Understanding the Impact of Craniocervical Junction Misalignment on Spinal Health
The upper cervical spine, consisting of the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), plays a pivotal role in supporting the head and enabling a wide range of head movements. The underlying nerves and blood vessels provide nutrition to the spine, including ligaments, muscles, and intervertebral discs. A misalignment at the craniocervical junction (CCJ) can negatively […]
Traction vs Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
Do you have a bulging or herniated disc? Do you have sciatica? Do you have numbness, burning, or tingling going down your arm and into your hands? Have you been told you have a slipped disc or pinched nerve? If you or someone you know answered yes to any of these questions, this article is […]
Nitric Oxide: The Missing Link?
Introduction I am always hesitant to recommend supplementation to my patients for several reasons. My primary reason is that I myself don’t prefer taking supplements EVERY SINGLE DAY. Reason #1: It gets old taking an assortment of supplements day in and day out. Reason #2: It’s expensive! I spent two years of bodybuilding in college. […]
Insurance Coverage & Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
As a doctor in private practice, I understand that managing spine pain can be physically and financially challenging. One key consideration is that insurance often does not cover 100% of medical costs, particularly for out-of-network care. However, investing in noninvasive, nonsurgical treatments can offer significant long-term benefits despite the initial out-of-pocket expenses. Non-invasive treatment options […]
Mayo Clinic & Spinal Decompression Success
The following is a hallmark spinal decompression study conducted by John Leslie, MD, and published by the Mayo Clinic. This is a prospective, multicenter, phase II, non-randomized clinical study to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of non-surgical spinal decompression for active treatment of chronic lower back pain utilizing a standardized clinical research multimodal protocol. This […]
Understanding the Craniocervical Junction: Anatomy, Safety, and Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
As a PhD anatomist, I approach chiropractic care with a healthy skepticism, particularly concerning its safety around the craniocervical junction. The risk of stroke associated with cervical manipulations has been a topic of significant debate. However, it’s crucial to understand the anatomy of the blood vessels in this region and to recognize the safety protocols […]
Understanding Hemodynamic Changes and Headaches: The Role of Upper Cervical Misalignment
Introduction The Craniocervical Junction: A Critical Crossroads The craniocervical junction (CCJ) comprises the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, which support the skull and facilitate a wide range of head movements. This region also houses vital neurological structures, including the brainstem, and serves as a conduit for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood flow between the […]
Upper Cervical Spinal Care: A Gentle Approach
Neurological Effects of Upper Cervical Correction Anatomy and Physiology of the Craniocervical Junction The craniocervical junction, comprising the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, is a critical region for neurological function. This area supports the skull, facilitates head movement, and houses the brainstem, the conduit for neural pathways between the brain and the rest of […]
Sleep Hygiene: Important Component of Healing & Recovery
In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of sleep often gets overlooked. As a society, we are staying up later and getting up earlier than ever. The grind never seems to stop. Many people understand that sleep is necessary, yet we consistently cut ourselves short. Proper sleep is a cornerstone of good health and crucial to […]
Spine Pain: MD vs DC
Spine pain in the United States has gotten out of control. Frankly, this fire has been roaring for decades. Though significant improvements in healthcare, scientific breakthroughs, and more modalities are at our disposal now than ever, this problem is not going away anytime soon. Often, I am asked what the most common causes of spine […]