Our Journey
It started with chronic discomfort at the base of my neck. I would wake up, stretch my neck and spine every morning however the discomfort soon turned to increases pain throughout the day. My mobility decreased as well. It felt like my head was too heavy for my neck to support. An upper cervical spine chiropractic doctor was recommended by my therapist. Never hearing of such a doctor, I was reluctant at first and kept “dealing” with the pain. After a few months I bit the bullet and went to a speaking engagement hosted by the doctor. I was extremely impressed at his knowledge and general demeanor. It was as if he was speaking directly to me and my issues. I decided to give him a shot and get a consultation. I supplied him with 20 pages of background, history of problems, medications, x-rays etc.) I’m sure he was not expecting me bring all of this information but I wanted to see if he was up for the challenge.
After being Diagnosed with lumbar scoliosis (disorder that causes abnormal curve of the spine or backbone, vertebral subluxation complex (VSC-tightness, misalignment of vertebral joint) and craniocervical instability (CCI-structural instability of craniocervical junction that could lead to deformation of the brainstem and upper spinal cord), I expected the doctor to say, “you should consider surgery” or “take these pills for the pain”. However the core of his treatment was about identifying the source Versus masking the body’s responses or the symptoms. In the upper cervical spine, the vertebrae can get locked into misalignment and also interfere with proper nervous system flow. Misalignment that always inherently has instability because a misalignment joint cannot truly be stable, it can get stuck there or be stubborn to move. After additional reading and research, it was eye opening to know that other medical issues most likely manifested from my VSC and CCI condition. The brainstem is key to the body functioning properly…freeing up your body, allowing blood to flow more abundantly throughout your nerves and blood vessels.
After a year of treatment with this specialist, I have more flexibility and range of movement than ever before. Also experience less pain and discomfort in my back, neck and overall body.
Common symptoms of VSC
- RSpinal muscle tightness, weakness
- RBalancing problems or dizziness
- RFrequent headaches
- RJoint pain, soreness, numbness
- RReduced range of motion or spinal mobility
Common symptoms of CCI
- RNeck pain
- RVision problems
- RSleep apnea
- RBalancing problems
- RDizziness or vertigo
- RMuscle weakness
Common symptoms of Scoliosis
- ROne hip higher than the other
- ROne shoulder blade sticks out more than the other
- RBack pain
- RUneven waist
- RUneven shoulders