Cranio-Cervical Syndrome: The Hidden Impact of Upper Neck Misalignments
On April 6, 2013, a group of medical experts convened in New York City to discuss the emerging and under-recognized Cranio-Cervical Syndrome (CCS). This newly identified syndrome is linked to a range of debilitating symptoms that affect millions of people worldwide, including the 1.2 million whiplash injuries reported annually in the U.S. The symposium, titled “The Cranio-Cervical Syndrome (CCS): The Vulnerability of the Human Neck and Its Impact on Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Flow”, aimed to highlight the growing need for effective diagnosis and treatment options for those suffering from CCS.
While the syndrome is only recently being recognized in the medical community, its symptoms have been well-known among upper cervical chiropractors for over 80 years, where it was called the Atlas Subluxation Complex Syndrome. Thanks to modern advancements in medical technology, the broader healthcare community is now beginning to understand the importance of addressing this issue.
The symposium was driven by new findings from the FONAR UPRIGHT® Multi-Position™ MRI and the UPRIGHT® CSF flow Video Technology, which revealed that CCS is far more widespread than previously thought. This technology has helped identify the connection between upper neck misalignments and disruptions in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow, which can lead to serious health problems.
Symptoms of Cranio-Cervical Syndrome
CCS is associated with a variety of symptoms, primarily involving different types of headaches and neck pain. Some of the most common symptoms include:
-
Pressure Headaches or Migraines
-
Sub-Occipital Neck Pain (pain at the base of the skull)
-
Position-Dependent Neck Pain (e.g., pain when tilting or turning the head)
-
Sharp, Stabbing Pain at the base of the skull
-
Headaches Triggered by Head Position Changes (e.g., from lying down to standing)
-
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and Visual Disturbances (blurred vision, double vision, or tunnel vision)
-
Cognitive Decline (such as dementia or memory loss) accompanying pressure headaches
In more severe cases, patients may also experience:
-
Dizziness and Loss of Balance
-
Vertigo
-
Numbness in the Legs, Arms, or Hands
-
Difficulty Walking or Dropping Objects
-
Loss of Motor Skills
-
Wheelchair Dependency in extreme cases
The Role of Upper Neck Misalignments
Recent advancements in imaging technology have provided insights into the link between upper neck misalignments and disruptions in CSF flow. This obstruction can lead to an increase in intracranial pressure, which, in turn, can cause significant brain changes. These changes have been proposed as potential causes of neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ALS, and even Autism.
Treatment Options for Cranio-Cervical Syndrome
If a misalignment in the upper cervical spine is found, it can be addressed with a specialized chiropractic procedure. This technique is safe, gentle, and extremely effective in restoring proper alignment, which can help alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.
NUCCA Chiropractic Care, which focuses on the upper cervical spine, has shown significant promise in treating patients with CCS. If you’re experiencing symptoms of Cranio-Cervical Syndrome, it’s essential to have a thorough evaluation to determine if a misalignment in your neck is contributing to your condition.
Ready to explore a holistic, non-invasive approach to managing your symptoms? Schedule your NUCCA evaluation today.
Want to hear from people like you? Check out our patient results here.
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/