawson, J, Spengler DM, Konrad P, Blumenkopf B: An analysis of the posterior epidural ligament role on the cervical spinal cord. Spine, 1996; 21(18):2081-2088
14. Dean N, Mitchell B: Anatomic Relation between the nuchal ligament (ligamentum nuchae) and the spinal dura mater in the craniocervical region. 2002 Clin. Anat. 15:182-185.
15. Kessinger, R: KCUCS instrumentation module notes. 2009, Cape Girardeau, MO, pp 20-23.
16. Palmer BJ: The subluxation specific the adjustment specific, Vol. XVIII. 1934, Palmer School of Chiropractic, Davenport, IA. pp 322-323.
17. Palmer BJ: The subluxation specific the adjustment specific, Vol. XVIII. 1934, Palmer School of Chiropractic, Davenport, IA. pp 248-251
18. Palmer BJ: History repeats, Vol. XXVII. 1951, Palmer School of Chiropractic, Davenport, IA. pp 707-708.

Questions About Upper Cervical Care?

adapted from: Frequently Asked Questions About Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

By Dr. Brandon Harshe

Below are typical questions regarding Upper Cervical Care by new patients. If you find you have a question about Upper Cervical Care that is not addressed below, contact Dr. Harshe here (or myself and we) will be happy to answer it for you.

What is Upper Cervical Care?

Upper Cervical Care is a very specific technique in which a misalignment of one or both of the top two cervical vertebrae is reduced. These misalignments cause interference to nervous system communication between the brain and body. The specific direction of the misalignment is carefully analyzed so that restoring normal alignment of one of these two upper cervical bones will be as precise as possible. The specificity of Upper Cervical Care is what makes it so gentle. The top vertebra in your spine, the Atlas, is the only vertebra capable of freely moving and narrowing the opening in which the spinal cord travels through. Because of its relative instability compared to the other 23 vertebrae, the Atlas only requires a quick, gentle force to restore its proper position.

Is Upper Cervical Care painful?

No. As stated above, the specificity of the Upper Cervical analysis allows for a very gentle force to move the Atlas (C1) and/or Axis (C2) in a very specific direction. This allows the body to begin its return to its optimal spinal alignment and thus proper brain to body communication.

Will Upper Cervical Care make me sore?

Usually no. In some rare cases, people might experience more pain after an upper cervical correction simply because their spine is realigning, doing something it hasn’t done in a while, maybe ever. This is similar to exercising for the first time after being sedentary for years. In these cases, healing may take longer.

Is Upper Cervical Care a one time thing?

No. However, the goal of Upper Cervical Care is to have you holding your spinal alignment as long as possible. Depending on the person, this may be days, weeks, or months at a time. It is similar to getting in shape. You won’t achieve the level of fitness you desire after one workout, and the alignment in your spine won’t return to its optimal position after one office visit. It may change significantly, but in most cases, will take time to restore completely. Holding your alignment is what keeps the stress and tension off your spinal cord. This allows your body to function at its highest potential and heal itself optimally. We want you to only come in as often as your spine dictates to us, ie. if you are maintaining your correction on multiple visits in a row then we need to see you less.

Will Upper Cervical Care relieve my pain?

It depends. When the Atlas has become misaligned, it can cause endangering stress or tension on the spinal cord near the brain stem. This can result in any combination of symptoms; from conditions like low back pain and headaches to digestive issues and high blood pressure.

The goal of Upper Cervical Care is not to relieve your pain, but to open up the nervous system communication between the brain and the body so that your body can heal itself effectively. This happens by reducing head neck misalignment. This will not only reduce the stress and tension on the spinal cord, but may also balance the body by returning it to a more optimal alignment.

Often times when these things happen people experience an immediate reduction in their painful symptoms.

If you only practice Upper Cervical Care, does that mean you can’t help the back or other parts of the body?

No. Reducing the misalignment in the upper cervical spine allows the spine to reduce its compensations. If you think about the spine as three segments, it makes more sense. There is the skull, the Atlas (c1), and the rest of the spine from Axis (C2) down to the sacrum. Since the rest of the spine from C2 and below is connected by intervertebral discs and ligaments, it moves similar to a wave when head/neck misalignment is present. Think of it as if the spine has been wound up. This winding up involves vertebral compensations, stress and tension on the nervous system pathways, with often a resulting muscular and/or visceral disfunction.

By reducing head/neck misalignment, the spine is able to unwind, so to speak. As a result, the spinal compensations diminish, the nervous system can communicate optimally with the body, and overall bodily function improves.

In short, reducing interference at the level of Atlas affects the entire body, not simply the upper cervical spine.

Upper Cervical Care And The Patient With Parkinson's Disease

CASE STUDY

Reduction in Symptoms Related to Parkinson's Disease Concomitant with Subluxation Reduction Following Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

Jonathan Chung DC & Justin Brown DC

Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ March 14, 2011 ~ Pages 18-21

Abstract

Objective: To provide a detailed report on one case of a 67 year-old female with Parkinson’s disease under upper cervical chiropractic care.

Clinical Features: A 67 year-old female patient presenting to a private practice with an atlas subluxation complex as well as signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that include weakness, tremors, scoliosis and rigidity.

Intervention and Outcomes: Over a period of 6 months, the patient was seen 19 times and was adjusted 12 times following the NUCCA protocol. Improvements in radiographic measurements, paraspinal thermography, and sEMG were recorded. Patient self-reported improvements in weakness, tremors, rigidity, and overall mobility.

Conclusion: The upper cervical subluxation may be a contributing factor to the symptomatic expression of Parkinson’s disease. Reduction of the subluxation with specific vectored correction may be a plausible, safe, and effective approach for managing PD. More research is warranted investigating the effects of upper cervical care and Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

----------------------------------------------

Editor's Note: Remember that upper cervical care is not a treatment for Parkinson's Disease. An individual with Parkinson's Disease will benefit from a good nerve supply free of interference due to head/neck misalignment (the objective of upper cervical care). Sometimes that improved function better enables the body to heal itself as is evident in this case of a woman with Parkinson's Disease.

Dillon's Story: ADHD and Upper Cervical Care

By Robin Helms
from Upper Cervical Advocates website.

In July of 2005, I took three year old, Dillon, for his annual checkup. As I filled out a developmental questionnaire my fears were confirmed that my little boy was not at an age appropriate level. Dillon failed play based assessments’, and was labeled severely developmentally delayed from 9 months to two years in every category. He also suffered from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. He was placed in speech and occupational therapy in October.

By June of 2006, we had seen negligible improvements and he was practically uncontrollable. He could not communicate, had no physical contact nor look at us when we talked to him. I planned on ADHD medication and an evaluation for autism. I did not want to medicate him because I knew the side effects were horrible, but I was exhausted. I compared it to raising a child who only spoke Chinese. My mother mentioned a seminar she attended on the benefits of Upper Cervical Care. I scheduled an appointment, and I prayed.

At Dillon's evaluation, we were shown that his top vertebrae was misaligned on his brain stem. After the first adjustment, Dillon slept soundly all through the night for the first time in his life. He looked at me when I spoke, and smiled. Every adjustment brought more milestones. After two weeks, he gave me hugs and kisses. Within a month, he laughed and told jokes. He successfully attempted new tasks. He became an energetic, healthy, happy four year old boy. His only obstacle had proven to be one little bone: the Atlas.

At Dillon's four year checkup, just one month after beginning treatments, Dillon was at or above average in every category. His gross motor skills and critical thinking skills were at the top of the charts. His teachers were stunned. Dillon now meets all of his goals in record time, and they make new ones to keep him challenged. Dillon is now in Kindergarten in a typical classroom doing exceptionally well. He loves school and talks about his new adventures. In fact, he talks so much we're beginning to wonder if we've fixed him too much. His discipline both in and out of the classroom has improved so much I've almost forgotten the struggles we had before. He continues to astound us with how fast he is learning. His life will never be the same, thanks to God and to Upper Cervical Care.

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 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.

Upper Cervical from the Specific

This is great information about Upper Cervical Care from the website www.thespecific.com. I have also added a link to their site on the sidebar of this blog.

Specific Chiropractic is not about getting adjusted or even receiving adjustments; it is about living a life free of nerve interference. In fact, our goal in care is actually to deliver as few adjustments as possible.

Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic Care focuses on removing nerve irritation to restore communication between the brain and the body. Restoring function at the level of the brainstem and upper cervical spine (the control center of the body) is essential so that the body may heal itself and have optimal vitality. With the nervous system functioning at 100% the body has the potential to heal itself from even the most complex of ailments.

The words "Upper Cervical" refer to the first two bones in the neck. They are very unique vertebrae, vastly different than the other 23 bones comprising the spinal column. In fact, they have special names. While most people understand the common letter and number system for the vertebrae of the spinal column, the first bone has a particular name, The Atlas. The second bone is referred to as The Axis. These two vertebrae are the only two vertebrae between which there is NO DISC. The absence of the intervertebral disc allows for a greater range of motion. Because of this increased range of motion, these segments are much more likely to misalign, causing nervous system interference at the level of the brain stem. The misaligned segments are identified through the use of Digital Laser-aligned Radiography. Because the misalignment is very slight (measured in millimeters) it is very important that precise x-ray equipment is used.

This nervous system interference can be detected through the use of Computed Infrared Thermography. Thermography has been used for thousands of years to diagnose the sick. In modern times new medical breakthroughs have allowed us to further understand the link between thermal imbalances and nervous system dysfunction. For this reason we utilize thermographic scans both pre- and post-adjustment. It is of absolute importance that the patient understands that results do not come from the adjustments themselves, but rather from the patient achieving a healthy and fully functioning nervous system. For that reason, we utilize thermography to indicate when nervous system interference is present, and therefore, whether or not the patient needs an adjustment. Furthermore, thermography is utilized post-adjustment to be sure that the proper adjustment has been made and that nervous system interference has been reduced or eliminated.

Finally, an Upper Cervical Specific Adjustment is made to the misaligned segments. This is a quick, impulse-type thrust applied to the upper part of the neck. It is safe for patients of all ages. We have experience applying the adjustment to patients ranging in age from 1 day to 95 years old! After the adjustment, the patients will enter a post-adjustment recuperation suite where the patient is placed in a recumbent position for approximately 20 minutes to allow the body to accommodate the adjustment and allow for a longer holding adjustment. Following the post-adjustment recuperation, the patient is scanned with the infrared thermography one last time before going home.

When I Cancelled Plans To Commit Suicide…

...I had no idea we would eventually help thousands of people, with all sorts of health problems, around the world get their normal lives back. After 12-years dealing with the agony of Trigeminal Neuralgia, the unbearable pain robbed me of hope and all desire to live.

The disease, TN, better known as the ‘Suicide Disease’, is an incurable nerve condition of the face. TN is the most painful condition experienced by man, with suicide being the only documented means of lasting relief. Years of medical treatments that included powerful epileptic drugs left me doped like a zombie.

Rhonda, my wife, researched several major surgeries that could sever the nerve leaving me with facial paralysis, or cover the nerve, which might cause blindness, but they cost in excess of $40,000, while offering a limited chance of success. I was running out of time, trying to escape this pain that had taken over my life.

The ‘traditional’ medicine as well as natural treatments, like dental work, acupuncture, chiropractic and herbal (natural) healing offered only temporary reductions or provided no relief. No remedy or drug lessened the horrible pain inflicted by the excruciating spasms I called ‘the beast’. After 12 years of suffering, the only option that made sense to me was to end my life.

One night my wife Rhonda heard a radio broadcast by a motivated woman who shared her remarkable, emotion-packed story of a relatively unknown scientific procedure which reduced her crippling misery with Fibromyalgia, eventually restoring her to a pre-agony state of being.

This turned out to be the very procedure that ultimately ended my pain and eventually brought back my life. My wife scheduled a meeting with an upper cervical doctor close to our home. Within three days of the first realignment of my head the pain was greatly reduced, by the third treatment (9 days later), I was pain free! The cost of finding relief equaled the cost for two months of the three drugs I had taken for over 10 years.

I completed full treatment, and now see my doctor for check-ups only. The only recurrences have been after trauma to my head. The spasms left as soon as I was re-x-rayed and the upper cervical area (C1C2) was corrected again.

-James Tomasi, pastor, author, and Upper Cervical Care advocate.

This head/neck misalignment can cause or contribute to a whole host of health problems because it interferes with body balance and the proper function of the nerve system. This one tiny problem affects your posture and balance (aching joints/pain) and how your nerves work (factor in many diseases). You owe it to yourself to see if this can help you. Find hope at www.thepowerofuppercervical.com and visit www.upcspine.com to find out more and to find a doctor near you.

Upper Cervical Care Reviewed

This is one person's overview of NUCCA care. I thought it was very well done and worth sharing as it covers many of the basics of Upper Cervical Care.

By Lennard Zinn

The top, or Cl vertebra (C is for "cervical," i.e., "neck") is also called the "atlas" vertebra. Cl is concave on top to accept the convex base of the skull, and it is convex on the bottom to fit into the concave top of the next vertebra. Central to the vertebrae runs the spinal cord, carrying body control messages from the brain. Between each pair of vertebrae are 31 pairs of nerves extending out to organs and muscles.

Misaligned (or "subluxated") vertebrae can impinge on the nerves and hamper body function. Chiropractors apply force to parts of the spine with the intent of returning vertebrae to their normal positions. Cracking sounds usually accompany the adjustment. Upper Cervical Technique is distinct in that the adjustment is only performed on the Cl vertebra and the adjustment normally makes no sound. Furthermore, the direction of the application of force to perform the adjustment is not based simply on palpation (the chiropractors "feel") but rather on detailed analysis of X-rays. From the X-rays, a three-dimensional force vector is calculated and then applied to Cl to correct its position.

A misaligned atlas throws off leg length and distorts the entire body. The skull and the other vertebrae rotate and tip to compensate for rotation and tip in C1. The head weighs between 8 and 14 pounds. If it is not sitting straight on top of the spine, the muscles of the body must do something to counteract this bowling ball hanging off to the side. If the muscles on one side of the spine are tighter than those on the other, then the pelvis is pulled up on that side, thus "shortening" that leg.

I went to Farmington, New Mexico, a town of 40,000 near the four comers area, to view this procedure, as there are no practitioners of it within hundreds of miles of my Boulder, Colorado, home. Lloyd Pond, D.C., who practices with his son, Lonnie, is recognized among those who follow the subject as one of the leading practitioners of upper cervical technique.

Diagnostic Methods

The Ponds use a complex diagnostic machine with a digital printout called an "Anatometer" to quantify body distortion. It measures the degree of vertical pelvic tilt, pelvic rotation in a horizontal plane, the lean of the spinal column at the shoulder level, and the amount of weight the patient carries on each foot.

Patients first lie flat on a table to have leg length differences measured.

Patients said that they only feel a very slight pressure and the warmth of the hand on their neck. There was no deflection of the patient's head or neck during the procedure, nor was there an audible sound.

A heat-sensing probe is passed up the spine on the back of the neck. The probe has a temperature sensor on either side, of the spine hooked up to a machine that graphs the temperature readings as a function of position. The graph shows large surface-temperature variations on either side of the spine, indicating interrupted nerve supply.

The adjustment direction is based on X-rays, which one of the Ponds takes to ensure accuracy. Patient position and distance to the lens is precisely set in each of three different X-ray angles.

On a light board, lines are drawn on the X-rays through a series of bone points. The precise relative angles of Cl, the head, and the spine are measured in three planes. Once the exact misalignment of the atlas is determined, a vector direction in three dimensions is determined, precisely opposing the misalignment.

Adjustment procedure

The chiropractor applies a force directly along the determined vector direction to return the atlas to its proper position. The force must be applied with enough pressure to overcome the body's internal resistance to the adjustment without going too far.

The patient lies on his or her side on a low inclined bed with a head support. The adjustment is performed with the side of the heel of one hand on a comer of the Cl vertebra located just behind the patients ear lobe. Lloyd or Lonnie Pond takes a number of measurements with the tape measure to determine where to stand and how to orient his sternum relative to the patient, a different position is used with every patient.

He clasps one hand about the wrist of the other hand, sets the heel of the lower hand on the bone and aligns his arms and the top of his sternum directly down the force vector determined from the X-ray. He does not push by straightening the arms, nor does he push by rocking his back or body forward. With either of those motions, the heel of the hand does not move along a line connecting the top of the sternum and the heel of the hand. Instead, the chiropractor locks his body in place, and the force comes from the shoulders by contracting the head of the triceps muscle. To call it subtle would be an understatement.

I observed the procedure being performed on a number of patients, and interviewed them before and after. They were long-term patients of the Ponds (some on the order of 15-20 years; Lloyd Pond has been doing this work in Farmington for 40 years). Several of the leg-length discrepancies were originally around an inch. Most Patients were coming in for a semi-annual or annual checkup, although one had been involved in an automobile accident dent three days earlier.

Patients said that they only feel a very slight pressure and the warmth of the hand on their neck. There was no deflection of the patient's head or neck during the procedure, nor was there an audible sound.

Afterward, the leg lengths were even, and the thermographs showed consistent temperatures on both sides of the spine.

Patients' comments

The patients reported feeling immediate relief. The reduced strain in the face of the auto accident victim was obvious.

Patients commented that while many joke about "having magic words said over them... half the people in town come to the Ponds." One woman, noted that Pond's rates have gone up from $11 a visit when she first started seeing him 20 years ago to the current $30 per visit but quickly added that she "would pay any amount for it" Patients told me of not only a reduction in the symptoms of body aches, but generally improved overall health.

Lloyd Pond claims only to correct the position of Cl, and he acknowledges that it can improve overall health by improving delivery of nerve impulses and instructions from the brain, helping the body combat disease processes. Due to Cl's close proximity to the brain stem, it simultaneously affects the brain and the entire spinal cord, and thus the entire body.

Lloyd Pond comments that his method is simply the application of physics to the human body. The adjustments can hold for years, unlike most chiropractic adjustments. After the initial series of treatments, visits are separated by many months, and Pond says if alignment is not off, "we don't touch 'em".

When asked why less than 1 percent of chiropractors specialize in this technique, Lonnie Pond says that chiropractors are pulled in many different directions toward various chiropractic specialties, and, he added, "it is easier to crack backs."

John Dunn, D.C., a cyclist, and upper cervical chiropractor from Tallahassee, Florida, says that it takes a certain type of person to practice the technique. It is an exacting method and a real-life application of vector analysis, and therefore, attracts "the pocket-protractor types who drive used cars."

Dunn notes that the work-up is time consuming, the adjustment is sublime, and the follow-up visits are less frequent so there isn't much motivation for a chiropractor to pursue the approach.

"It also takes balls to tickle someone behind the ear and tell them they are going to be just fine," joked Dunn.

Torticollis / Wryneck Significantly Reduced

UPPER CERVICAL CARE FOR SPASMODIC TORTICOLLIS CASES
by Kevin A. James, D.C.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study involved two torticollis cases. On both instances patients presented at our office complaining of severe neck pain. Severely distorted posture of the head and neck area was present in both cases. Both patients were less than 20 years old. One patient was male. The other patient was female. With this severe pain and grossly distorted postural changes, we would use the Grostic/Orthospinology Procedure to attempt to make a spinal correction that would improve the patient's health and well-being.

METHODS: The patient would be examined and a set of cervical x-rays were to be taken using the Grostic Procedure Model. After the x-rays were analyzed, the patient would be adjusted using the hand or instrument as described by the Grostic Procedure/Orthospinology.

However, due to the severe pain involved in these cases, the method of spinal correction was modified based on the doctor's knowledge and understanding of the cervical biomechanics. Along with these modifications, the hand and instrument form of spinal correction was used.

After the spinal correction was made, post Grostic x-rays were taken to note any changes.

RESULTS: In one case, a stroking pull type maneuver (Laney's Finger Tip Pull), as described by Dr. Cecil Laney at a previous Life University Annual Upper Cervical Conference, was used with great success. This maneuver was used because the patient, due to his head weight and pain, could not lay on his side. This successful correction was noted on post cervical x-rays as used in the Grostic Procedure. The second case was adjusted with the stroking pull maneuver and with the hands and instrument as described Orthospinology. This patient was in such pain that the Laney maneuver did not make any notable differences and the customary correction methods were used. Following post cervical x-rays, on this second patient, a notable correction was observed also.

CONCLUSION: In cases, presenting with severe spasmodic torticollis, the symptoms of severe pain are normally expected. The correction of the Vertebral Subluxation Complex in the Upper Cervical area is a must. Due to the severe pain and muscle spasm involved with spasmodic torticollis, the light forced gentle non-manipulative Grostic Procedure provides an excellent method of correcting the VSC causing this spinal imbalance. If this patient is unable to lay down in the proper position due to severe spasm and pain, the doctor's knowledge of the cervical biomechanics as described by Dr. John F. Grostic can be applied using the Laney Finger Tip Pull obtaining favorable results. Once the subluxation has been reduced enough to allow for decreased muscle spasm, the patient can now lay in the desired position for care. The customary hand or instrument adjustment can be used to complete the correction of the VSC.

Upper Cervical Corrections by Hand or Instrument?

I think this is a fair assessment of the question above.

HOW GREAT IS THY ART?
Cecil D. Laney, D.C.

Chiropractic is a philosophy, science and art. The philosophy is our core beliefs which maintain that optimum nerve function is vital to good health and that the nerve function can have interference and this interference can be removed.

The science is the mathematical determination of the structural integrity of the human body. It also addresses the postural standards as to what is normal and optimum to achieve normal nerve function.

The art is the skill with which we render service to the patient in restoring nerve function in the pursuit of better health.

Without data, everything is just an opinion. Therefore, I will offer opinions after over 50 years of observation. I am saying that our greatest failure has been our poor achievement in the art of chiropractic.

Someone estimated that there are over 150 different techniques in the country. I think that there are really two major procedures, the manipulators and the specific adjusters. There is a difference. To manipulate, you move structure randomly. To adjust, you move structure from a given place to a different given place. Unfortunately, the vast majority of chiropractic practices consists of manipulation.

The time is here when the powers that be, the government, insurance companies, etc. are asking: "What do you chiropractors do?" Our answer is: "We correct spinal distortions." But do we? Can you prove it? Do you take pre and post x-rays? If not, what is your method of evaluation?

Dr. B.J. Palmer said the subluxation can only exist in the cervical area. My experience leads me to agree with him. In this area, palpation and postural observation are helpful, but the only reliable performance monitoring method is precision pre and post x-rays. This is the only method I accept.

I have heard claims of everything up to 100% on nearly all cases. I have yet to see proof of this kind of performance. Dr. John D. Grostic told me his father had about 87% overall average correction. This was a surprise to me in view of the fact that adjusting me, he hit 100% almost every time.

It doesn't tell us much if you show a case of 100% correction, but it will give a picture of your performance if you show a dozen consecutive cases with close proximity dates on the film.

In discussions with some of our best hand adjusters, I have come to the conclusion that their overall average is in the nature of 50%. This is good, a far better performance than the manipulators. It is about twice as good as I was ever able to do. I applaud anyone who is training themselves to hand adjust. Maybe someone will come up with a modification of the procedure that will make it more doable.

My observation is that an average 50% correction will eventually build a referral practice even if the doctor has a sour disposition. A 70% average correction will build you an overflow practice.

We are entering a new era in the art of chiropractic. I have designed, built and delivered to Life University a new table mounted cervical adjusting instrument, giving them all rights to it. It has functions that to my knowledge, has never been utilized before. It is being evaluated in the Research Department. We expect to achieve 80 to 90 percent average corrections. This kind of performance will make miracle cases commonplace. The instrument uses the Grostic analysis and adjusting vectors. We urgently need for it to be placed in a few Grostic proficient doctors' offices to accumulate data.

If my opinion is wrong and you can document a correction performance of 70% or above, I want to be a student of yours. If you are averaging much less than 50% with hand adjusting, I would recommend you move to the use of adjusting instruments. It is not fair to your patients to do otherwise.

Blood Sugars Levels Improve?

A brief note about one families experience with upper cervical care and what it did for their daughter who had Type 1 Diabetes.

UNCONTROLLED BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS

My daughter has suffered with Type 1 Diabetes for 4 years now. We have tried several types and dosages of insulin. Eventually we had to have an insulin pump put into my daughter, but we have never been able to regulate her blood sugar levels. I myself went to (Upper Cervical Care) because I suffered with severe neck pain and numbness. While there the doctor explained the nerve system function and the importance of clear communication from the brain to the body and visa versa. I decided to have my daughter checked and she began to receive Upper Cervical adjustments. With every adjustment her blood sugar levels would drop dramatically--to me this was a clear indication that my daughter's body was responding and producing insulin!!

The doctor and staff take a personal interest in every patient and they treat you as if you were family. Their professionalism is unsurpassed.

How Does Upper Cervical Care Help My Symptoms?

An article about Upper Cervical Care and one reason it is so effective for a wide variety of symptoms.

Our Energetic Relationship with Gravity
Success of the NUCCA intervention measured by postural balance

By Dr. Jeff Scholten and Dr. Jason Plotsky

The range of procedures offered by chiropractors allows for significant practice diversity. Tolerance, understanding and the proper utilization of diversity can be viewed as a hallmark of strength in a profession. To properly utilize the benefits available from this diversity, there must be some comprehension of what other practitioners are intending to accomplish with their patients.

Upper-cervical-specific chiropractic has a rich history within our profession. There is a wide spectrum of potential symptomatic and physiological effects experienced by patients following an upper cervical intervention. This article intends to shed some light on why a chiropractor might choose to focus exclusively on adjusting the cervical spine.(1)

Though there are numerous upper cervical chiropractic procedures, they can be classified into two general groups: orthogonally-based procedures, (OBP) and non-orthogonally-based procedures (NOP). Orthogonal refers to an ideal spinal relationship of C1 being perpendicular to the mid-sagittal line of the skull and cervical spine in the frontal plane, as well as perpendicular to the skull in the horizontal or transverse plane. Dr. John F. Grostic, a chiropractor practicing in Michigan, was the first to popularize an orthogonal-based analysis and make a vectored correction with the use of his hand. At least three organizations have been derived from the original Grostic work: NUCCA, Atlas Orthogonal, and Orthospinology. Orthospinology is a technique system that uses both hand-held and table-mounted instruments in addition to the original hand adjustment. Atlas Orthogonal, which was developed by Dr. Roy Sweat of Georgia, uses a percussive hand-held or table-mounted instrument for adjusting. NUCCA, developed by Dr. Ralph Gregory of Michigan, employs an upper cervical analysis and hand adjustment that continues to be developed by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research Association (NUCCRA). As NUCCA practitioners, we will limit this discussion to OBP.

MOBILITY/STABILITY

Many chiropractors attempt to influence a patient’s physiology by creating greater localized joint function and mobility. While localized joint function is important, OBP practitioners concentrate on encouraging a circumstance within the upper cervical spine in which C1 is horizontal and neutrally balanced in space between an equally balanced skull and neck.(2) Mobility and stability have an inverse relationship, and although decreased stability inherently creates an increased susceptibility to trauma, this lack of stability in spinal joints, and the body in general, is a critical component of agility.(3) The occipito-atlanto-axial complex, with its tremendous range of motion, allows for many functional benefits, but stability can be sacrificed in order to attain them.

Clinical observation of patients standing in a neutral position has led NUCCA practitioners to discern that movement away from the vertical axis results in abrupt increases in torque forces. These forces can span the whole musculoskeletal component and also affect visceral elements. Chronic postural distortion results in progressive degenerative effects that may cause functional and eventually organic disease. NUCCA practitioners aim to restore the patient to the vertical axis (when in a standing position) in order to minimize stress and energy requirements, and thereby induce a more optimal metabolic function.(4)

POSTURAL BALANCE

Postural balance is the major physiological outcome measure used to determine the success of the NUCCA intervention.(5) Proper posture – a neutral standing position with the pelvis level and untwisted, the spine and head on the vertical axis, and bilaterally symmetrical weight distribution – is a critical component in our energetic relationship with gravity, as the body’s ongoing effort to maintain verticality in a gravitational environment requires significant energy expenditure.
An efficiently balanced body will permit more energy to be directed for the body’s self-maintenance and healing. In this light, an individual who is balanced relative to gravity will function more efficiently both biomechanically and physiologically. The hypothesis is that, as it self-heals, the body may be able to create a state in which it no longer experiences the presenting complaint.

Many reflexes allow us to maintain our bipedal posture. The reflexive contractions associated with head and neck position are usually positive and allow for balanced movement. However, if these reflexive contractions are maintained due to a misaligned occipito-atlanto-axial complex, they result in postural imbalances with all of the negative ramifications this imbalance produces in the body. For a NUCCA practitioner, the healthy symptomatic resolution is a positive, intentional side effect that occurs when postural balance is returned to the body by the proper removal of interference in the upper cervical spine.

Since Dr. Gregory’s death in 1990, the procedure has continued to be developed by NUCCRA, the research division of NUCCA. The late Dr. Patrick Foran, of Vancouver, British Columbia, wanted the Canadian chiropractic community to know that NUCCA continues to thrive. This is evidenced by: the development of the Anatometer(6) standing postural measurement tool; the recent textbook, Upper Cervical Subluxation Complex, by Dr. Kirk Eriksen; the NUCCRA.org website; as well as a published abstract on a recent hypertension study by Dr. Marshall Dickholtz Sr.(7) These are examples of the continued push by dedicated OBP chiropractors to demonstrate the chiropractic hypotheses on which OBP procedures are based.

Technology and our ability to monitor, measure, and visualize the upper cervical misalignment and its sequelae (encapsulated in NUCCA’s definition of the atlas subluxation complex syndrome[8]) continue to improve. We are moving gradually closer to a more complete understanding of what began with the upper cervical chiropractic pioneers so many decades ago.

A practitioner may choose to concentrate on segmental chiropractic, rehabilitation, sports injuries, pediatrics, radiology, or exclusively on the upper cervical spine. However, when a challenging case presents that is not resolving as expected, the expertise that already exists within the profession should be utilized.

For more information on NUCCA, or to find a practitioner near you, visit www.nucca.org.

Or for more information on Upper Cervical Care in general, visit www.upcspine.com

References:

1. Scholten JN. Review of clinical results in private practice 2004, viewed October 21, 2006, www.drscholten.com/Clinical%20Results.com.

2. Seemann DC. Biomechanics of the upper cervical vertebrae. The Upper Cervical Monograph, 1978; 2(4):1-2.

3. Gracovetsky S. The spinal engine. New York: Springer-Verlag, 1988.

4. Gregory RR. NUCCA protocols and procedures: A textbook for the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association. Monroe, Michigan: National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research Association; 2002: 1-44.

5. Ibid: 1-45.

6. Gregory RR. NUCCRA research: The Anatometer. The Upper Cervical Monograph, 1975; 1(8):8-9.

7. Bakris GL, Dickholtz M, et al. Achievement of blood pressure goal with atlas realignment. J Clin Hypertension, 2006; 8(5):A71.

8. Gregory RR. The A.S.C. and leg imbalance. NUCCA News, 1969; 1(7):1-3.

Little-Known Chiropractic Treatment Saves Man's Life

The picture above is of James Tomasi, Laurie Degroote and Myself.

By BRIANNE SANCHEZ
September 23, 2009

After 12 years of living with debilitating pain in his face, James Tomasi decided to kill himself.

The former pastor from Oklahoma City, Okla., never understood what compelled men to jump from windows and take their own lives until he was diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia (TN), a notoriously painful nerve disorder that causes sudden shock-like facial pains, typically near the nose, lips, eyes or ears.

"It's like being Tasered in the face," Tomasi said of the condition, which, for him, started after a root canal and continued off and on for more than a decade.
Medication didn't work. Neither did having all of his teeth pulled. Prayer wasn't healing him and a $40,000 surgery that couldn't guarantee a cure was out of the question.

Tomasi lost hope. He was frightened, discouraged and debilitated by a pain that forced him to become a recluse, spending two years in a darkened room. The only relief he was certain of would come through death.

"I began to see that I could take control of my life again," Tomasi said in a phone interview from his home. "All I had to do was kill myself and the pain would be gone. When you're hurting so bad, all of a sudden those thoughts make sense."

He decided to end it all on a Tuesday evening in February of 1997, using the pistol he kept near his bedside for protection. But, unaware of her husband's suicide plan, Tomasi's wife, Rhonda, scheduled him for an appointment that Tuesday morning at a local upper cervical chiropractic clinic.

For Tomasi, the upper cervical treatment, a gentle form of chiropractic that focuses on correcting a small misalignment of the upper neck, was a life-saving solution. He walked out of the office feeling relief, and after several visits was pain-free. Since then, the Tomasis have dedicated their lives to raising awareness of upper cervical care through speaking engagements all over the country.

On Friday, at the invitation of Ames-based upper cervical chiropractors Dr. Barbara Read, of Read Health Center and Dr. Zachary Ward of Ward Chiropractic Group, Tomasi will tell his story at the Hickory's Hall Banquet and Events Center in Ames.

Although only a small selection of the population is affected by TN, advocates of upper cervical care believe the technique is beneficial for people with a wide range of chronic symptoms, from asthma to fibromyalgia. "I want to help people who ask, 'Is there a way out of this?" Tomasi said. "This perhaps will give them hope."
Seven members of the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA) practice in Iowa.

"We address the entire spine from the upper cervical area (between the head and neck)," said Deb Sesker, of Balance First Chiropractic Center in West Des Moines. "We don't focus on a complaint as much as structural realignment. We know that structure relates to function and function is controlled by the nervous system."

A NUCCA correction involves an analysis to determine if the patient's head is sitting at the proper angle and if a patient's weight is distributed evenly. Doctor Sesker said that the process begins by checking the patient's "postural distortion," or how far the body is out of alignment. An X-Ray of the head and neck is also taken to determine the angle of correction. Unlike stereotypical chiropractic techniques, there is no thrusting adjustment. The patient lies down and the doctor applies a light, targeted touch behind the ear. A post-procedure X-ray shows the new, realigned position of the body.

"I want to open up the awareness of the power of upper cervical chiropractic," event co-organizerRead said.