Dystonia – How Upper Cervical Chiropractic can help
What is Dystonia?
Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that causes muscles to contract and spasm involuntarily, leading to repetitive and sometimes painful movements or postures. There are several different types of dystonia, each affecting different parts of the body and caused by different underlying factors.
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specific branch of chiropractic that focuses on the top two vertebrae in the neck, the Atlas and Axis. These vertebrae are responsible for supporting the head and allowing for smooth movement of the neck. Misalignments in these vertebrae can lead to a variety of health issues, including headaches, neck pain, and even dystonia.
Research has shown that upper cervical chiropractic can be an effective care for dystonia. This is because the Atlas and Axis vertebrae are closely connected to the brainstem, which is responsible for controlling muscle tone and movement. When these vertebrae are misaligned, it can lead to disruptions in the signals being sent from the brain to the muscles, resulting in dystonic movements.
One study, conducted in 2014, found that upper cervical chiropractic was effective in reducing symptoms of dystonia in a patient with cervical dystonia, a type of dystonia that affects the neck muscles. After receiving upper cervical chiropractic care, the patient reported a significant reduction in muscle spasms and an increase in range of motion in the neck.
How Can Upper Cervical Chiropractic Help?
It is important to note that while upper cervical chiropractic may be effective in reducing symptoms of dystonia, it is not a cure for the condition. However, it can be a valuable for of care working alongside traditional medical treatments to provide relief and improve overall quality of life for those living with dystonia.
It is also important to note that not every person with dystonia will respond the same to upper cervical chiropractic care, as dystonia can be caused by a variety of underlying factors and may have different presentations in different individuals. As such, it is important to work with a qualified upper cervical chiropractor who can properly assess your neurological condition and determine the best course of care.
In conclusion, upper cervical chiropractic can be an effective care for dystonia by addressing misalignments in the upper cervical spine. Upper cervical chiropractic can help to improve the communication between the brain and the muscles, reducing symptoms and improving overall quality of life for those living with dystonia. If you or someone you know is living with dystonia then please get in touch with us here at Top Chiropractic. We have clinics in London and Birmingham, you can find us here https://www.topchiropractic.co.uk/contact/
Further reading - https://www.ninds.nih.gov/dystonias-fact-sheet
