What is Multiple Sclerosis?
A neurological condition that can affect all age groups, multiple sclerosis (MS), directly interferes with the central nervous system, progressively causing severe nerve damage. Sadly, MS is an incurable condition, however, symptoms can be managed with the help of both conventional and alternative treatments.
Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
No two cases of MS are exactly the same, with the severity of symptoms typically linked to the length of time living with the disease and lifestyle factors.
Some of the most common symptoms of MS include bladder and bowel control issues, generalized tingling or numbness, cognitive difficulties such as memory loss, generalized pain and muscle spasms, visual disturbances, and mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Multiple Sclerosis
The myelin sheath, a protective layer insulating the tips of neurons, allows for electrical signals to travel effectively and efficiently around the body. In MS patients, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, incorrectly identifying them as foreign material. When the myelin sheath disintegrates, the neurons are left exposed, affecting the frequency at which nerve signals can be sent around the body. In turn, this can result in miscommunication between bodily systems and a breakdown of essential processes.
There is growing evidence of a link between MS symptom triggers and dysfunction in the upper cervical spine. If vertebrae in the upper cervical spine (particularly the C1 and C2 vertebrae) are out of alignment, they can pinch the nerves surrounding the brainstem and spinal cord, potentially contributing to the transmission issues created by the loss of myelin. While there is no known cure for MS, treating misalignments in the upper cervical spine can assist in minimizing symptoms of the condition and preventing it from worsening.
How Our Upper Cervical Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis Works
Dr. Gordon Elder, our MS specialist, is an expert in the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique. The Blair chiropractic method employs precise spinal correction techniques to restore natural alignment along the spinal column and restart the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Dr. Elder employs a two-step approach to treating upper cervical misalignments. Firstly, patients will attend a 25–30-minute consultation to establish their history and determine whether a vertebral misalignment could be further aggravating their MS symptoms. Then, Dr. Elder will provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis, giving you the opportunity to ask any questions about your condition. The diagnostic process involves the use of advanced 3-D imaging techniques to pinpoint the exact location of any misalignments.
During your first treatment, Dr. Elder will use the Blair chiropractic adjustment techniques to coax the misaligned vertebrae back into their natural position, removing nerve flow impedances and allowing the body to resume natural function, thereby providing some relief from your MS symptoms.
After the first session, patients do need to return for regular check-ups (for at least 3-5 months) to ensure the adjustment is holding. Most patients average between 10 and 15 appointments with Dr. Elder to achieve long-lasting/permanent results.
If you’re living with MS symptoms, get in touch today to speak with Dr. Elder about the health of your upper cervical spine. Located in Lubbock, Texas, Dr. Elder also services Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.