Case Study: Chronic Neck Pain

By Dr. Jason Alder and his site Upper Cervical Studies

The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate the application of Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan as an effective imaging method for highly specific upper cervical chiropractic corrections.

Patient History

A 38 year old male presented to the clinic with a chief complaint of neck pain that has persisted for the past 7-8 years. The pain was progressing and becoming intrusive in his desired lifestyle. The patient stated that when the pain is at it’s worst, it radiates into bilateral shoulders and arms.

The precipitating cause is unknown. However the patient did have a MVA 4-5 years prior to the onset of symptoms and has actively participated in soccer for the past 30 years and recalls several times that the symptoms have increased following games where the head was used to deflect the ball.

The patient listed several associated complaints including lightheadedness and loss of equilibrium causing the patient to stop his routine and rest until the spell has past.

The patient also describes headache symptoms of both a tension headache and classic migraine precipitated by alcohol use. Pt states 2 episodes/week. Family history includes similar symptoms of migraine headaches. There is also mid back pain localized to the thoracic/lumbar region that is most notable in the evening.

Patient utilizes pain medication to manage the neck and headache symptoms, which helps but the problem persists.

Chiropractic Exam

Flexion of the neck causes increased pain refereed to the shoulders and arms. There was a negative sharp purser orthopedic test. Left C1 – C4 point tenderness and inflammation nodules were found at the posterior lateral vertebral joints.

The patient had muscle tightness on the left side of the neck as well as multiple muscle spams of the right upper Trapezius and Levator scapulae.

Posture analysis concluded an elevated left head by 2 cm, even shoulders and a high right hip by 1 cm.

Leg length inequality check revealed a 2 cm right short leg with a positive right c2 challenge.

Cervical temperature pattern was established using a Titron thermographic instrument.

Imaging Analysis

Imaging was ordered utilizing a seated 3D CBCT unit. On Demand 3D software was used for the analysis of the images following a variation of the Blair x-ray analysis.

The Foramen Magnum/Spinal Canal study found a large right rotation of axis. This was confirmed on the 3D view. The simulated protracto views found a double posterior misalignment of atlas. An exceptionally “tilted” atlas was found on the posterior 3D view that is also observed on the frontal generated x-ray view.

Large right rotation of axis

Flat Plain line


The atlas appears to be tilted up on the right

Care

Upper cervical chiropractic care following the Blair corrective protocol was elected to correct this upper cervical misalignment. Following the first correction and a 20 min rest period the thermographic scan demonstrated a change. The leg length inequality was found to be normal. The patient commented that he felt a bilateral burning sensation in the lower leg region, following the Achilles tendon.

A follow up visit two days later found the burning sensation in the lower legs continued. Cervical thermographic scan and leg length inequality tests were performed and found to negative. This means that the scan was remarkable different from the pattern that was established prior to care and the legs that were found to be uneven before care were found equal after the initial adjustment and continue to be equal 2 days later. The patient also noted a decrease in neck symptoms.

In all, 4 upper cervical corrections were given in a 3 month period and the patient continued to improve. The patient experiences fewer and less severe episodes of lightheadedness and reports that the tension headaches have become an infrequent occurrence.

(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.)

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.)

Neck Pain, Cervical Spine Disease And Upper Cervical Care: A Patient's Perspective

For more than 3 1/2 years I suffered from pain and popping in my neck. The pain level was a constant level of 6-8. I believe I sustained an injury while handling/planting a large tree by myself. I was in a car accident more than 20 years ago that caused injury to the muscles in my neck and made the upper cervical area curve outward, but I recovered from it and had no other symptoms. I believe handling the tree aggravated the old injury and/or misaligned the atlas bone.

I was diagnosed, by chance, with "cervical spine disease" when I received a CT scan to look for something else. I asked for a referral from my doctor and was told that there is nothing that can be done. Over the 3 1/2 years, during routine exams, I mentioned the condition to another doctor and physician's assistant and they both didn't really acknowledge my concern. They didn't try to help me at all. I was frustrated. I did research online; which explained the condition, but really didn't offer any treatment. So, I lived with the discomfort and took ibuprofen when I was really uncomfortable. I don't like to take meds of any kind. I thought an upper cervical chiropractor would probably be able to help me, but I have never been to one.

One of my co-workers knew of my condition and told me her Upper Cervical Health Care Specialist, Dr. Blom, was having a patient appreciation day and I should call for a consultation. I called, made an appointment got interviewed and examined. At the next appointment the results and treatment plan were reviewed and I was adjusted for the first time in my life. The relief from the pain was instant. Since that first adjustment my discomfort level has never been over a 2. Lately it has been below a 1. Dr. Blom is great about explaining "in laymen’s terms" how the misalignment affects your body. I like understanding what is happening and why. Now I have no discomfort and worry 99% less about my condition, because I know it will correct itself with continued care from Dr. Blom. I feel so much better and have more energy.

-Denise Jaco

(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.)

What Has Responded To Upper Cervical Care?

For more specific stories from patients around the world click here.

(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, Candy and Neck Spasms

What happened to her debilitating neck spasms?

by Dr. Ward

Upper cervical care (NUCCA technique) patients see “same-day” changes in posture. Symptoms may take longer to respond. Most will experience changes in symptoms in the first 6 days or so. And many of those will be dramatic improvements. Read or listen to one woman’s story with debilitating neck pain and spasms and how (NUCCA) upper cervical care helped her body to heal.

Thank you to Candy for allowing me to share her story so that others might know that a drug-free, surgery-free way is available.

BEFORE

I had severe muscle spasms in my neck. To the point to where it was just debilitating. I could do nothing but lay flat and hope there was no jar or movement. And when the actual spasm would go away: loss of range of motion, tenderness, continued pain that would be intermittent, stiffness in my shoulders, and between my should blades, and that stiffness would radiate on down to my lower back and my legs.

NOW

…I feel like a new woman. I’ve got really good range of motion in my neck. And all the shoulder pain is gone. The pain between my shoulder blades is gone. My lower back feels a lot less rigid, and my legs seem to be much more limber than they were before.

I sleep better because I don’t have the neck pain associated with laying my head on the pillow. And I just feel like I can function so much better.

…You can come in feeling rotten and leave feeling like you’ve got the world licked...

The surprising thing to me is how gentle the care is, and how much benefit you have. I come in with one leg significantly shorter than the other, and then after a few minutes, I’m all even with world again. And everything is level and my muscles are functioning correctly. The pain is gone. I just cannot believe that for the short amount of time that I need to spend here, and for as gentle the care is, that I get that much benefit.

(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.)

Life Returns After Upper Cervical Care

Health in the game of life

By Hans Stolfus

No one has paid me to dispense the endorsement you’re about to read. I simply feel compelled to share my story as others suffering from a similar condition may benefit greatly from this information.

Anyone who followed my short-lived career on the sand is aware things began to dramatically unravel in 2007 after an acute neck injury limited my mobility to a point where nonstop health maintenance and physical therapy care were necessary just to continue competing. And even then my game was submarginal at best, only I didn’t have another source of income, so the motto became “fight through it” or pack my bags and move to the third pillar under the ‘Pier.’

Pain and tightness turned to pressure. Pressure turned to headaches and eventual migraines. Migraines turned to a life without light and meals spent on the floor. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.

I saw chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists, acupuncturists, Rolfers, Heller Care Professionals, trainers, medical doctors, migraine, pain and cervical spine specialists, and rheumatologists. I visited the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., the Headache Institute in Newport Beach, Calif., and Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, Calif.

Diagnosis by Karen Newcomer at Mayo: nothing. Mild degeneration between C4-C5-C6 (vertebrae of the cervical spine) and some moderately bad posture likely attributed to the pectus excavatum headlining my sternal cavity.

Diagnosis & Treatment by Philip O’Carroll at the Headache Institute: botox (yes, botox) into the neck muscles to release tension, nightly nerve pain meds, Treximet for Migraines, and a range of motion routine I had received from at least 36 previous practitioners.

Diagnosis & Treatment by Steven Graff-Radford at Cedars Sinai: two successive nerve injections and a Radiofrequency Neurotomy on the nerves surrounding C2 and C3. Yes, that’s right; I had them burn off nerve endings with the purpose of interfering daily pain signals. I resorted to the unthinkable. It was that or take a detour off PCH into the underlying brush like Junior Seau. And although it removed some of the immediate pain and pressure, it did nothing to fix the root of the problem.

Fast forward three months… walk by a “Busy Body” in Newport Beach, decide to stop in and inquire about a rowing machine for my apartment complex gym — as normal exercise remained completely out of the question, even after the neurotomy — explain my situation to the sales guy, listen to his “you should see this guy” spiel, roll my eyes invisibly, take the chiropractor’s card — which he just so happened to have on him — as to not seem rude, throw the card in the center council of my car, and then proceed to wait three weeks to dial the number and hear how this guy could somehow magically be ‘different‘ than all the rest.

To make an incredibly long story short, it turned out the Neurotomy wasn’t my last option after all. Although I had seen somewhere in the range of 300 previous chiropractors over the years, this guy’s practice was unlike anything I had previously heard of or experienced, focusing on the positioning of C1 (Atlas) and C2 (Axis) and their relationship to the brain stem, spinal cord, and entire central nervous system.

He used a series of numerous unorthodox x-rays, a prism-based stereoscopic viewing method to make each film ‘3D,’ a set of protractor-based measurements drawn on each ‘subluxated’ vertebrae, a heat sensitive instrument to test neurological transmission, a specific table to determine body symmetry, and a scientific technique to bring it all together and locate the problem so it could be fixed.

Bottom line: back in ’07 my atlas (C1) had been spun like a top and was pinching off a host of pain related nerves just beneath my skull ever since. One adjustment, which involved zero cracking or spinning of the head like typical ‘chiropractic,’ and not only did the pain and pressure disappear, but my vision improved, my short term memory began to return, and life started to seem like something worth living again. The procedure was most certainly heavy and intense, and prevented me from moving my head in any direction for 24 hours as a precautionary measure, but was, without a doubt, worth its weight in gold. My life changed the instant those nerves finally freed up, and I can’t imagine going back and feeling the way I did for almost four years ever again. And ready for this, it’s held. My body just needed to go back to the way it was meant to be and the rest has taken care of itself.

That’s it. Don’t want to preach, just want to inform. I tried it all and my solution came at a small office in Yorba Linda, Calif. at the hands of a gentleman by the name of Dr. David Topping. There’s only a handful of upper cervical “Blair” chiropractors in California and not many more scattered throughout the U.S. Why? I don’t want to get too ‘conspiracy theorist,’ but frankly there’s no profit margin in healing someone with only one visit. And that’s what practitioners like Topping are doing. They’re freeing up the nerve pathways from the brain to the body and finally allowing the body to heal itself. Not saying it’s for everybody, or that all patients will require only one adjustment as age and degeneration play an important role, but if you’ve got neck or back pain and have run the gamut like I had, might be time to try one more option. It could finally change everything.

And in case you’re wondering, I will play beach volleyball again, maybe not at the professional level, but definitely for fun down in Corona Del Mar on a casual Saturday afternoon.

(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.)

Four Upper Cervical Testimonials

from uppercervicalflorida.com

High Blood Pressure

I was very stressed and had neck pain, as well as high blood pressure (180 / 120) and a high pulse rate of 105 beats / min. After the first adjustment my blood pressure dropped to 130/80, and my pulse rate dropped to 75. I do not feel stressed anymore- I feel great! My husband said that I looked 10 years younger when I got home after the 1st adjustment. Amazing stuff! Thank you guys!!!

-Meli S.


Numbness, Trouble Walking

I could not get into bed or dress myself after falling in the snow during Christmas. After an adjustment in early January I could feel my left side pain receding and the numbness in my left arm disappearing. I could dress myself and bend over again. I have been walking a mile on the ocean trail every day since the adjustment.

-Christine S.


Fibromyalgia / Chronic Fatigue

I came to the Upper Cervical Health Centers of America in Juno Beach, Florida after more than six months of extreme fatigue, severe body pain and weakness, and decreased mental focus and clarity. As a normally healthy and physically active person, as well as a student and a dancer, these symptoms greatly interfered with my lifestyle and affected me physically, mentally and emotionally. I no longer had any energy to spend time with friends and family, concentrate on my studies or enjoy my regular daily activities. I had seen a number of medical doctors, all of whom gave me different diagnoses and different prescriptions; none of which provided any relief. In fact, my symptoms grew worse. Frustrated and confused, I came to Dr. Alli Manis and Dr. Kevin Davine. When meeting with them, they took the time to educate me about Upper Cervical Care and its benefits. In their care, I have found relief of my symptoms as well as improved overall health. I feel better now than I did before my symptoms appeared! I am grateful for their work, as well as their passion in helping everyone achieve true health and wellness.

-Amanda D.


Severe Back and Neck Pain

Several years ago my pain in my neck and back became so severe that I could not go to work or play golf. As with most people, I visited local doctors and hospitals in hopes of getting better. No improvement. Next step was visiting The Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic. Still no Improvement. I then heard of Upper Cervical Health Care. After 3 weeks of adjustments, I returned to a normal life. FULLY RECOVERED! To me, a miracle. I now use Drs. Manis and Davine and fully endorse their work.

-John Traub, PGA Golf Professional

(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 of the above conditions, diseases or symptoms.)

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."

Are You A Candidate For Upper Cervical Care?

By Dr. Zachary Ward

Are you a candidate for an upper cervical (NUCCA) spinal correction?

If you want to remove barriers to self-healing, and you can answer yes to one or more of the following questions, then you may be a candidate for our care. Please request a consultation with the doctor.

■Have you ever been told by a chiropractor, podiatrist, tailor, or seamstress that you have one leg that is shorter than the other?

■Have you ever been prescribed a heel lift for a ‘short leg’?

■When you look in the mirror do you see your head tilting toward your right or left shoulder?

■When you look in the mirror do you consistently see one shoulder that is higher?

■Do you limit carrying handbags or purses to one shoulder because the strap falls off on one side?

■For women, do you always find one bra strap falling off of one shoulder?

■When you wear a belt, do you notice that it sits higher on one hip than the other?

■When you walk do you find that your waistband tends to twist towards one side of your body, pulling the inseam out on one side?

■Do you suffer from a head, neck, back or body pain that cannot be explained by other doctors? Or pain that is not responding to other kinds of care, including traditional chiropractic?

■If you turn your head all the way to the left or right, is it easier to make this motion on one side than the other?

■Do you have pain or tenderness or a sensation of tightness at the base of the skull?

■Have you ever had a chiropractor or medical doctor diagnose you with a ‘loss of curve’ in your neck from an x-ray or MRI?

■Do have an inability to concentrate (foggy headedness) that you cannot explain?

■Do you have a neurological problem (balance, seizures, vision disturbances, cranial nerve disorders) that you want to manage with other ways than medicine?

■Have you ever sustained a whiplash injury?

■Did you have a difficult birth using forceps or vacuum extraction?

■Do you have occasional headaches or migraine headaches?

(Editor's note: These are merely indicators of body imbalance. Please 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 anything listed above or any other condition, disease or symptom.)

Upper Cervical Care Stories Of Healing: Part 6

Editor's Note: Today is our last story in this series and it comes from a patient of Dr. Zachary Ward. Again, please remember that upper cervical care is not a treatment for 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.

Candy's story

Before I had severe muscle spasms in my neck. To the point to where it was just debilitating. I could do nothing but lay flat and hope there was no jar or movement. And when the actual spasm would go away: loss of range of motion, tenderness, continued pain that would be intermittent, stiffness in my shoulders, and between my should blades, and that stiffness would radiate on down to my lower back and my legs.

Now I feel like a new woman. I’ve got really good range of motion in my neck. And all the shoulder pain is gone. The pain between my shoulder blades is gone. My lower back feels a lot less rigid, and my legs seem to be much more limber than they were before.

I sleep better because I don’t have the neck pain associated with laying my head on the pillow. And I just feel like I can function so much better.

You can come in feeling rotten and leave feeling like you’ve got the world licked. The surprising thing to me is how gentle the treatment is, and how much benefit you have. I come in with one leg significantly shorter than the other, and then after a few minutes, I’m all even with world again. And everything is level and my muscles are functioning correctly. The pain is gone. I just cannot believe that for the short amount of time that I need to spend here, and for as gentle the treatment is, that I get that much benefit.

Upper Cervical Care Stories Of Healing: Part 5

Editor's Note: Today our story comes from a patient of Upper Cervical Health Centers in their Tulsa, OK office. 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.

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

Oh, where to begin……. Thirteen years ago I was hit head-on by a driver who chose to cross over into my lane on a two-lane highway . The impact was at 70 mph. It was a miracle I survived. The injuries I sustained were from my seat belt and from the sudden jolt of the impact. The majority of my muscles in my back, neck, and chest were torn and several of my ribs were fractured. I underwent physical therapy for a year and a half. Then I was released because there was nothing else that could be “medically” done for me. I was told by two doctors, upon my release from their care, that they were sorry because I was so young and they went on to give me a list of “things” I could not and would not, ever, be able to do for the remainder of my life and that within 10 years I would have to have back surgery that would fuse several of my bones together. I asked, “What about having children? ” They proceeded to tell me not to even try it and that I should just be thankful I survived. At 23 years of age, I was unwilling to except such a bleak future.

Several days after the “accident”, my dad took me to a chiropractor. With great pain, I was put back into place. I continued chiropractic care for 12 years and I know it helped me continue to keep going on with my life.

About a year after my physical therapy ended, I began to have what two years later would be diagnosed as seizures and “possible” epilepsy. I underwent numerous tests and eventually gave in to taking prescription medication. For the next 9 1/2 years, without warning I would experience seizures. The seizures would include the inability to speak clearly (many times my sentences would come out in reverse word order or with every other word missing) or not at all, the temporary loss of consciousness, loss of muscle control, and falling. After the seizures occurred, I would be totally exhausted (mentally and physically).

At the age of 34, my regular visits to my doctors and chiropractor were literally doing no good. In addition to the seizures, I began have trouble bending down and getting up due to dizziness and my back ”locking-up”. It was then that I became desperate for someone or something that could help me.

That help came in form of a childhood friend who had recently discovered upper cervical care. Shortly after talking with my friend, I called and set up an appointment. Being under the care of a wonderful Upper Cervical Doctor has literally changed my life. I am now 35 years old, “drug free”, have not had a seizure in months, am able to bend down and get back up without experiencing dizziness or my back ”locking-up”. The benefits of Upper Cervical Care are tremendous. By keeping my body in proper alignment, it is literally healing itself. AMAZING!

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.

Upper Cervical Care, Cocoons And Stiff Necks

A recent patient was experiencing a significant amount of neck stiffness. They were unable to turn their head very far in either direction. We checked them and it was determined that they did not need an upper cervical correction at that time. We checked this patient multiple times over the next week and a half each time with no indication of them being in need of a correction. Finally just before 2 weeks the tests indicated that indeed a correction was needed. The correction was administered and the patient experienced immediate improvement. You might ask why not make the correction in the first place so that they did not need to go through all that discomfort for over a week? Read the story below and it may help to explain.

"A young man was attending a university, studying to become a naturalist. One lovely spring day during his first year, when he was really feeling burned out by studying, he decided to take a break and go for a stroll in the nearby woods. As he walked through the woods with warm sunlight streaming through the fresh green leaves, he saw a twig with a cocoon attached to it that was literally vibrating with life. He observed the cocoon for a few minutes, pondering the life and struggle taking place inside of it. Then, partly out of curiosity, partly out of misguided sympathy, the young man pulled a pocketknife out of his pocket. Then, he carefully so as not to hurt the creature inside slit the cocoon from one end to the other and stepped back to see what would happen. In a few moments there emerged the crumpled wings of a beautiful monarch butterfly. The butterfly tried to fly, but it fluttered and fell to the ground. The butterfly tried to fly once more and once more it fell to the ground. Then it became very still, and the young man saw that much to his horror the beautiful butterfly was dead. Later, when it was too late, he learned that it is the struggle inside the cocoon that builds strength in the wings and body of the creature inside so that at the appropriate time it can emerge on its own and survive as an adult in the world."

So while I am not suggesting that making an upper cervical correction sooner would have killed this patient what I am saying is that sometimes something that seems like a struggle on the surface may be something that needs to happen and in fact some good may come from the struggle. This patient was struggling without a doubt but anytime you are working with the human body, which is intelligent and self healing, we have to ask ourselves why something is happening. Something that seems like a problem could in fact be there temporarily because it needs to be in order to fix something. We know a great deal about the human body but very little when compared to what could be known. Because of that it is very difficult to determine if what is happening is needed or not. With this patient the neck could have been locked up because the body was making some very much needed changes and improvements and needed the joints to limit their motion for a period of time to accomplish it. Since we don't know why the body did it in the first place it is best to have specific tests to indicate when there is true nerve interference and make an upper cervical correction only when indicated. This way the patient gets the upper cervical care they need when they need it and the body is given the respect it deserves for healing and repairing itself by whatever means it deems appropriate.

Why I Am An Upper Cervical Care Advocate

By John A. Sanders

Ask anybody who knows me, and they’ll tell you I’m always anxious to share the good things I’ve discovered, whether it’s a great new movie, or restaurant, or a product. When my wife and I came up with a terrific way to cook ribs, and people asked for the recipe, we didn’t tell them it was a secret. We gladly shared it with them. And now, people are enjoying Sanders’ Sassy Ribs all over the country.

So, when our amazing Upper Cervical Doctor successfully treated my wife and me for our long-standing pain conditions, I naturally told my family and friends who might be helped. And, they are being helped. But, that just didn’t seem to be enough. About 8 years ago, after leading an active, busy and successful life, I was thrown into prison… a prison of pain. I’ll spare you the details, but suffice it to say that my strange headache condition, and the back and neck pain I experienced, took away my freedom to live as I had before. And, eventually, I was told that this was a life sentence, and that the conditions of my “imprisonment” would worsen over time.

Despite the care and concern of the people who love me, most of my time has been spent in solitary confinement… just me, and my pain, in a constant, never-ending, battle for sanity. Like Steve McQueen and his baseball in “The Great Escape”, I sought to distract myself from my incarceration. In the past, I’d use my guitar and my music to take me away from troubles. But, my pain would not allow me to play. It was like my guitar was sitting just outside my prison cell, and I couldn’t do anything but lament what I once had… what I once was.

I used to travel extensively, all over the world. Obviously, being in jail severely curtails your frequent flier miles. Being a prisoner of pain is no different. I won’t go into the mental and physical torture I went through, because a lot of it was inflicted on me by a well meaning, but increasingly impersonal healthcare and insurance system that doesn’t seem to understand its priorities, and what’s best for us.

The worst part was when my wife was thrown into the cell next to me. Her lower back problems got so bad, she couldn’t stand for more than 5 minutes at a time. And, a drastic back surgery was the torture they had in store for her.

So, when my Upper Cervical doctor released my wife and me from our pain, I couldn’t just run to freedom without taking my fellow “inmates” with me. Of course, not everyone will be able to go. Fear, and the comfort of “an evil that they know” will make it difficult for some to follow when the door swings open. But, you do your best, you keep going, knowing there are many who are ready for a solution.

One thing I’ve discovered: this “prison” is a lot bigger than I thought, and it’s filled with millions of people whose lives have been cut short. So, as I show people how they can escape from their suffering, I’ll be asking them to help spread the word, so everyone can be freed. For me, it came down to this: Once I knew the way out, how could I possibly leave anyone behind? And, how could I let anyone get trapped in that prison again?

That’s why I’m an Upper Cervical Advocate.
What about you?

Can Upper Cervical Care Stop The Endless River?

Adapted from: The Endless River
Author Unknown

From its inception, our "health" care system has been an allopathic philosophy. Allopathy can be described as the practice of treating diseases and/or conditions. The bottom line is, you don't seek care if nothing is wrong. And if you do go when nothing is wrong, the purpose is to find something that is wrong so it may be treated. This is the limitation of allopathy--it does not serve people until they are in crisis.

Consider this analogy. If you had spent your whole life in a rescue squad pulling thousands of drowning people out of a river, would you not eventually wonder why they were in the river to begin with? Our system has spent centuries attempting to save the lives of millions who are sick and dying, but has never gone to the head of the river to discover how the people were falling in. This is why treating conditions, while necessary at times, is not the only answer. Treating anything is reactive. Pathologists have proven that symptoms are the last stage of the disease process. By the time you are getting stomach pains, neck pain, dizziness or any symptom, your body has existed at a sub-par level for some time already.

Upper Cervical Care exists as one of the only non-allopathic licensed health care professions in the world today. We don't go to the Upper Cervical Doctor when we have a bad back, sore throat or broken toe nail. We go to the Upper Cervical Doctor for one reason, to keep the nervous system un-interfered with because a properly functioning body keeps us out of the river and delivers an exceptional experience of life and health. If you really feel that your body is important to your existence, you will find that Upper Cervical Care is a refreshing and necessary addition to your health regimen. Upper Cervical Care is a life-supporting measure that is proactive and can be utilized for as long as life itself exists.

So what do you think? Can Upper Cervical Care, by helping the body function at its best, stop, or at least decrease, the number of individuals falling into the endless river of a health crisis? I think it is safe to say that it would be a drastic improvement to a system that is, itself, in a health crisis.

Anecdotal Evidence

Testimonials

Since I have been under upper cervical care I have noticed my posture is getting better, my allergies are less severe and I get fewer migraines. – Sarah

Since receiving care I have noticed many changes in my body and mind. My back pain is gone, I handle stress much better. I rarely get any headaches. My biggest change has been in my concentration. I drag race and I believe upper cervical care is giving me an edge on my competition. I am more focused than ever before. I am having one of my most successful years ever. Thank you so much. – Jarod

Before starting upper cervical care I was having digestion problems, after my first alignment I was regulated! I also was having issues with my cervix for a year my tests would show a low grade 4th stage cancer on and surrounding my cervix. After receiving upper cervical care my test came back negative. Upper cervical care makes me feel energetic and balanced. – Kylie

Feel much better overall – headaches gone, able to go (comfortably) without left heel lift, pain in knees (had two surgeries) gone for the most part. Occasionally left and right hands still fall asleep, starting at the elbow and wrist. – David

I have always had neck problems, waking up and having to crack my neck. I have noticed a huge difference after be under upper cervical care. I have less neck pain and it cracks less. I do feel more relaxed after every appointment. Some has to do with the 15 minutes of dark/quiet time that I necessarily wouldn’t get otherwise. – Heidi

I was pregnant with my 2nd child and started having problems walking. I couldn’t get my right leg to rotate properly and this caused me to fall. I got under upper cervical care after getting no relief from 2 other Chiropractors, one of whom I had gone to for 3+ years! The doctor explained upper cervical care and then “adjusted” me. Okay it wasn’t like any other “adjustment” I had previously. It’s more like it gave my body “cues” for alignment. I was never uncomfortable and there was a noticeable improvement in my mobility. I continued care and continue to see improvement. After my son was born, I brought him and my daughter in and we now visit periodically for check-ups. The visits are fun! Can you say that about your doctor? I trust the doctor with not only my health and life but with the health and life of my 2 beautiful children. – Barbara

Since I have been under upper cervical care I have had less back, neck and shoulder pain. I was taking Zomig on a regular basis for migraines and now very seldom use it. I also broke my ankle in 3 places in December 2004 and had knee surgery in April 2005. Walking normal again has been difficult, but the care has helped me with that also. Keeping my body in alignment is so important for all my general health. Thank you for caring about me and how I feel and for my future health. – Kathy

I have been experiencing increasing back pain for several years. I am not a person who uses medication, but the past three years, I have had to use extra strength Tylenol to get through the days (3x/week). I have received massage therapy and tried to increase my exercise (which helped a little). Recently, however, exercise was not relieving my back pain. My posture was getting worse – I could tell I was leaning forward just a little. Since I came under upper cervical care my back pain is significantly better. I feel as if I have more energy; I can exercise freely again and I am back to living life without the use of Tylenol. One side benefit is that even though I only use stairs to get to my destinations, recently my knees were beginning to hurt – Now I walk up and down stairs without pain. I have only been under care for 6 weeks! – Sharon

Before I was under upper cervical care I had suffered from migraines and back pain. Since starting care I have not had any migraines or back pain. Occasionally I will get a headache but that is much easier for me to treat than a migraine. I can only take Tylenol, due to being on Coumadin, and Tylenol doesn’t do much for me. I am a single parent and I need to feel my best at all times. Upper cervical care has given me that reassurance, in that the last few months I have felt great. I would recommend this type of care to anybody that wanted to lessen their amount of pain that they were experiencing. This type of care may not eliminate the pain 100%, but it will more than likely decrease the amount of pain you are suffering. The doctor is not only a wonderful doctor, but a fun person to talk with and joke around with! There is always new information to read up on at every visit. I am very pleased with the results that I have received under upper cervical care! – Kelly