Sciatica is a disorder which causes a set of symptoms including pain in the derrière or leg that becomes worse when sitting, standing or squatting, also it can cause a burning or tingling “pins and needles” sensation in the leg, weakness, numbness, difficulty of motion in the foot or leg. The sciatic nerve runs from the spine through the buttocks, and down the leg on both sides of the body. It is not abnormal for symptoms to manifest only on one side of the body.

Causes of Sciatica

Back pain and sciatica can be caused by disc problems in the back. Muscle trauma or injury is another cause for sciatica. Extra weight causes pressure on the lower back, so pregnancy and obesity are also common sciatica pain causes. In addition there are some spinal diseases such as swelling, arthritis and cancer that can cause the pain as well.

Common Medical Treatments

Most sciatica patients begin with NSAID’s such as Advil which help to bring down swelling and pain levels. Muscle relaxers and epidural steroid medicines are also used for anesthetic and swelling relief. In certain cases, surgery can be done, to fix a damaged disk or remove a tumor, for example. But many people are concerned about the side effects associated with drugs and surgery.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic

Seeking proper alignment through upper cervical chiropractic could be the answer to relieve your back pain and sciatica without drugs or surgery. The ultimate goal of upper cervical chiropractic care is to correct misalignments in the spine that may be leading to long standing postural problems.

So since upper cervical chiropractic focuses on alignment in the area of the upper spine, how does it help sciatica which is pain at the lower area of the spine? It helps because misalignment in the top of spine causes a shift that forces your body to compensate. Therefore, fixing misalignments at the top of the spine through upper cervical chiropractic, can help as your body begins to perform properly with no more over-correction for misalignments at the top of the spine. If you are interested in the benefits of upper cervical chiropractic for sciatica, begin by scheduling a consultation with an upper cervical chiropractor in your area.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

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Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net/.

One of the most difficult things a new mother can go through is to see her new baby in pain. Acid reflux in babies is a common problem that causes pain and other symptoms. The most common symptoms include excessive vomiting, cough, gagging, choking or refusing to eat, crying when eating and heartburn, gas or abdominal pain. Babies may also have colic, restricted growth, breathing difficulties, and they may have pneumonia that keeps coming back. It is a challenge for mothers and babies that is very difficult to overcome.

Causes for Acid Reflux in Babies

There are many suspected causes for acid reflux in newborns and babies, and most common treatments include acid reduction medicine. However, there is increasing evidence that birth injuries and trauma may be a possible cause. The reasons for birth injuries or trauma can include long births or extremely fast births, C-sections and posterior positioning during pregnancy and birth. Birth is a difficult process for the mother, so we often forget about the immense amount of force being put on the baby as it moves down the birth canal, leading with its head. This can put a large amount of pressure on the spine and result in misalignment which can cause acid reflux in babies.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic for Babies

Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized branch of chiropractic care that focuses specifically on certain joints in the neck and upper spine. More and more parents are finding that their babies respond positively to upper cervical chiropractic care to for their newborns acid reflux. The correction of the misalignment can cause instant results at times. Many parents report that after treatment, their constipated babies have bowel movements and experience relief of abdominal pain.

Is It Safe?

Every medical treatment carries its own list of risks and benefits. If your baby is already on medication for acid reflux, you already know this first hand as some of your babies’ symptoms have improved while drug side effects have appeared. Many studies and organizations support the use of chiropractic for babies and children. As with anything, you should use your own judgment and be sure to do your research before committing to any particular treatment. If your baby has been diagnosed with acid reflux and you are looking for an alternative to medication, speak with an upper cervical chiropractor about your baby.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

If you are experiencing pain in your neck or back, that is not something you want to ignore. We know you're in pain, and you may not be able to get into our office right away. That means you will have the temptation to crack your neck or spine. Please, don't do that. That will only make the problem worse. The best thing you can do, if you are experiencing pain, and need relief now, is ice your back. Here's a list of steps you should take to receive the most benefit from icing.

Icing Tips

Find a comfortable chair where you can recline or a bed where you can lay down
Cover an ice pack with a paper towel to ensure you won't get frost bite
Place it on the area of discomfort
Set the timer for 20 minutes and relax

Depending on the source of your pain, you may need to ice more than once a day. But don't leave the ice pack on your neck or back for any longer than 20 minutes. Just go throw it in the freezer, and leave it there for a while.

If your pain persists, it may be due to something more than a knot in your back. Here are some common causes of neck and back pain.

Neck Pain Causes

Herniated Disc – (Also called a Slipped Disc) There is a soft, gel like substance between each of your vertebra that keeps them from grinding against one another. When that gel like substance slips out of position, and two of the vertebra grind against each other, you feel the pain.

Degenerative Disc Disease – This most likely happens due to a low energy injury to the disc. Since the disc has no blood supply, it cannot go through the same healing process as other tissue, and over time the disc wears out.

Cervical Osteoarthritis – (Cervical Spondylosis) This occurs because of the degeneration of the facet joints in the cervical spine and causes Arthritis in the neck.

Whiplash – Your neck is only meant to move a certain distance in any direction. This occurs when your neck muscles are overextended.

If you iced your neck, but your pain persists, these are just some of the conditions that might be causing your pain. Even if your pain subsides after you ice a few times, it is still a good idea to have an upper cervical specialist examine you. There are many underlying conditions that could pop-up later if the initial pain is left untreated.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

Do you suffer from frequent headaches?

How can you tell if your problem is actually a migraine? Read on to learn the difference between the two.

The closest thing to compare a migraine headache to are the symptoms of a severe tension headache, but there are definitely things that set a migraine apart. Pain level is one thing. Migraines reach a much higher pain level. In fact, the pain can be so severe that it leads to nausea. Also, since migraines are actually a neurological disorder, they are often associated with sound and light sensitivities as well as aura as a precursor to the migraine (a less common symptom, but one not associated with regular headaches).

Your doctor can help you to determine if the headaches you suffer from are migraines. If they are, there are a number of options for you to consider. Some doctors provide medication to combat the chemical imbalance that leads to migraines. These may include antidepressants, beta-blockers, or even certain seizure medications (the aura experienced by some migraine sufferers is similar to that experienced by persons who have seizures). Since the medical community isn't certain how migraines arise, these medication are primarily used to treat symptoms.

Natural relief

But what if you want natural relief? Upper cervical chiropractic may be of assistance. This is because the C1 and C2 vertebrae are positioned right at the base of the brain stem. An adjustment may thus result in greatly reduced symptoms.

Research with upright MRIs has shown that when a misalignment occurs in the upper neck. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid flow is changed, which can result in migraine headaches. Correcting this upper neck misalignments has been shown to change the flow of fluid to, from and through the brain, resulting in improved brain health and reduced or eliminated migraine symptoms.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

Mixed Tension Migraines

Have you ever had two headaches at once? Did you know it's even possible to experience two headaches at the same time? Well, it is. Sometimes, a person can experience a Mixed Tension Migraine also known as a transformed migraine, chronic migraine, or chronic daily headache. That's when a person has a Tension Headache and a Migraine Headache at the same time.

Now, you probably know what a migraine is, but you might not know what a Tension headache is or why you all of the sudden have two headaches at once. A Tension headache is a common type of headache that causes pain either behind the eyes, or in the head or neck. They are caused by muscle contractions in the head or neck that are caused by certain foods, activities, or stressors.

Here's a list of factors that may trigger them:

Tension Headache Factors

Alcohol*
Eye Strain
Fatigue
Smoking*
Cold or flu
Sinus infection*
Caffeine*
Poor Posture
Emotional stress*

Those factors with asterisks are also factors that can trigger migraine headaches.

Your Plan to a Healthier Head

While these two types of headaches may occur at the same time, they may not have started out that way. Usually, when a person develops Mixed Tension Migraines, they have had a history of migraine headaches. Though, sometimes, a person can experience them so frequently that it may become difficult to differentiate between the two.

Now that you know it's possible to have two headaches at once, you can take steps to reduce the frequency of or eliminate this pain. First, you will want to get to the root cause of these Mixed Tension Migraines by seeking the care of an upper cervical chiropractor. They can determine the commonality between the two types of headaches that may be causing them.

A common cause of migraines and tension headaches is a head or neck injury, which can lead to misalignments in the upper neck and changes in blood flow. These misalignments can also affect the balance of your muscles around your head, neck and spine. It is important to have a proper upper cervical evaluation including three-dimensional x-rays to determine if this may be the cause of your mixed tension migraines.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

Vertigo is one of those conditions you can't ignore. It may only last for a few moments or it might be recurring condition. So, what is it? It is the sensation that a room is spinning even when there is no movement. This happens due to a dysfunction in the Vestibular system, which is part of the inner ear, and allows us to maintain our balance and recognize spatial orientation. Now that you know what it is, it is important to know what causes it.

Vertigo Inducing Conditions

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo – This is the most common cause of Vertigo and is a sudden spinning sensation. It can be triggered by sudden movements of the head and neck. It can be the result of a fall, car accident, other collision, or just standing up too quickly.

Meniere's Disease – This is a disorder of the inner ear that leads to hearing loss, Tinnitus, sometimes causes pressure in one of your ears, and can occur at any age but most often occurs in people in their 40's or 50's.

Vestibular Neuronitis – This is an inflammation of the inner ear, or the Vestibular Nerve, that causes this nerve to send incorrect signals to the brain that the body is moving. It may also lead to hearing loss or a ringing in your ear, and can be triggered by something as common as a cold or a flu.

Labrynthitis – This is an irritation and swelling of the inner ear and can lead to hearing loss. It is usually caused by a virus or bacteria that can be triggered by a cold, flu allergies, respiratory infection, and various other conditions.

When people think of Vertigo, they may think of a chronic condition that only effects a small percentage of people. The truth is it can affect anyone at any age. Sometimes it only comes because of standing up to quickly or because of a collision and only lasts for a few minutes or hours. But for some people it can become a chronic condition caused by one of the above conditions due to an upper cervical injury. For those who suffer from recurring and often more intense episodes, it is important for them not to accept it as part of their lives but to seek proper Upper Cervical care.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

Upper Cervical is an upper cervical chiropractic approach that provides a natural, non-invasive answer for a number of health issues, including migraines, back and neck pain, ear aches in children and more. One little known fact is that Upper Cervical also helps those suffering with vertigo.

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo presents with dizziness, the feeling that everything around the afflicted is spinning. While vertigo is typically a symptom of inner ear infections, it has also been linked to vision problems. It’s difficult to establish the exact causes of vertigo, however studies are showing that upper cervical problems can be an underlying cause for some forms of vertigo, including cervicogenic vertigo, Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) Meniere’s disease and Disembarkment Syndrome. Symptoms of vertigo are generally intermittent, however, can be extremely incapacitating and can last anywhere from 15 minutes to a number of hours. During an episode, besides a feeling of dizziness and the spinning sensation, the patient can feel extremely sleepy. All of the vertigo symptoms can make it difficult for the individual to walk because of the spinning and dizziness, and also makes it hard to go to work or carry out regular day to day activities.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic - Upper Cervical Care

The upper cervical region of the spine pertains to the two vertebrae found at the top of the spine, underneath the head and it's responsible for the flexibility and rotation of the neck and head. Similar to the rest of the spine, this area is vulnerable to injury. In many cases, patients are able to recall a specific injury like a car accident or other head injury that took place before they experienced symptoms. In other cases, sufferers aren't able to pinpoint the injury that led to their vertigo problems. As a matter of fact, it can take months for the signs of vertigo to show up after an injury.

Because there's a large number of important nerves transmitted through the upper cervical spine area, traveling to and from the brain, an injury to this area, even simple stresses, can cause a number of problems in other parts of the body; this is where the connection between Upper Cervical and vertigo presents itself. If the vertebrae are forced out of alignment, even marginally, vertigo can develop. Upper Cervical care entails correcting the injured cervical vertebrae's positioning, thereby realigning the vertebrae, which can eliminate, or at the very least, reduce the symptoms of several types of vertigo.

If you're tired of feeling dizzy, off balance and like you're living in a fog, Upper Cervical may just be the answer to your problems. A lot of primary care physicians believe that vertigo is primarily caused by neck or ear issues, however they typically don't know how to treat it except to prescribe prescription medications. Upper Cervical provides a safe, gentle, natural vertigo approach that's proven to help vertigo problems that are related to upper cervical misalignment and are well worth considering.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net/

So what does Multiple Sclerosis have to do with Migraine Headaches? New research is now providing a possible explanation of the correlation between MS & Migraine sufferers and how Upper Cervical Specialists are able to get such good results with the correction of Atlas misalignments in both conditions.

A paper, titled “The Possible Role of Cranio-Cervical Trauma and Abnormal CSF Hydrodynamics in the Genesis of Multiple Sclerosis," was recently published and appears in the journal Physiological Chemistry and Physics and Medical NMR (Sept. 20, 2011, 41: 1-17).

Commenting on the study, the lead researcher, Raymond V. Damadian stated, “These new observations have uncovered biomechanical barriers that appear to give rise to multiple sclerosis, and, even more excitingly, these barriers may be therapeutically addressable."

Translation: problems in the neck affect the flow of fluid to and from the brain and this change in fluid is likely leading to multiple sclerosis. The findings are based on viewing the real-time flow of cerebrospinal fluid in a series of randomly chosen patients with multiple sclerosis. The cerebrospinal fluid, known as CSF, lubricates the brain and spinal cord.

In addition, the Upper Cervical Research Foundation (ucrf.org) has been doing some very interesting research with Phase Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (PC MR) lately.

In their paper Changes in Cerebral Blood Flow Patterns and Velocities of Migraine Subjects Following an Atlas Correction they stated "Results of a case study describing a subject diagnosed with migraine headache (without aura) reveal compelling results. The subject was evaluated using the protocol of the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (upper cervical) to determine the presence of an Atlas misalignment. After Atlas correction, a follow-up PC MR Study demonstrated changes in cerebral venous outflow. A change in vessel outflow pattern from a jugular to the paravertebral plexus route was discerned. Venous flow rate and vessel pulsatility decreased as well as cerebrospinal flow rate across the Atlas (C-1) vertebra. Most significantly, the imaging procedure measured a distinct decrease in intracranial compliance. The subject obtained relief from migraine headache pain consistent to maintenance of his Atlas correction by the end of thirty days. The PC MR exam continued to show improvement of the hemodynamic parameters measured over the 16-week study period consistent to maintenance of Atlas alignment."

What does that all mean in English...if you correct problems with the alignment of the bones at the top of the neck with a precise form of chiropractic care called upper cervical then it changes the blood and CSF flow to and from the brain to the body. And since Migraine headaches are frequently vascular in origin...changing the blood flow from the brain is important and can take away the migraines completely...as in this case study and many others.

So what does this all have to do with Multiple Sclerosis?

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society website Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI) , is a reported abnormality in blood drainage from the brain and spinal cord, this may contribute to nervous system damage in MS. CCSVI has been getting a lot of press recently because Dr. Paolo Zamboni from the University of Ferrara in Italy published his initial findings in June 2009 from a study of approximately 65 patients. Based on the results of preliminary research which has been published in respected peer journals, Dr. Zamboni and others have recommended larger scale studies to determine if CCSVI may be treated through an endovascular surgical procedure, which involves inserting a tiny balloon or stent into blocked veins in order to improve the flow of blood out of the brain and spinal cord. This procedure produced complete remissions in MS in 90% of the participants of the study!

My question is why are the veins blocked to begin with? What has occurred that has led to the changes in the veins? Instead of forcing the veins open with a stent...why not correct the underlying cause of the malformation?

Then you look at Dr. Erin Elster's research with trauma and multiple sclerosis where she found that 90% of patients diagnosed with MS have had a trauma to the head or neck prior to the onset of the symptoms. And when x-rayed these patients have a clearly misaligned spine that is putting pressure on the nervous system and the blood vessels. When these misalignments of the upper cervical spine are corrected over 90% of the patients in her study had results. Some patients were able to get out of their wheelchairs!

What happened to them? The same thing that Dr. Zamboni was doing...changing the blood flow from the brain to the body. Only in Dr. Elster's results she wasn't artificially forcing the vessels open she was correcting the underlying cause of the vessels malformation!

Now not all MS patients responded to either of the treatment options...and perhaps there are other factors involved...but wouldn't it make sense if you have MS or Migraine headaches to have an upper neck evaluation by an upper cervical specialist? Especially if you have a history of head or neck trauma?

The longer you wait the more damage is done...put your scepticism aside and see if you can be helped!

References:
http://www.ucrf.org/projects-funding/project-descriptions
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/research/intriguing-leads-on-the-horizon/ccsvi/index.aspx
http://www.erinelster.com/ConditionsDetail.aspx?ConditionID=17

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net/

I've got that Jaw Clicking Feeling

So, you feel clicking in your jaw, but you're not sure what it is. Well, it may be TMJ, also known as TMD. This occurs when your Temporomandibular Joint, which is the hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, is moved out of position. That little joint gives you the ability to move your jaw up and down and side to side, as well as to talk chew and yawn. So, what causes TMJ? Well, one of the most common causes of TMJ is whiplash. But that is not the only cause. It can also be caused by the following factors.

Causes of TMJ

Grinding or clenching teeth (This puts undue pressure on the joint)
Arthritis in the Temporomandibular joint
Movement of the soft cushion or disc that is between the joint's ball and socket
Stress (this can cause your facial or jaw muscles to tighten)

No matter what caused it, it is easy to just learn to live with this condition, but it is important not to leave it uncared for. TMJ can be a sign of an underlying problem, so just learning to live with it can lead to adverse effects. So, what can you do about it? Well, here are some things you can do to alleviate your jaw or facial pain:

TMJ Remedies

Use moist heat or cold packs – Apply an icepack to the side of your face and temple for 10 minutes, then gently stretch your jaw (no further then is comfortable), and then hold a warm towel or washcloth to the side of your face for five minutes
Eat soft foods – This will allow your Temporomandibular Joint and other facial muscles to rest
Relax your Jaw – Don't overuse your jaw by yawning too much. Also, don't chew such things as gum and ice as little as possible. Other things to avoid are yelling and singing
Good Posture – It's easy to cradle the phone between our ear and shoulder, but it's not recommended
Teeth Positioning – Keeping your teeth apart will help you to not clench them

The Best TMJ Remedy

Okay, so whether your TMJ is due to whiplash, grinding your teeth, or anything else, there is one other thing you can do to relieve the pressure. In fact, this last one will not only relieve the pressure, it will eliminate the pressure by focusing on the underlying cause. Frequently TMJ is a result of a misalignment the head and neck. Accidents and injuries will tear loose the connective tissue that holds the spine in place and allow the head shift slightly from its normal centered position. This will lead to uneven pressure into the jaw joints. Correcting the head and neck alignment with a specific upper cervical corrective procedure has shown to be extremely effective at addressing the underlying cause of TMJ and other conditions.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

Neck pain is something that effects two thirds of people at some point in their lives and is almost as common as low back pain. As much as 10% of the population has low grade neck pain and as much as 5% of people debilitating neck pain.¹ Neck pain is difficult to properly diagnose given the intricacy of the head and neck region of the body. There is a lot happening between major arteries and veins, muscles, nerves, the bones in the neck and the skull.

It is difficult to properly discern between all the sources of possible neck pain and being able to address the appropriate issue. The head weighs on average anywhere from 10-12 pounds and depends on all the parts for the neck for proper stabilization. The bones in the neck need to be in the proper position structurally which also affects the nerves controlling the neck muscles to properly balance and move the head.

A head that is out of position can cause neck pain based on structure alone, compiled with the affects on the nervous system it is a perfect storm. The single most important part of the neck that should be examined in any chronic neck pain sufferer is the Atlas (C1) vertebra in the upper neck known as the upper cervical spine.

Relief to chronic neck pain is something that specialist, Dr Dan Spinato, is helping people in San Diego achieve. As an Upper Cervical Chiropractor, Dr Spinato specializes in finding the root cause of chronic neck pain and correcting the cause through a custom adjustment to the Atlas bone. Using advanced methods, neck pain has been scientifically proven through research to improve in as little as one precise adjustment.²

If you are suffering from chronic neck pain that is affecting your life having your neck examined by an upper cervical chiropractor could be the key to solving your health issues.

References:
1. Bovim G, Scharader H, Sand T. Neck pain in the general population. Spine. 1994: 19:1207. 2. Rochester RP: Neck pain and disability outcomes following chiropractic upper cervical care: a retrospective case series. J Can Chiropr Assoc 2009, 53(3):173-85

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

Migraine headaches are one of the most common health problems that people face. As seasons change, so do our routines and our surroundings. The fall is possibly one of the hardest seasons if you have migraines, and it’s not because of all the pumpkin spice.

A common occurrence with many migraine sufferers is that the weather can affect or even trigger migraines. There are many drastic changes that happen during this season such as temperature, the amount of daylight, air pressure, and the environment around us. Perhaps the biggest culprit is air pressure (aka barometric pressure) as it can rapidly change when coupled with temperature changes. Shorter periods of daylight also affect the nervous. As we marvel at the beauty of the colors of the fall leaves, they also contribute to pollen and dust in the air. Anyone of these factors has the capability to cause a migraine, but the combination can increase the frequency of migraines.

Dr. Ian Bulow, a migraine specialist in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is taking a different approach to providing natural relief from migraine headaches. As an Upper Cervical Chiropractor, Dr. Bulow is an expert on the Atlas Bone (C1 vertebra) and how it relates to the brainstem and central nervous system. The Atlas bone encompasses the brainstem from where it exits the skull and passes through the spine to become the entire nervous system.

If the Atlas moves from its natural position and becomes misaligned, it affects the brain and entire nervous system. This leads to the body not being able to adapt. By careful analyzing and providing a specific chiropractic adjustment only when needed, the Atlas can return to its proper position. Studies have shown that patients with migraine headaches have improved with as little as one Upper Cervical Chiropractic adjustment.1

When the Atlas is in its proper alignment, the nervous system can normally function in regulating migraines and the healing process over time.

References:

Elster EL. Upper cervical chiropractic care for a patient with chronic migraine headaches with an appendix summarizing an additional 100 headache cases. J Vert Sublux Res 2003;AUG(3):1-10

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

Migraines are a brutal reality that make even day to day tasks seem challenging. A Migraine episode always seems to come at the worst time and always lasts longer than anyone would hope. It is estimated that 35 million Americans suffer from Migraine Headaches, and 27 million are women.

Migraines typically present with an onset of an aura or throbbing around the top of the head. Symptoms include ringing in the ears, visual disturbances, and in extreme cases nausea and vomiting. As a health condition, they can also cause healthcare providers of all types headaches. Each migraine case is as unique as the person who has it, and treatment options fall short as they are typically generic. Common treatments include heavy-grade pharmaceuticals or avoiding the common trigger foods such as wine, caffeine and chocolate.

There is a new treatment being used in a few places in the United States. This new method involves an electronic nerve stimulator that is surgically implanted around the major nerves of the head. The stimulator works to treat migraines by using an electrical impulse to “jam” the frequency of pain felt by the brain.1 Some patients have reported that there has been a reduction in the frequency of migraines but not resolution. This treatment has only been used on 8,000 patients and requires a commitment to having an electronic device in your head. Many migraine sufferers are now looking for nontraditional and natural treatments.

In, Rancho Penasquitos California, patients are finding a new way to help relieve their migraines and regain their health naturally. Migraine specialist, Dr. Dan Spinato, is taking a fresh approach to this healthcare epidemic. Dr. Spinato is an Upper Cervical Chiropractor who specializes in the Atlas bone (C1 vertebra) and the brainstem. In his experience, Dr. Spinato has found that migraine headaches are often a result, not the cause, of the problem. The alignment of the Atlas, which is the top bone in the neck, is crucial to patients with migraines. Because the brainstem is housed in the spinal bones, a misalignment can cause neurological and vascular deficits that often lead to headaches.

In clinical research, large groups of patients with migraine headaches have not only benefited from Upper Cervical Chiropractic, but many have even had a complete resolution in as little as 1 or 2 adjustments.2 When the misalignment is properly measured and then precisely adjusted according to the individual needs of each patient, headaches often resolve naturally.

References:

Watts K. Have migraines? New treatment now offered in Portland.http://www.kptv.com/story/30112594/have-migraines-new-treatment-now-offered-in-portland#ixzz3p177Q9L3 (accessed 19 October 2015).
Elster EL. Upper cervical chiropractic care for a patient with chronic migraine headaches with an appendix summarizing an additional 100 headache cases. J Vert Sublux Res 2003;AUG(3):1-10

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

You may wonder why there is a miscommunication happening in the brain and how this manifests itself as a migraine. Well, a misalignment in the upper area of the neck can place undue pressure on the spinal column and the brainstem. The brainstem is the communication highway from the brain to the body. When pressure is exerted here, it slows down the flow of the cerebral blood and spinal fluid. This restricts the ability of the brain to communicate with the rest of the body.

What was Revealed in a Recent Study?

There was a study done involving two people that both had whiplash, and as a result, suffered from horrible migraine headaches. The patients went through specific testing using an upper MRI machine. This measured the flow of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). The result of the MRI showed that the Atlas, or the uppermost vertebrae in the neck, was indeed misaligned, and this was placing pressure on the brainstem. The flow of CSF was hindered, the end outcome being a migraine headache.

At this point, both patients were treated by adjusting their upper cervical spine. Then they were rescanned. The flow of the CSF had normalized after their adjustments. They received an almost instant reprieve from their headaches!

Supporting Research

Previous researchers have found that an obstruction in the spinal column shows a connection between intracranial pressure headaches and CSF flow. This type of obstruction can cause many conditions in addition to headaches, such as a numb feeling, pain in the area of the neck, a tingling sensation in the body, and other physical complaints.

Whatever way the misalignment presents itself, the only real way to relieve the symptoms this causes is to address the root problem. This is done through the care of an upper cervical chiropractor, such as Dr. Dan Spinato of Rancho Penasquitos, California. Dr. Spinato can examine the vertebra in the upper neck to see where the misalignment originates and can begin to correct this through the appropriate adjustments.

Once the spine is back in alignment, CSF and cerebral blood will begin to flow normally once again. This will restore communication in the body, and you will begin to feel relief from the pain of your migraines. Schedule your assessment today with Dr. Spinato, and get your life back on track.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

Anyone with migraines would be thrilled to hear that there is a cure for migraines, but that is not the case. A new treatment using Botox has gained popularity over the past year for migraine relief, but it has its limitations. The FDA regulated migraine treatment is explicitly for controlling chronic migraines and is not a cure. While many people have experienced some temporary relief using botox injections, it is not a viable long-term option.

Migraine Facts:

Migraines are now considered to be a neurological disease that is one of the most common conditions in the world. In America, it is estimated that as much as 12% of the population suffers from migraines on a regular basis.(1) To make matters worse, women are up to 3x as likely to have migraines in their lifetime.

Treatment Options:

Migraines are a unique condition that affects each individual person differently. They also give major headaches to all kinds of healthcare providers as the standard methods of treatment are limited in their success. As with the Botox, most treatment and drug options only provide temporary relief and do not correct the cause of the condition. This often leads patients to feel defeated and hopeless in their choices, which has spurred a market for natural migraine relief and treatment.

To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and migraines download our complimentary e-book by clicking the image below:

A new look at an old problem:

As a migraine specialist, I see a variety of the options out there, and people come to me when nothing else has worked. I focus on the integrity of the upper neck, brain, and nervous system as they relate to migraines. By looking at the body first and the condition second, we offer patients something different and effective. By focusing on the proper alignment of the first bone in the neck known as the atlas, patients experience natural relief once we can achieve proper alignment.

When the atlas bone is out of its proper position, it has negative effects on the brain, nervous system, and even blood flow which all play a crucial role in the etiology of migraines. Clinical studies have shown that patients receiving upper cervical chiropractic care have not only experienced short-term relief but even resolution long-term.(2)

If you have tried many options with no results, I would love to see how we can help.

References:

Migraine Research Foundation. About Migraines. http://www.migraineresearchfoundation.org/about-migraine.html (accessed 4 March 2016).
Elster EL. Upper cervical chiropractic care for a patient with chronic migraine headaches with an appendix summarizing an additional 100 headache cases. J Vert Sublux Res 2003;AUG(3):1-10

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

headachew09 The sudden onset of headaches or experiencing more headaches than usual could be the result of an injury or medical condition. When headaches are the result of these factors, they are called secondary headaches. Unfortunately, medications are often ineffective at managing them. For some, medications commonly prescribed for headaches can have no effect and in others, they can actually cause headaches to become worse.

There are a number of reasons that this might happen. Some people see issues because the ingredients in the medication (such as caffeine) are not well tolerated. The type of headaches experienced and the frequency of which medication is taken can also contribute to the aforementioned outcomes.

Common Causes of Secondary Headaches

Let’s take a look at a few common and less common reasons behind secondary headaches.

Concussion
Post-Concussion Syndrome
Dental Problems
Panic Attacks
Acute Sinusitis
Dehydration
Whiplash
Certain medications
Structural Damage at Base of the Skull (Chiari Malformation)
Misuse of pain medication
Damage to the nerve connecting the brain and face (Trigeminal Neuralgia)

Helping Secondary Headaches

Knowing the source of a headache can help determine where to go to get help for the pain and suffering. For example, a misalignment of the top two vertebrae of the neck can hinder communication between the brainstem and the body. A misalignment of as little as ¼ millimeter can impede normal nervous system function and communication. Complications arise if this is the case and is left uncorrected for long periods of time.

In such situations, the disease or injury responsible for secondary headaches could be resulting from this structural imbalance. Scheduling an appointment with an upper cervical chiropractor will determine if there is a need for an alignment of the upper neck vertebrae. Gently easing the vertebrae into place will aid in opening up communication between the brain and the body. When this is accomplished, it allows for natural relief from chronic headaches.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

This is a great question, and it is usually one of the first things a patient will ask. Understanding the difference between NUCCA and general chiropractic starts with one very basic discrepancy. While general chiropractic involves popping, twisting, or cracking of the spine, NUCCA is a more specific and gentle adjustment.

What makes NUCCA such a precise procedure? The idea is that focus is placed on the C1 and C2 vertebrae at the top of the neck—the upper cervical spine. When this part of the neck is in alignment, the rest of the spine should follow suit. However, this is a very sensitive area of the spine calling for precise adjustments. Therefore, very specific calculations are made to ensure the correct realignment is provided.

Because upper cervical adjustments are so gentle, the effects are often more long-lasting. The body doesn’t fight back against gentle pressure as it does if confronted with a sudden jerking motion. When an adjustment stays in place longer, the body has more time to heal from the damage caused by the misalignment, and the patient enjoys paying for fewer visits.

The NUCCA Process

NUCCA starts with an examination, patient history, and specialized x-rays that reveal the exact location and degree of a misalignment. This allows the practitioner to know how to position the patient, where to stand, and the location to place the gentle pressure for optimal results. Over time, it may be necessary to take some more x-rays. This will show how well the adjustments are holding and can help determine a continued course of maintenance so that adjustments are provided only as needed.

Imagine you had a water leak in your home. Would you prefer the plumber search for the specific location of the leak and fix only that or make adjustments to every pipe in the home? This helps to illustrate the difference between general chiropractic and the precision of upper cervical care.

Even if you have had a bad experience with general chiropractic in the past, I encourage you to give NUCCA a try. You’ll be amazed at the difference and just how much can be accomplished in even one adjustment.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Spinato call (858) 484-0444 or just click the button below.

How Are Migraines Related to High Blood Pressure?

A recent article in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research documented the positive effects of specific, upper cervical chiropractic adjustments on a 25- year-old female with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension and migraines.

A 25-year-old female with medically diagnosed hypertension presented to an upper cervical chiropractic office for treatment. The patient also had symptoms of migraine headaches occurring two times per week. She had been taking Hydrochlorothiazide for her hypertension.

The Upper Cervical Approach

A thorough history and examination were performed and her blood pressure was 134/98 mmHg. The patient was diagnosed with an upper neck misalignment and specific upper cervical x-rays were taken to confirm. Paraspinal thermography, supine leg length assessment, postural assessment and blood pressure measurements were taken at each follow-up visit.

The patient received upper cervical specific chiropractic care for twelve weeks. By the end of care the patient experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure to 114/80 mmHg and also experienced a significant decrease in both frequency and severity of migraine headache symptoms.

This case study is consistent with past research that has looked at the upper cervical spine, blood flow, migraine headaches and hypertension.

Does Your Back Hurt?

If you have back pain you know how debilitating it can be. Back pain is extremely common with 80% of people experiencing back pain at some point in their lives.

In fact, back pain is now the single leading cause of disability worldwide.

So if you have back pain or back muscle knots, what can you do about it?

Well, here are 5 simple steps to help you conquer that nagging back injury.

Clean up Your Diet

Nutrition can play a major role in chronic conditions like lower back pain. Minimizing your intake of processed foods containing trans fats, sugar, gluten, etc. can make a big difference in the amount of inflammation your body is producing.

Dietary changes don’t have to happen overnight. The important thing is to start. Pick one thing on the list and commit to doing that one for now. Cutting out processed foods is a good place to start.

Make sure you’re getting plenty of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to chronic lower back pain, so make sure that your getting your 20 minutes of sun on your face and arms every day and also it may be necessary for you to take a vitamin D supplement.

Change Your Sleeping Habits

In my experience, regularly sleeping on your stomach can create severe damage in your neck and back. If you are a stomach sleeper make sure you make the change to your side or back as quickly as possible.

If you are a stomach sleeper, tonight, make the decision to begin to sleep on your side. It is very difficult to move from your stomach (the worst) to sleeping on your back (the best). Remember, if your back hurts in this side sleeping position, you can place a pillow between your knees to alleviate pressure on the lower back.

Commit to a Regular Exercise Routine

The best exercise is the one that you will do consistently. A sedentary lifestyle of sitting around all day has been linked to lower back pain. Whether it is swimming, fast walking, Pilates, yoga or another exercise program, the key is consistency. Exercise has been shown to improve lower back pain.

Postural Evaluation and Care

When the spine is not properly aligned due to accidents and injuries, lower back pain can frequently develop. Scientific research tells us that Chiropractic adjustments are effective for helping people with lower back problems.

Chiropractic care has also been shown to be more cost-effective than the medical approach of drugs or surgery.

In addition, chiropractic patients report a greater level of satisfaction with chiropractic care, compared to the medical approach.

The upper cervical chiropractic approach that we utilize addresses underlying postural problems without any of the cracking, twisting or popping associated with other spinal approaches.

Connect the Musculoskeletal System

Along with chiropractic care some healthcare facilities offer physical rehabilitation exercise programs to supplement their chiropractic adjustments.

This type of physical rehabilitation is helpful in improving functional movement, such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, etc.

Frequently these types of programs will focus on improving muscular strength, flexibility, balance, range of motion and overall mobility.

Now is the time for you to take a massive amount of action!

Without you taking control of your health and the decisions you make when it comes to your body, you will likely continue to suffer with chronic conditions like lower back pain.

Just to review, here are your action steps to get your back, feeling great:

1. Change your diet

2. Change your sleeping position

3. Commit to a regular exercise routine

4. Find a chiropractor who combines both chiropractic adjustments and physical rehabilitation.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net/

Why Is the Shoulder Weak?

When you say that your shoulder is weak, what do you mean? Do you mean that your shoulder and arm is numb? Do you feel tingling in your shoulder and arm? Do you have a loss of strength? Do you have pain in your shoulder that is causing this weakness?

Depending on the answer to those questions may help you in determining what is wrong with your shoulder. Shoulder weakness can be caused by many things, including problems with the shoulder itself, such as rotator cuff injuries, labral injuries shoulder dislocations and separations. You can also have shoulder weakness because of injury to nerves.

For instance, when you have problems in your neck that are leading to nerve irritation this can severely influence your shoulder and arm. Nerves leave the lower portion of your neck and go down your arm all the way to your hand. So frequently and a shoulder, arm or hand problem originates in the neck.

Neck Specialists

If you are seeking to find someone who is an expert at evaluating neck and shoulder injuries, then an upper cervical chiropractor may be your answer.

An upper cervical chiropractor specializes in evaluating head, neck and spinal alignment, that may be leading to nerve pressure and resulting symptoms.

The 1^st step when you come to an upper cervical chiropractic office is to take a thorough history and then evaluate you for postural imbalances and nerve dysfunction that may be leading to shoulder weakness and other health problems.

If you are found to have postural misalignments the Dr will take specific x-rays to evaluate the alignment of the spine. He or she will then be able to mathematically calculate how best to realign your spinal column and improve nerve function.

Upper cervical chiropractors are able to accomplish this without your popping, cracking or twisting of the spine associated with general chiropractic and other manipulative treatment because of the precision with which they work.

There are many individuals that feel relief from pain and improved nerve function almost as soon as they are placed back into normal alignment. For others this relief may take longer. Once proper alignment has been reached the upper cervical chiropractor can show the individual some things that they can do to help stay in alignment.

How Is Your Shoulder Problem Affecting Your Life?

When shoulder weakness or pain is involved even walking can be painful. Also when a shoulder is in pain simple things like eating and drinking can become miserable. In addition to these things when there is a shoulder problem every movement we make can cause the pain to increase and the injury to become worse.

Shoulder weakness and pain may also start to interfere with sleeping habits. Every movement while sleeping can be painful and cause trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Not being properly rested through the day will cause problems of its own. Shoulder problems are really something that needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.

To find an upper cervical specialist in your area go to www.upcspine.com or if you are in the San Diego, California area to schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net/

What is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) involve pain affecting the muscles used for chewing. People with TMJ will experience severe jaw pain. It is the most common reason for jaw pain other than dental reasons, like a toothache. Sufferers of this type of disorder may also experience tightening and restricted motion of these muscles.

If you’ve ever noticed a clicking sound when you chew – you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ. It can also mimic the feelings of tooth pain, cause headaches and ringing in the ears and dizziness. Surprisingly, a large number of the adult population is affected by this – anywhere between 20-30% of us, usually those between the ages of 20 and 40. It is more common for women to suffer from this than men. One of the most common causes for this type of pain is car accidents or other trauma. The symptoms can appear immediately after the trauma, or they can take years to become noticeable.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

Upper Cervical Chiropractic is a specific speciality of chiropractic which puts its emphasis on the atlanto-occipital joint in the upper spine. This division of chiropractic has been in practice since the 1930’s. It has many positive effects on the alignment of the spine, posture and the symptoms experienced by those who suffer with TMJ. It is supported by many years of anecdotal and empirical evidence. The purpose of upper cervical chiropractic for TMJ is to reverse the damage done by the trauma that caused it.

How Does it Work?

An upper cervical chiropractor corrects posture and alignment of the head, neck and spine, which can relieve painful symptoms of many disorders, including TMJ. Upper cervical chiropractic is safe, precise and gentle. When your muscles and bones are pulling evenly they each carry the weight and perform the functions they were meant to do, so they are not overly taxed or burdened with tasks and weights they were not meant to carry.

How To Get Started

Schedule a consultation with an upper cervical chiropractor in your area. To find a doctor in your area go to www.upcspine.com or if you are in the San Diego, California area to schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net/

Through the Brain Stem...

The Brain stem is an extension of the brain itself that extends down into the upper neck area (upper cervical spine). The brain stem is susceptible to injury if the Atlas or Axis the top two bones in the spine are twisted or tilted as a result of traumatic accidents or injuries. Most of these injuries are to the head or neck. Examples would be car accidents, falls, diving accidents, surfing injuries, snowboarding falls, childhood falls from trees, off bikes, changing tables and more.

The common denominator is an injury that has torn loose the tissue that holds the spine in place in the upper neck which creates a weakness, which will allow the weight of the head (10-14 lbs) to become displaced from it's normal position. This misalignment of the head and neck relationship can be as little as 3/4 of degree and the brain will have to adapt to this new position. Our eyes and ears are created to be balanced. When the head is not balanced properly compensations will develop in order to rebalance the structure of the body and the eyes and ears through the righting reflex in the brain. Without this compensation we would just fall over when we stood up in a gravity environment.

The longer this compensation exists the more our body must adapt to this structural misalignment. This can lead to conditions like scoliosis or abnormal curvature of the spine.

Eventually we will develop symptoms as a result of nerve dysfunction.

Which symptoms?

That depends on the person and the nerves that are effected.

For instance the brain stem through the Vagus nerves controls the digestive system. Dysfunction here can lead to conditions like Acid Reflux, constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and colic in kids.

And what about headaches?

Headaches can be caused by both the blood flow and nerve flow changes from the brain to the body and head and face when the brain stem function is altered.

So what can happen when the brain stem pressure is removed through the correction of an upper neck misalignment by a qualified upper cervical specialist?

Amazing things!

Amanda is a patient of ours who at only 21 years of age had had several head and neck traumas beginning in early childhood. These conditions in Amanda's body where leading to a daily dependence on Tums and Advil to just get through the day.

Thank God that is all over now.

Here is Amanda's story.

“When I first came into this office I was hoping to get rid of my acid reflux, because every night when I laid down I would get it regardless of what I ate. I also headaches, terrible allergies and generalized pain and aches throughout my body.

Now only 6 weeks into my care I sleep better at night, my sinus passages are clear, my breathing has improved. No acid reflux! I haven’t had an episode in weeks. I no longer need to take the Tums or the Advil that was just normal to me before.

I am happier in general because all of my pain and discomfort is gone! My work and service to the Lord has improved, I am more willing to take the extra step and go the extra mile.

You may think that there is no cure for the problem that you are dealing with, your normal doctor may think that you are being ridiculous, but NUCCA care is the cure…at 21 years old I have never felt so good!”

Are you ready to feel good again or maybe for the first time?

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

When a 2-year-old little girl falls down the stairs what is the typical response? The parents would pick her up and check on her see if there are any notable injuries. If they were concerned about her in any way the parents would take that little girl to the emergency room and get her checked out medically. They may perform X-Rays, a Cat Scan, and other testing. If all those tests come back negative then they would release her back to her parents and tell them that she is going to be okay.

But what if she wasn't okay? What if when she fell and hit her head the ligaments and muscles that connect the head and neck were damaged.

Creating a slight misalignment at the atlas (the top bone in the spine). Once that bone is misaligned and locked out of it's normal position it creates a weakness. This weakness allows the spine to break down and lock into a stressed position. In this stressed position frequently one of the legs will appear shorter than the other when laying flat on your back. And one hip will be lower than the other when in the standing position.

Now in this new stressed position the body begins to grow. With the head slightly tilted to one side and the hips uneven that little girl hits her growth spurt at the age of 8 and a curvature begins to develop. By the time that little girl is 13 she has a 12 degree Scoliosis like the one you see in the picture.

Now lets look at a different scenario. This time the Mom of that 2-year-old little girl is a patient of a NUCCA chiropractor. So after the fall the little girl isn't sleeping well and just isn't acting like herself, she is brought into a NUCCA office to have her alignment evaluated. During the exam the little girl is found to have a one inch leg length difference!

After the exam the little girl is adjusted in her upper cervical spine. Her legs immediately level...the Mom is amazed! That night she sleeps great again and is just like herself again the next day.

So what were we able to save her from? Scoliosis? Ear infections? ADHD? Headaches? Digestive problems? There is no way to know for sure. But without a doubt she will now grow up a healthier girl because her spine has been restored to it's normal alignment.

The most common times for a child to develop a misalignment are after birth, when they begin to lift their head, when they begin to crawl and when they begin to walk. After those milestones a child should only be evaluated if they have had a head or neck trauma such as a fall or car crash. About 50% of the kids that are evaluated are misaligned. There will be no other time better than in childhood to correct those problems and allow that child to grow up as healthy as possible. It is much easier to grow healthy kids than it is to repair damaged adults!

Bad posture, scoliosis, nursing homes and NUCCA

New research is indicating that the shape of your spine could be a clue that you'll need help with daily activities when your older and that you may end up in a nursing home. Scoliosis or curvature of the spine is the leading indicator older people will need help with daily activities.

Turns out spinal shape and angle is a risk factor for nursing home admission in later life, according to a new study published in the Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences.

In the study, researchers at Toho University in Japan measured the spinal posture of more than 800 participants (58 percent female) 65 years of age and older using a computer-assisted noninvasive device for calculating the architecture of the spine.

Spinal posture changes with age, but accumulated evidence shows that good spinal posture is important in allowing the aged to maintain independent lives," study authors stated in a press release.

They pinpointed a spinal angle called the trunk angle of inclination, which is between true vertical and a straight line from the first thoracic vertebra in the neck to the first sacral vertebra in the lower spine, as the one most likely to predict the need for help with daily activities like bathing, eating, and dressing in old age.

When seniors with the trunk angle of inclination in their spines begin to depend on others, home assistance or nursing home admission may follow, the researchers said. A followup with study participants four and a half years after they were first measured found that:

More than 15 percent were dependent on help with daily living activities.
More than 7 percent had died.
Participants with the most severe angle of spinal inclination were more than three times more likely to become dependent on others.

So what is the best way to maintain a normal and balanced posture? NUCCA Has been shown to balance the heavy head over the center of the spine and the center of the pelvis leading to equal weight distribution into the feet and normal and balanced posture.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

Childbirth is frequently a difficult process that can result in damage to the newborn. One example is: a child born with an injured upper cervical, the uppermost vertebra between the back of the head and the remainder of the spinal column. This injury is often the result of vacuum extraction during childbirth, or it could be due to the baby's umbilical cord wrapping around its neck. A byproduct of this type of injury is acid reflux, a painful condition caused by liquid from the stomach draining back into and irritating the esophagus.

Most associate acid reflux as a condition reserved for adults who eat heavily, however, more and more infants are receiving this diagnosis in their young lives. Symptoms of a baby with acid reflux include arching of the back, spitting up, crying after feeding, gas and refusing to feed from the breast or a bottle. Oftentimes, mothers seek the assistance of a pediatric GI doctor, who, as it appears, simply prescribes the infant a dose of ranitidine or lansoprazole, to attempt to address the symptoms, but not correct the core of the condition.

The Upper Neck Connection

In recent studies, though, researchers have noticed a trend that links birth injuries of the upper cervical together with acid reflux. A number of mothers of babies with acid reflux experienced a troubling child delivery, meaning that labor may have been prolonged or the fetus was in an abnormal position, both complications that often result in cesarean sections. With these observations, researchers have investigated the matter further. In Hillary Marek's (2010) book, Understand Colic, the author cites a study reported by Dr. Erin Elster, D.C., regarding sixteen infants who had upper cervical chiropractic treatment to eliminate acid reflux disease. It was concluded that: "A casual link between birth trauma-induced upper cervical injury and the onset of acid reflux...appears to exist.

Correcting the injury to the upper cervical spine through the use of IUCCA (International Upper Cervical Chiropractic Assoc.) protocol appears to reverse...acid reflux" (n.p.). Though the study had been administered with only sixteen infants, all of them were relieved of acid reflux. The study noted that further research is needed, but with a 100% recovery outcome, it is hard to deny the work of the upper cervical chiropractic. If you are a mother who had a difficult or prolonged labor, and your infant is suffering the symptoms of acid reflux, realize that a pediatric GI specialist will only turn to drugs. It might be wise to first consult with an upper cervical chiropractor.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

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Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

Healing vs. Medicating Your Pain

There's good news! You don't need to live with the pain of Sciatica. You can take medication, but that will only cover the symptoms and won't focus on the core issue. That may help you feel better in the short term, but your pain will come back and more permanent problems may follow.

It's important an upper cervical specialist evaluate your condition, so they can work with you to help you live a healthier life. That means it's also important for you to partner with your NUCCA chiropractor to help you regain full mobility.

We listed some exercises you can do at home, which may help. Though, please note, that it is important that you consult with your NUCCA specialist before you do any of these exercises:

Sciatica Stretches

Lay flat on your back, pull the knee of your injured leg toward your chest with the corresponding hand, and gently pull your ankle toward the opposite thigh with your opposite hand. Hold it for 30 seconds, and then slowly bring it back to a resting position.

Lay flat on your back, cross the injured leg over your other leg, so the sole of the foot of the injured leg is flat on the ground. Pull the knee of the injured leg, which should be bent over the other leg, straight toward you with your hands.

Lay flat on the floor, pull both knees toward your chest, so the injured leg is crossed over your other leg. Place both of your hands behind the knee of the uninjured leg, and pull both legs toward you until the stretch is felt.

All three of these stretches should be held for 30 seconds and then you should return your legs to a resting position, Make sure to do three sets, once a day. This will warm up your muscles and minimize the pain caused by your Sciatica. Stretching also increases your range of motion, lubricates your joints, and delivers nutrients and oxygen to your muscles.

There are other exercises you can do to reduce Sciatica pain. Though, it is important to consult an upper cervical specialist, so they can place you on a plan for your Sciatica.

To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click here.

Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our reviews here.

Dr. Dan Spinato of the San Diego Integrative Spine Center in San Diego, California is a Rancho Penasquitos Chiropractor and an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). Over the past 30 years, Dr. Spinato has helped many people find natural relief in San Diego, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Valley, Poway, Scripps Ranch and Rancho Bernardo. 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 migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, allergy and sinus problems and temporomandibular joint disorders. More information can be found on his website at http://www.powaychiropractor.net.

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