The Hidden Connection Between Concussions, Head Injuries, and Whole-Body Imbalance
For years, NUCCA doctors have consistently asked patients about past head or neck trauma—such as car accidents, sports injuries, falls, concussions, or even childhood incidents that required stitches or resulted in unconsciousness.
Why does this matter?
When accidents damage the connective tissues that stabilize the spine, especially in the neck, the body becomes vulnerable to long-term structural imbalance. These injuries often go unnoticed at the time—but their effects can compound over months or years.
Why the Upper Neck Matters Most
The most delicate and injury-prone area of the spine is the upper cervical region, specifically the atlas, the top vertebra located just beneath the skull. When the soft tissues around the atlas are stretched or torn, the head can subtly shift off-center.
This shift disrupts the body’s balance system, which relies on the eyes, ears, and brainstem to remain aligned with the horizon. In response, the brain initiates the righting reflex, forcing the rest of the body to compensate. This leads to:
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Twisting of the spine
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Uneven shoulders and hips
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Leg length differences
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Chronic muscle tension
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Unequal weight distribution
Over time, this imbalance can affect everything from posture to nerve function, blood flow, and overall health. And yet, the original cause is often a misalignment of the atlas due to an old injury.
Case Study: Concussion and Lasting Relief Through NUCCA
A research article published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research (January 6, 2011) describes the case of a 23-year-old woman who suffered a concussion after a fall.
She had experienced chronic headaches prior to the injury, but the fall significantly worsened them and introduced new symptoms of positional vertigo. Upon examination, her NUCCA chiropractor identified a misalignment at the upper cervical spine and noticeable postural imbalances, including a leg length discrepancy.
After her first upper cervical adjustment:
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Her vertigo and headaches resolved immediately
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Postural balance improved
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Neck muscle tension decreased
She continued care twice per month for monitoring and reported ongoing relief from symptoms.
Is There a Link Between an Old Injury and Ongoing Health Problems?
If you—or someone you know—has experienced a concussion or neck trauma, it’s possible the root of chronic symptoms like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or body aches lies in the upper neck.
Only an upper cervical specialist can properly evaluate whether your head or neck alignment may be affecting your overall health.
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Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/
References:
Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ January 6, 2011
Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care of a Patient with Post Concussion Syndrome, Positional Vertigo and Headaches
Alisha Mayheu DC & Matthew Sweat DC