Multiple Sclerosis and Fluid Flow to the Brain

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system. It attacks the protective outer covering of nerves known as myelin. Signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis depend not only on the amount of nerve damage, but which nerves are affected. Some people with severe MS may lose the ability to walk independently or at all, while others may experience long periods of remission without any new symptoms. Contact our chiropractic clinic in Traverse City for more information.

Starting Signs of MS

Oftentimes symptoms can start with visual disturbances followed by slurred speech, unsteady gait, or electric-shock like sensations stimulated by neck movement. According to the CDC, age, gender, family history, race, and climate are all considered risk factors for the disease. Recent research suggests that fluid-flow dynamics to and from the brain may be responsible for playing a part in neurodegenerative disorders such as multiple sclerosis.

One study published in 2014 in Current Neurovascular Research found that there were alterations of internal jugular vein flow (the vein that drains old blood from the brain) and timing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in MS patients. Another study published in the Journal of Functional Neurology in 2011 looked at 40 MS patients compared to 40 healthy adults. The study found a statistically significant change in CSF flow in the MS group.

How Chiropractic can help

Here at our Traverse City based chiropractic facility, Shift Health Center, we focus on the upper cervical (upper neck) region of the spine. Many people do not realize that this is the crucial site where fluid-flow dynamics to and from the brain take place. The internal jugular vein sits directly in front of the Atlas bone (top bone in the neck) and can be easily affected. CSF must flow directly through the center of the Atlas and up into the skull to nourish and cleanse the brain tissue. In Colorado, a study was conducted on 81 patients diagnosed with MS or Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Upper cervical subluxations (misalignments) were found in all 81 cases. After undergoing upper cervical chiropractic care, 40 of 44 (91%) MS cases and 34 of 37 (92%) PD cases showed symptomatic improvement and no further disease progression during the care period.

As seen on recent MRI studies, even a few degrees of rotation of the Atlas bone can affect fluid flow both in the form of CSF and blood flow. Think of this like a kink in the hose. Normalizing the fluid flow and nerve supply in the upper cervical area allows the body to begin to function optimally. This is done with extreme precision and a very thorough analysis. Our upper cervical chiropractors are able to correct this area without any twisting, cracking, or popping.

If you, a family member, or loved one is suffering with multiple sclerosis, have them contact our team at Shift Health Center today for a complimentary consultation! If you, a family member, or loved one is suffering with multiple sclerosis, have them contact our team at Shift Health Center in Traverse City today for a complimentary consultation!