I have been suffering from cervical instability for going on three years now. And for the first two years no one could diagnose me because they were chasing individual symptoms and didn't want to listen to me when i kept asking "could this be cervical instability?". So for anyone reading the comments looking for help i just want to list the symptoms i had for the first two years and the symptoms i have now in year three after one round of PRP injections. - lightheadedness - dizziness - brain fog - really bad fatigue - off balance - ear fullness - pressure inside my eyes - difficulty swallowing food at times - near crippling anxiety - not chest pains but heart pains - difficulty breathing based on the position of my head and neck. - acid reflux symptoms without the signs off acid reflux. - constantly gassed up without being able to pass it. - back and shoulder pain without neck pain but pain at the base of my head. Now the majority of these symptoms have been fixed since my first round of PRP injections but I am still experiencing tightness of the lungs and the gassing issues and the heart pain issues along with back pain shoulder pain and now lower neck pain. I am better now than I was before but I still have a ways to go. Don't lose hope there is help out there and it will take time even after you find help. But if you keep fighting you will pull through. God bless and i hope this helped someone.
Same symptoms I experienced I am from India and I am suffering from Cervical Instability from 2 years now Doctors here don’t listen to me they just treat symptoms not the cause I am so fucked up now my head feels so heavy I feel like dying I need help I went to like so many different doctors I couldn’t even count I am glad that you are feeling better and hope you will get fine really soon I know how this feels can you help me please like where are you from and Where can I get PRP injections did you had a DMX also? Please reply I really need help
@@NoName-ig6ef sorry I didn't see your comment before now. But I'm not sure how much help I could be to you since you're in India and I am in the USA. But you really need to search for a doctor who specifically deals with cervical instability. Neurologists and orthopedic doctors can't really help. I wish I could be of more help but I don't know personally of any doctors that do PRP injections overseas. Since this reply to your comment is 2 months late I hope you have found some sort of help by now. Don't give up!
Exactly the same symptoms experienced after jaw detached on right side after dental work. My jaw shifting caused the entire alignment of my head, neck, spine etc. to shift out of alignment. Still seeking help...Doctors not very helpful for me...thank you for your knowledge and experience which you shared.
HI Dr. Saunders. As a patient of Dr. Centeno's who's suffer these symptoms first hand, you definitely want to add strange vision changes, anxiety, and heart palpitations to your list. Other than that, you have a very informative video. Keep up the good work and spread the word!
@@drjonsaunders I've been to upper cervical ime hypomobile eds or hsd but he thinks it's my jaw even though it e got no jaw pain nowadays it's shoulders armpits so confused what to do.i took a MRI to see the atlas but not a movement mri
so having occipital neuralgia can lead to heart palpitations? my dr says its from depression/anxiety... the hospital told me i have a problem with my heart tho they could find nothing wrong with my heart. im just sitting here refusing to take any medication at this point and letting what be, be... including death. im sick to death of this after 6+ months and ready for it all to be over already one way or another.
I’m glad I found your channel. I have been dealing with chronic neck pain, intense headaches and many other issues since I was 18. I am now 67 and this year things have gotten so much worse. I have Stage 3 CKD from the daily constant use of OTC pain meds for over 40 years. I have Osteo Arthritis, RA and Fibromyalgia too. I had a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection last month that made everything so much worse. Pain management has passed me off since they can’t help me. Now I’m being sent to a Neurosurgeon after another MRI, last one was done last year. I have worn high heals my entire adult life and X-rays taken through the years show my neck with the normal curve, then straight to curving the opposite way. C2-C3 look like they are disintegrating. I have lost almost 3” of height since my head leans forward so much. I keep telling the doctors that my head feels detached and I can’t look to the right at all. I know it isn’t but I do know that C1 has never been stable. I used to go to the Texas Chiropractic College for treatment because they would show students my neck which they said isn’t something they would normally deal with. I wanted to see an Orthopedic doctor instead of a Neurosurgeon because I feel the issue is my bones, yes my nerves are a mess but I believe the bones need to be looked at first. Hoping when I see my Rheumatologist next she will refer me. I will be armed with your video and lots of questions. Sorry this is so long but I am so discouraged now because I keep getting worse with no answers only more questions and can only take Tylenol which does nothing. Thanks.
Look up Dr. Ross Houser at Caring Medical in Florida. He has a huge youtube presence on cervical instability & treatments that he does at his neck center, saving people's lives daily!!!
I know you are suffering from the way you wrote the letter. The frustration I have from the time of the first injury at 15-16 yrs of age. Now 70 suffered like you. Been told many different things about my injuries. Some dire, Cleveland clinic, rehab and more. The ringer to be sure. Hang on, hang on. You have made it safe to here. Help is out here. Thanks to Drs. on here mostly we all have a good chance of getting medical care we deserve. God bless.
If you feel your C1 has an issue, I highly recommend checking out a reputable upper cervical chiropractor (e.g. NUCCA, atlas orthogonal). General chiropractors won’t help you; upper cervical chiropractors are a separate and highly specialized tradition despite the shared terminology. Unfortunately a lot of MDs are unfamiliar with them and the research backing them. Christopher Centeno’s RUclips channel is also a great resource for CCI.
@mollydemott7214 yes I've been watching his videos I'm in canada and am seriously considering going there abd getting injections I guess? Terrifying but what else can we do?
This explains so much for me. Iv been using the ZAMAT neck stretcher that my wife randomly purchased. After studying the vegas nerve and it’s correlation with the gut, this explains why I’m seeing such great relief. Heart palpitations and chest pains are gone. Over all my anxiety has been going down since using it. When you mentioned past trauma I immediately thought of a diving accident I had 15 or so years ago. It could have easily killed me but thankfully I was able to walk away. I realize now that I should have went to ER,but I decided to tuff it out and clearly that has caused me years of issues. Thanks you kindly for sharing this information!❤
Hi Dr. Saunders, Wow, talk about serendipity! I'm SO glad you came across my feed. I am a ZEBRA! I have a myriad of symptoms. I've been chasing a pain in my RT waistline for almost 3 years now. It's gotten me gallbladder surgery,(pain the same) and a gastroparesis diagnosis.(NOT diabetic). I've had every GI test imaginable. I had a TIA in May 2020. Everything was pretty much closed then due to the pandemic. My neurologist allowed me to rehab at home in my pool. Which i did, and although remarkable, I still suffer some deficit on my left side. I had a disabling car wreck 20+ years ago. Also a couple more, resulting in cracked/broken ribs on my left side, and left clavicle broken. PT has been my saving grace. However, I've been dealing with severe neck pain on my left side for i couldn't tell you how long. No matter how much PT I do for it, no help. Symptoms include: Blood pressure ERRATIC; LIGHTHEADEDNESS (upon standing for sure); Tachycardia; Shortness of breath at minimal exertion; Nausea; Brain fog; FATIGUE; Weakness; Muscle spasms; Clumsiness (didn't even REGISTER this could be a symptom!); Poor balance; Neck pain; Headaches; "Coat hanger pain"-up my neck, radiation to top of shoulders; PROBABLY MORE! I landed on POTS MANY months ago but, my PCP didn't follow up on it. Instead, the gallbladder surgery. I've JUST seen, (ONE visit, another on November 17th) an intergrative DO, that does manipulation. My RT waistline pain is exacerbated after a meal, and ESPECIALLY after a BM. (IBS-C diagnosis, as well!). However, after my visit, (he REALLY hit some spots, and worked on my left neck) i had NO pain after dinner for 3 DAYS! On the fourth, it came roaring back. My question: IS this the correct doctor to deal with cervical instability? Also, should i request if he could order the appropriate x-rays PRIOR to my next visit? He really didn't understand at first WHY I'd been sent to him, although he said we would see what happens. Then, after seeing just how TIGHT i am, he seemed more invested. I REALLY HOPE he is the RIGHT doctor to explore this. Thank you again for shedding so much light on this subject. You don't know what it means to maybe see some light at the end of this tunnel. 🙏😌
Wow! I was never in an accident but was finally correctly diagnosed as a ZEBRA (EDS) in my 60s! My daughter was diagnosed and said I have it! I've had issues forever. We share a LOT of the same issues. Thank you for telling your story. God bless. ❤
Hi Dr. Saunders this is an excellent video explaining cervical instability, thank you. I am 66 year old male and live in Australia. I used to be a super fit road bike rider for 20 years. Unfortunately I was hit by cars twice during this period. I sustained pretty bad whiplash and some fractures such as left transfer processes, pelvic ramus fracture etc. I recovered each time but as of Aug 2022 my old injuries came back to haunt me. Over the last 7 months I have been getting worse even though I have a neurosurgeon and pain management doctor. Without me doing anything the latest MRI show: 1) approximately 2mm retrolisthesis of C4 on C5 and 1.5mm retrolisthesis of the C5 on C6 vertebral body noted 2) C5/6: Spondylolisthesis and uncovering of the intervertebral disc in conjunction with discophytic lipping associated with mild spinal canal narrowing along with moderate left neural foraminal narrowing There are also other nerves under pressure. There is multi level disc bulging and bone spurs. My doctors haven't really explained about how bad this is. All I know is that I feel movement in my neck, creaking sounds and very strong burning, tingling pain moving downwards and spreading. This makes me feel also very stressed and have been getting headaches, ear, jaw, throat pain, sometimes in the left eye, some left sided dizziness. In the last 2 months right ear tinnitus started, Also pain, numbness in shoulders, arms, hands fingers, groin, legs, feet, toes. When I clench my right fist my fingers hurt inside. This is not all happening at one but they come on and off. The pain is minimized when standing, but it aggravates with sitting down and lying down is worse. What chances do I have of improving? Have my doctors just wasted time just giving me pain meds in the last 4 and half months? I have had a couple of steroid injections on the C6 nerve root. Obviously there are other nerves to be tested. How long can I wait with this condition? This has made me very depressed and anxious. I am not able to enjoy life at all, I am always in pain. I have been getting those symptoms you mentioned like pseudo angina and other symptoms. Would surgery solve this? Can this be somehow be rectified to get some quality of life? Thank you very much Dr. Saunders.
Thanks for your questions...you should have your doctor perform cervical stress x-rays or find a provider who will. Then you will know if you have instability and the severity...best wishes.
I’ve given up, literally. My dr acknowledged my occipital neuralgia but for the anxiety/heart palpitations he says it’s all in my head and prescribed me Zoloft… weeks later I have a heart rate of 120-140 sitting down so I go to the hospital and they admit me in for 4 days running tests on my heart and saying all looks fine with the tests but it has to be the heart. They prescribe me metoprolol and send me on my way, it helps calm the palpitations but I tell them my breathing is way off still, they tell me to let the metoprolol saturate in me… now I see this video and basically I’ve decided to quit all meds and let my heart do what it does in hopes it just gives out… I’m so tired of this after 6 months, being told it’s just in my head and being financially drained has left me no other choice
@@drjonsaunders thank you I appreciate you showing more concern for my health than my own healthcare providers but it seems I’m alone in this battle as they’re quick to dismiss me
If your bed has a head rest back with wall bars and is slightly tilted, sleep on a hard foam peanut exactly at c1 at a reasonable height for painless stretching...also in-between (when opened up) tilt your head left and right while pushing into the peanut held in place by the bars ... I'm lucky with my bed having this and highly recommend a bed with such a head rest... When lying on a training mat, put something from cloth on your chin and then a dumbbell...is the larynx (ring) protruded? Do you have a weak tongue? Try sucking in as hard as you can with your mouth closed and tilt your head in all directions...a make shift ruff from a hip stability belt helps, around the chin, take it off before you go red though and take breaks... On a pull up bar tie a fabric belt, now rest the c1 inside facing the bar and push back your head while pressing against the bar with force with your hands...you can do this sideways too, just make sure the belt is short enough/ a thicker rope would do too but could hurt more...
This is what I am dealing with! My symptoms started not too long after correcting my neck hump. Felt great initially after the correction but after 4 weeks I started to experience issues. I also was diagnosed with Lyme disease in March which I know can cause severe osteoarthritis issues in your joints. Was already having issues with my SI joint do to SI joint dysfunction.
I have a reversed neck or military neck ! I’ve had symptoms like anxiety , neck pain , migraines, depersonalization, blurry vision etc going to see a doc soon
I just found out that I have cervical instability yesterday (dentist, hypermobile in general) and I really appreciated the detail of this tutorial. This helps me be prepared to make good choices. thank you. I am looking at platelet lysate injuections and spinal strength conditioning.
I’m diagnosed, had one of those moving x rays ! But I knew it anyway because of all the clicking and sliding, plus nervous system , dizziness , visual issues !!
I've had this while driving. Kind of like a spasm in back neck muscle. Blood tests n heart etc are fine. But I suspect I could have cervical instability. Coz something doesn't feel right. Sometimes I get sensation of falling while standing.
Yes but without the jolt….I have SO many of the symptoms… have fallen down stairs, had multiple whiplashes, and am a massage therapist who’s been looking down for 31 years….I have a reverse curve in my neck….I’m currently using a cervical posture pump to restore the curve and strengthening exercises…
So glad I landed on your site. You explain things so well, easy to comprehend. Can one then presume that cervical instability is that which is called "retrolithesis"?
Dear Dr, thank you for this comprehensive, well organized and easy to understand tutorial. Unfortunately I developed severe tinnitus 3 days following a very forceful cervical manipulation. This was 6 weeks ago. Can you kindly comment on this and treatment strategies. ram pretty fearful of prolotherapy. Is the correct doctor orthopedist or neuro otologist. Thank you
@@drjonsaunders Thank you. I am seeing a neurologist otologist and considering going to Ross Hauser in Fort Myers who claims he can strengthen spine by injecting aura and other ligaments that may have stretched
Hi Dr. Saunders this is the best video that I have seen so far on cervical instability. If I may I would like to know how do physicians, doctors test for cervical instability if not using DMX? Also what does this mean in plain English? Is this indicative of cervical instability? Approximately 2mm retrolisthesis of C4 on C5 and 1.5mm retrolisthesis of the C5 on C6 vertebral body noted. C5/6: Spondylolisthesis and uncovering of the intervertebral disc in conjunction with discophytic lipping associated with mild spinal canal narrowing along with moderate left neural foraminal narrowing seen impinging the exiting left C6 nerve root. Mild right neural foraminal narrowing contacting the exiting right C6 nerve root also noted. Thank you.
Hi Dr Saunders. Do you know if this condition can be linked to cranial neuralgias like occipital neuralgia ? And if yes how could it be linked ? Thanks for this very interesting video
It may be if you have upper cervical instability as it could cause irritation to the occipital nerves...best to see a health care provider with experience in this area. Best wishes.
There is no link for exercises, as each case needs to be monitored - I do have a video on strengthening the deep cervical flexors that you may find helpful. Best wishes.
Thank you SO MUCH for mentioning connective tissue disorders, specifically Ehlers Danlos Syndrome!!! There are so many providers that know absolutely nothing about Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and the many extensive issues it can cause. It is extremely difficult to find adequate treatment with a doctor who knows anything about it. I've had "displaced cervical disks" in previous xrays, which were called incidental and non-significant by the doctor. They were definitely displaced visibly on the xrays more than 3mm. For these types of issues, do you still recommend chiropractic care for individuals with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome? Is it not typically contradicted?
I have patients do well with Ehlers, however, they do not receive the same type of care as someone who doesn't have it...no aggressive treatment techniques including certain exercises.
This was helpful. I have 7 vertebrae(C3thru7 and L4,5) getting increasingly worse. Plus a screw broken completely in half from a previous surgery and on a waiting list literally an entire year long. Meanwhile symptoms are growing in numbers and of course the pain. Medicaid sucks. At least in Louisiana. Desperate for any suggestions.
Thank you doctor for your informations I have constant headache and pain on my face and neck pain but not constant Nothing is helping! Can these syptoms without dizzness and tingling be cci ?
Both heart and lungs. I have obliterated c4 and c5 as well as two surgeries on c 6 and c7. I have all the symptoms of heart failure. But it's the cervical spine that is the culprit. Doctors won't listen. There is just too much money in pushing heart failure rather than neurological issues. I am dying as a result.
Hi Dr. Saunders, I have had chronic debilitating dizziness for months now without breaks in between. It's just gotten worse over time to the point where I can't even preform simple daily tasks that I was able to before. I've been to so many doctors and they did all the tests they could, and still nobody knows what's wrong with me or how to fix it. I've come across your youtube channel recently and watched all your videos on cervicogenic dizziness. It seems like this may be what I'm experiencing, but I'm not sure. Do you think this might be what's causing my dizziness? Or if there is anything you can think of that might help? Thank you Dr. Saunders, finding your videos has given me hope that there might be a solution.
@@drjonsaunders Okay. Thank you anyway. I guess my question is can cervicogenic dizziness be chronic and go on without breaks? Either way, I will try doing your exercises and hope for the best. Thank you.
Dr. Jon Saunders I do exercise after watching your video, I relief with dizziness, headache, neckpain thank you so much, I much have relief feel from cervical. But the upper part of spinal cord Getting hurt from 2 days please suggest me
I started having pain in eyes and ears with numbness and tingling both hands for 8 months I’m starting isometric exer. I think my too soft pillow and computer work/ posture was the cause.
@@adityajaiswal3796 Sorry to hear that...the best thing to do is to get an accurate diagnosis by your doctor...also at the end of this video, there is a link on how to strengthen your neck - best wishes.
Good video, thanks for posting. Is a regular xray sufficient (along with doctor assessment etc) to check for cervical instability or is a CT/MRI required ?
@@aislingof81 Yes regular x-rays work - but they need to be "stress" x-rays where you would look down, look up, bend to both sides with your mouth open, so that both upper and lower cervical instability could be assessed.
Hey doc I was at lifting a dumbbell and after my set I noticed that my neck would make a clicking sound when I turn my head to the right it doesn't click when I turn left I don't get any numbness or tingling but it does cause slight pain if I do it multiple times I want to continue working out but I'm worried it could cause damage any thoughts on what it could be ?
hi doc, thank you for the video! Have you seen patients who complain about their whole body feeling off/ ill/ weak as well? I got diagnosed for rotational instability in my c1/c2 and my vagus nerve and jugular vein are compressed. I have this feeling off and on along with my other symptoms (ear ringing, lightheadedness, dizzy palpitations etc) and i find my neck and head always feel off when it happens. it radiates throughout my entire body. i find the feeling intensifies subtly when breathing in like it’s connected to my diaphragm but i’m not sure. Is this something you’ve heard of before? thank you 🥹
I feel ill throughout my whole body it’s sucks always feels like I’m dying all test come back normal . I was diagnosed with pots recently and vestibular migraines sucks like I can’t and don’t live a normal life . I pray for some relief soon I can’t take it anymore .
Dr. Saunders, is trapezius atrophy/uneven shoulders a common occurrence in Cervical Instability? Also, have you ever had patients who were "certain" that they had Cervical Instability, but the cause of their symptoms ended up being something else?
Great video! I have all those symptoms but don't know where to start, I'm in NYC, what are the clinics that specialize in this? Any advice would be great
Aside from Cervical instability what else would cause a feeling of instability in the neck but with good range of motion? I have had ongoing tension and feelings of weakness and instability after a Physio manipulated my neck 9 months ago and told me to change my posture.
Sorry to hear that...it can be many things, like a cervical kyphosis for example...at this point I'd get some xrays done to offer more insight. Best wishes.
Simply put, it is an injection based treatment that may help heal damaged tissues - in the case of cervical instability - the treatment would be aimed at damaged ligaments to help restore stability to the affected joint(s).
Oftentimes, objective evidence doesn't correlate to pain. For example, severe degenerative disc disease for some will have minimal pain. Thanks for your question.
Hello doctor , I often get neck pain followed by dizziness episode. I work for an IT company and tend to work from home. Often not taking too much care about my posture too. But this dizziness is really very difficult to manage and shatters my level of confidence. Could you please recommend the appropriate ergonomic position to avoid neck pain and a few easy exercises to relieve neck pain and strengthen neck muscles without aggravating my dizziness. Kindly help me out on this. Too many doctors and too many clinical assessments. None of which revealed the actual trouble.
A clinician needs to use multiple measurements, tests, and examination findings and consider the patients symptoms to provide an appropriate diagnosis. Thanks for your comment, best wishes.
I believe my daughter may have this from two whiplash injuries. Her symptoms are constant shoulder spasms and for some reason they get worse when she has spices such as black pepper. Have you ever heard of this?
I have a hangman’s fracture from forceps delivery at birth. And now 57 years old with severe facet joint degeneration, and arthritis. I have been struggling to get any diagnosis to explain all my terrible symptoms. Do you know to get some help in Australia?
It would be unlikely, unless a really aggressive adjustment was done over and over on the same segment, over a long period of time which could result in hypermobility. Please see your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.
Hello Dr, I have c3c4c5 instability, they told me it is surgical, I already did conservative treatment, the rehabilitation did not improve, can you make a video about the improvements of surgery with this injury.
Unfortunately some cases will require surgery. I would get a 2nd opinion prior to surgery however, just to make sure there is no other means of correcting it...best wishes.
Hi i have some problems like this for 2 months now i think,i took a mri now and wait for the result,do you think this will show this problem some how,i am from romania do you know whar doctor to tell about this and help me because here there are not that many doctors that do cervical care,can you respond please?
Hi Dr. Saunders, are you a chiropractor? Trying to find out where to begin. I have an upper cervical specialist. Have dealt with c1 c2 issues and elevated blood pressure. I receive an xray and Nucca adjustment and headaches and pressure normalizes. This continues to happen over time. I think I'm missing the correction. Just not sure who I chose seek out for the diagnosis and correction options you are referring to. Any advice would be appreciated.
Sounds like you are doing some good stuff - ask your chiro to take flexion-extension x-rays of the entire cervical spine to assess for hypermobility or instability - also your chiro should be able to recommend corrective exercises and traction based on your x-rays. Best wishes.
I believe you mean stenosis? It all depends on where it is - neck, low back? And then the severity will dictate what you need to do...please ask your doctor.
I get a lot of clicking and popping in my upper neck. Around C1 and C2 area I tend to self adjust my neck constantly What do you suggest I live in the Connecticut area Thanks I’m also interested in the Digital motion x ray
Hi Doctor, I am from Singapore. I was diagnosed with cervical spondylitis a year ago. I tried the chin tick regularly, and it helps. Does Zumba dance and jumping make it worst?
I have a 2mm slip at C3-C4 as a result of a concussion/whiplash injury in 2019. I have seen multiple neurologists and spine doctors, but no one can figure out what caused the symptoms. The spine doctor I recently saw ordered an X-ray, and we found this slip during flexion motion. However, he said there isn't much we can do, and he does not think I need surgery at this point. My symptoms include dizziness, feeling off balance, headaches, drowsiness, and sometimes triggering high anxiety symptoms and disassociation. I also have neck and shoulder blade pain. My quality of life has dropped significantly, and as a PhD student who recently had a baby, I don't even know if I will graduate one day or how to raise the baby with all these symptoms. I've been in and out of physical therapy, which helps but not significantly. Do you have any tips on recovery? Thank you so much!
This is all me. Haven't worked in years. Can't bend over...everything starts spinning. Dr say there's nothing wrong with me. Can't get any help. I use to be hyper active...now 180 degrees in the other direction. It's a miserable existence.
Hey, I wanted to ask I have been having shoulder pain alot for quite some time and I already have spodylosis in c3 c5 not too bad but a little.Could the shoulder pain be counted as a symptom. The pain goes all from left shoulder to trapezius muscle in neck and at rare times can be felt at the base of skull. I am going to see an ortho next week but this has made me alot nervous 😩
I have watched your videos and read your website. I had a rough chiropractic adjustment 2.5 months ago in the occiput/c1 range that has caused ongoing upper cervical tightness (vice like feeling), lack of side to side rotation and just keeps bothering me. I have been seeing a different chiropractor for adjustments, laser therapy and gentle massage the past 2.5 months. These all help but it just keeps lingering. How long should I pursue conservative treatment options before I seek further care? Do you have a referral for the Southern California area?
Sorry to hear this...I would get some stress x-rays done to see what is happening in your neck - but if you are improving, that is a good sign even if it is slow.
Would you happen to know a good place around Los Angeles that can do a proper assessment? I avoid looking down as much as I can as it feels like the extra stretch causes bizarre symptoms, and makes it feel like the blood flow to my head gets impaired.
I have a grade 1 retrolisthesis of C4 over C5. There is straightening of the normal cervical lordosis as well as degenerative changes between the anterior arch of C1 and the dens. Severe disc space narrowing involves C4-C5. I have been suffering from headaches, vertigo, blurred vision, tinnitus, digestive issues, heart palpitations, fatigue, and a heavy head feeling. Could this retrolisthesis be causing these issues?
It may be contributing to some of, you should be checked for cervical instability...check out my video: Cervical instability: everything you need to know. Best wishes.
If those adjustments are aggressive and to the area of instability, yes that can exacerbate the area. If they are provided to the area of restrictions the adjustments can certainly be helpful. The correction needs to be coupled with the right corrective exercises and/or traction...cervical instability certainly needs professional guidance as it is a complex issue. All the best!
I started having burning pain in muscles between the shoulder blades but didn't make much of it and continues to workout and play golf and sit at my desk. Then a month later it blew up. Lots of burning and pain and neck pain and stiffness. Went to chiro for first time in my life and he said muscle strain and adjusted my neck and shoulders. Since then it's all gotten worse. Mri from different chiro later showed herniated disc at c4 and c5 but my biggest symptom is major major pressure headaches all over my head, around my eyes. Can't lay down cause pressure gets worse so then I've been having trouble sleeping.
@@832Pokemom Oh my, I have the same symptoms as you describe! and pulsatile tinnitus in right ear. I remember I replies to another of your comments on a video about ‘trapped nerves’ because I remember your name and just saw you here again with exactly same symptoms how I describe them. Seems like the research we’ve been doing has lead us here. I await an MRI scan in 2 weeks but now I’m convinced to get a Digital Motion x/ray (DMX) to see if it’s cervical instability is what’s causing all these crazy symptoms I had for the last 6 months. Hope you find relief💚
I had chairmalformation decompression surgery 6 years ago and just noe started having migraines and blurred vision in my right eye i also have terrible neck pain that shoots pain up to the front of my head. I have tingling in my right arm and dizziness . My doctors refuse to believe that its chairi related . They have tried all the iv migraines cocktails and they dont work i am now trying to prove that i have Cranial cervical instability .
When would a cervical instability be suspected? Does certain findings in MRI lead to suspected cervical instability, hence stress x-ray will be recommended by our specialist (neurologist?) ?
I have some atlanto axial instability. Something was causing inflammation in my synovial joint up there. Probably the consequences of not treating a slight subluxation after a fall 8 years ago, or maybe Lyme disease or an autoimmune facyor. Imaging indicates that my case is mild, however, I seem to have pretty severe symptoms. It's like getting small strokes all the time and my arms and legs are involved. My intracranial pressure is poorly regulated so I have hypertension often. None of my senses are spared at this point. It's honestly a horrifying place to be. I can't think of many medical conditions that are scarier than this one.
Hi there..I have the Pentad with further csf leaking and spiking as OSA small airway involved. My neck is always very loose inside and feels like vertebra are floating in water. Brain sag from leak makes smashing pain at back of head and neck pain pressure in front. When I haven't yet leaked like first thing in morning I check my neck and it doesn't hurt. Later in day I can't barely turn my head without pain. I started wearing a hard collar to sleep and actually slept straight through first time in years. Traveling vehicle very painful even with collar on. I am doing very slow careful movement therapy specialized for hypermobility and CCI. No diagnosis..testing not available. Any tips, reassurances, neurologist not on board as needed. GP at a loss.
Arrived to this video due to symptoms pointing to CI. Half are repetitive neck spasms, the other half suggest vagal nerve involvement due to a variety of symptoms like heart palpitations, attending fatigue, sphincter issues, constipation...all in a remitting-relapsing manner. Greatest challenge: uncaring Primary physician.
Dr. What are your thoughts on spinal decompression therapy? I only ask because I have been doing this for about a month now twice a week and it has been game changer.
For lumbar disc bulges, it can be effective for most, but correcting the underlying spinal distortions at the same time is important for overall correction.
I have a lot of the symptoms of this and I have heard previous neck injuries but currently I have symptoms of noise sensitivity and dizziness without any neck pain. So my question is it possible to have this without the presence of neck pain?
@@drjonsaunders Actually just going over your list of symptoms, the only ones I'm currently having is noise sensitivity and dizziness, previous to the neck injuries I had tinnitus so I'm not sure what's causing what...I the reason I am connecting the neck is because when I strain and overuse my neck the symptoms get worse. Apart from when I overwork my neck it's otherwise feeling normal without pain in your opinion do you think I'm looking in the wrong area?
Thank you for this informative video! I have a severe atlas subluxation and did a digital motion xray which showed I have some overhang between c1 and c2. I have tried Nucca and am currently doing AO but don’t feel they are really helping. Do you recommend I continue with upper cervical chiropractic adjustments? It hasn’t even been a month with upper cervical. If it’s not helping, does this mean I need prolotherapy, PRP or PICL? My AO says he believes I have a misalignment in my entire spine. Is that typical of Atlas subluxation? Thanks for any and all input. I love your videos, by the way!
Thanks for your comments...it can sometimes take months to realign and heal...did you have flexion-extention as well as that can be helpful as well...looking at the entire spine is important as well. All the best!
Hi Dr. Saunders. I am 59 with C5 - C7 fused about 9 years ago. After golfing with my son in July I noticed pain on the back of my left head and some numbness running past my left ear across my lower jaw going into my neck. Swallowing also feels odd or numb. Bearing weight started to effect it as well, then some brain fog and sinus / eye pain over the last months. I know my neck is fairly straight above the fusions. I think I may have a ligament issue between C1 and C2 but I have been to 2 different chiropractors, and they don't believe that. All treatments I have had seem to make the symptoms worse. If I do have ligament laxity would chiropractic be helpful or harmful in your opinion?
I would suggest you go back and see your surgeon first, but I would think a flexion/extension xray series would be indicated, so I would make sure the chiropractor you see do stress x-rays before treating you, especially with your surgical history. Best wishes.
Hi Dr Saunders. Have you seen anyone completely bed ridden, almost over night, from cervical instability? What about someone suffering from Lyme Disease, but the actual reason they are sick is not from the Lyme, but from cervical instability? I am suffering from Long Covid and Lyme disease and co-infections and I have been treating them for 2 years but I am not getting any better. I have a doctor saying he thinks It might be cervical instability that is causing everything.
I have had chronic neck pain for so many years I have never got any relief from drs or chiropractors and massage. I have a weird symptom that I am wondering if any one else have experienced this… when I turn my head from side to side it feels like grinding sand in my ears
I’ve been having so much pain just as you described where I can hardly even be up anymore moving around because my head feels so hard to support and also eye floaters. OTC meds aren’t helping. You say a lot of times an underlying condition could be causing it. In the past few years I’ve had 3 autoimmune panels done where my ANA was negative but my double stranded DNA antibody was positive all three times (apparently very unusual). Nothing ever came of it because rheumatologist was looking for swelling and rash and all I had was occasional ankle and hip pain and fatigue. Now I’m wondering if this can be related. Sooooo tired of my neck and shoulders hurting all day long just to support my head 😭
Hey Jon, I coughed really hard 2 years ago and have had a nonstop constant headache that gets stronger and weaker day to day. I also have muscle spasms in my upper back, shoulders, and neck. Neck pain. Could I possibly have upper cervical instability from a very hard cough?
My x ray shows a reversed curvature in the neck and bone spurs, I had chiropractic work and found the massages helped more than the adjustments but they don’t really massage much of the actual neck. The area of my bruising or aching stuff feeling is the two nodules either side the most top discs of the neck or the base of the hairline at the back. I get vertigo, anxiety, the floor feels like it’s bouncing etc. I don’t know where to go since my doctors do nothing, do I see a physio or someone else?
If you have a cervical kyphosis, the only chance of some correction is to see a corrective chiropractor...feeling temporary relief doesn't constitute correction....correction takes time and persistence...you got this! Best wishes. :)
Hi Dr Saunders! Need your help and advice on this X-ray report "X-RAY CERVICAL SPINE AP & LAT VIEWS There is straightening of cervical curvature with osteophytosis at multiple levels & reduced C5/C6 disc space. There is no evidence of bony trauma or other bony lesion. IMPRESSION :- CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS. Will appreciate your guidance with rhe link of your published video on required exercise for the above problem. Thanks
I have an appointment with the chiropractor tomorrow but I have cervical neck instability symptoms and don't get my digital motion x ray until Friday.....is it safe to see a chiropractor and if they do an adjustment without knowing forsure? Can they further damage anything?
So I went to an appointment with my physiatrist and she said my vertebra were moving when I move in my x-rays but she made it seem like it was ok. I told my PT and they freaked out and told me I need to see a neuro or a surgeon. I have a lot of those symptoms. My PCP keeps telling me I have anxiety (not really anything wrong with me). Everyone warns you away from chiropractors. This is a nightmare. I don't really know what to do. I am currently in PT for my neck and looking for a neurologist or ortho surgeon consult.
Sorry to hear all of this...please find a corrective care chiropractor who can take "stress x-rays" in flexion/extension and lateral fleslxion to determine if you have any cervical instability. This will help determine the cause of your problems. Best wishes.
@@drjonsaunders Physiatrist did flexion and extension xrays. I will try to find a corrective care chiropractor- thank you for the advice. I have spent a year in PT because I trashed my lumbar taking care of my mom- bulging discs l2-l4 and a ruptured one at l4-l5. I was so broken I leaned to the left and couldn't really walk. After a year in PT, I was doing better until my neck started to hurt. I can at least walk in the pool now, but my neck hurts so bad I get headaches and have a hard time keeping my head up. Your video probably saved me because I was trying to figure out what was wrong with me and I saw your video. I think it was in the back of my mind when I alerted my PT- I knew those xrays were not ok.
I’m in ontario too and I’m currently travelling to Caring Medical in fort myers every month for treatment. I recommend looking into Dr Hauser. It’s so expensive, i know, but my parents didn’t want to risk going to just anyone because it’s such a sensitive area. wishing you the best
I am pretty sure I have upper cervical instability for at least 7 years. I have been to an atlas chiropractor and my atlas was off 13%. My treatment only lasted less than a week so I am contemplating going for stem cell therapy in Broomfield Colorado. Do you have any idea if that would be useful. It’s quite expensive.
When I lay flat on my back and turn my head to the right and then push my head into the bed, there is lateral shift movement high up in my spine, guessing c1-2? I also hear crunching and bones clicking together. When I turn to the left and put pressure on my head, no shifting, very strong. Could this be a notable ligaments? I mentioned this to my chiro, he didn’t examine further, just adjusted my neck. This neck issue has been going on about one year. Also stiff neck and periodic right hand stabbing pain, especially when looking over left shoulder and various neck movements. Also mentioned bowel bladder weakness in the past, head tremors are better since last adjustment. Should I see someone who will take X-rays?
Dr . Saunders, Can cervical instability along with neck osteoarthritis and chronic neck pain that causes migraines be the sole cause of dysautonomia (but not the POTS) version? Can having bad cases of COVID twice cause it or at least make it much worse? I’d appreciate any information.
I have been suffering from cervical instability for going on three years now. And for the first two years no one could diagnose me because they were chasing individual symptoms and didn't want to listen to me when i kept asking "could this be cervical instability?". So for anyone reading the comments looking for help i just want to list the symptoms i had for the first two years and the symptoms i have now in year three after one round of PRP injections.
- lightheadedness
- dizziness
- brain fog
- really bad fatigue
- off balance
- ear fullness
- pressure inside my eyes
- difficulty swallowing food at times
- near crippling anxiety
- not chest pains but heart pains
- difficulty breathing based on the position of my head and neck.
- acid reflux symptoms without the signs off acid reflux.
- constantly gassed up without being able to pass it.
- back and shoulder pain without neck pain but pain at the base of my head.
Now the majority of these symptoms have been fixed since my first round of PRP injections but I am still experiencing tightness of the lungs and the gassing issues and the heart pain issues along with back pain shoulder pain and now lower neck pain. I am better now than I was before but I still have a ways to go. Don't lose hope there is help out there and it will take time even after you find help. But if you keep fighting you will pull through. God bless and i hope this helped someone.
Thanks for sharing...glad you are beginning to feel better.
Same symptoms I experienced I am from India and I am suffering from Cervical Instability from 2 years now Doctors here don’t listen to me they just treat symptoms not the cause I am so fucked up now my head feels so heavy I feel like dying I need help I went to like so many different doctors I couldn’t even count I am glad that you are feeling better and hope you will get fine really soon I know how this feels can you help me please like where are you from and Where can I get PRP injections did you had a DMX also? Please reply I really need help
@@NoName-ig6ef sorry I didn't see your comment before now. But I'm not sure how much help I could be to you since you're in India and I am in the USA. But you really need to search for a doctor who specifically deals with cervical instability. Neurologists and orthopedic doctors can't really help. I wish I could be of more help but I don't know personally of any doctors that do PRP injections overseas. Since this reply to your comment is 2 months late I hope you have found some sort of help by now. Don't give up!
@@NoName-ig6efhow are you doing now
Exactly the same symptoms experienced after jaw detached on right side after dental work. My jaw shifting caused the entire alignment of my head, neck, spine etc. to shift out of alignment. Still seeking help...Doctors not very helpful for me...thank you for your knowledge and experience which you shared.
HI Dr. Saunders. As a patient of Dr. Centeno's who's suffer these symptoms first hand, you definitely want to add strange vision changes, anxiety, and heart palpitations to your list. Other than that, you have a very informative video. Keep up the good work and spread the word!
100% There are so many more symptoms than I listed, just didn't want to bore viewers too much! Thanks for your comment! :)
@@drjonsaunders I've been to upper cervical ime hypomobile eds or hsd but he thinks it's my jaw even though it e got no jaw pain nowadays it's shoulders armpits so confused what to do.i took a MRI to see the atlas but not a movement mri
Strange vision changes I have this! Like a sort of dpdr or smth. I hope this PT I’ll be going to will solve my cervical instability
so having occipital neuralgia can lead to heart palpitations? my dr says its from depression/anxiety... the hospital told me i have a problem with my heart tho they could find nothing wrong with my heart. im just sitting here refusing to take any medication at this point and letting what be, be... including death. im sick to death of this after 6+ months and ready for it all to be over already one way or another.
Vagus Nerve, watch Dr Hauser
Blood pressure swings.
I’m glad I found your channel. I have been dealing with chronic neck pain, intense headaches and many other issues since I was 18. I am now 67 and this year things have gotten so much worse. I have Stage 3 CKD from the daily constant use of OTC pain meds for over 40 years. I have Osteo Arthritis, RA and Fibromyalgia too. I had a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection last month that made everything so much worse. Pain management has passed me off since they can’t help me. Now I’m being sent to a Neurosurgeon after another MRI, last one was done last year. I have worn high heals my entire adult life and X-rays taken through the years show my neck with the normal curve, then straight to curving the opposite way. C2-C3 look like they are disintegrating. I have lost almost 3” of height since my head leans forward so much. I keep telling the doctors that my head feels detached and I can’t look to the right at all. I know it isn’t but I do know that C1 has never been stable. I used to go to the Texas Chiropractic College for treatment because they would show students my neck which they said isn’t something they would normally deal with. I wanted to see an Orthopedic doctor instead of a Neurosurgeon because I feel the issue is my bones, yes my nerves are a mess but I believe the bones need to be looked at first. Hoping when I see my Rheumatologist next she will refer me. I will be armed with your video and lots of questions. Sorry this is so long but I am so discouraged now because I keep getting worse with no answers only more questions and can only take Tylenol which does nothing. Thanks.
I'm glad you found my video helpful, and you should definitely go prepared to get your questions answered. Best wishes.
Look up Dr. Ross Houser at Caring Medical in Florida. He has a huge youtube presence on cervical instability & treatments that he does at his neck center, saving people's lives daily!!!
I know you are suffering from the way you wrote the letter. The frustration I have from the time of the first injury at 15-16 yrs of age. Now 70 suffered like you. Been told many different things about my injuries. Some dire, Cleveland clinic, rehab and more. The ringer to be sure. Hang on, hang on. You have made it safe to here. Help is out here. Thanks to Drs. on here mostly we all have a good chance of getting medical care we deserve. God bless.
If you feel your C1 has an issue, I highly recommend checking out a reputable upper cervical chiropractor (e.g. NUCCA, atlas orthogonal). General chiropractors won’t help you; upper cervical chiropractors are a separate and highly specialized tradition despite the shared terminology. Unfortunately a lot of MDs are unfamiliar with them and the research backing them.
Christopher Centeno’s RUclips channel is also a great resource for CCI.
@mollydemott7214 yes I've been watching his videos I'm in canada and am seriously considering going there abd getting injections I guess? Terrifying but what else can we do?
This explains so much for me. Iv been using the ZAMAT neck stretcher that my wife randomly purchased. After studying the vegas nerve and it’s correlation with the gut, this explains why I’m seeing such great relief. Heart palpitations and chest pains are gone. Over all my anxiety has been going down since using it. When you mentioned past trauma I immediately thought of a diving accident I had 15 or so years ago. It could have easily killed me but thankfully I was able to walk away. I realize now that I should have went to ER,but I decided to tuff it out and clearly that has caused me years of issues. Thanks you kindly for sharing this information!❤
Glad you found it helpful!
Is there any way I can in touch did you have pots syndrome
Hi, can you give me the link to the zamat neck stretcher please? Thanks
Hi Dr. Saunders, Wow, talk about serendipity! I'm SO glad you came across my feed. I am a ZEBRA! I have a myriad of symptoms. I've been chasing a pain in my RT waistline for almost 3 years now. It's gotten me gallbladder surgery,(pain the same) and a gastroparesis diagnosis.(NOT diabetic). I've had every GI test imaginable. I had a TIA in May 2020. Everything was pretty much closed then due to the pandemic. My neurologist allowed me to rehab at home in my pool. Which i did, and although remarkable, I still suffer some deficit on my left side. I had a disabling car wreck 20+ years ago. Also a couple more, resulting in cracked/broken ribs on my left side, and left clavicle broken. PT has been my saving grace. However, I've been dealing with severe neck pain on my left side for i couldn't tell you how long. No matter how much PT I do for it, no help. Symptoms include: Blood pressure ERRATIC; LIGHTHEADEDNESS (upon standing for sure); Tachycardia; Shortness of breath at minimal exertion; Nausea; Brain fog; FATIGUE; Weakness; Muscle spasms; Clumsiness (didn't even REGISTER this could be a symptom!); Poor balance; Neck pain; Headaches; "Coat hanger pain"-up my neck, radiation to top of shoulders; PROBABLY MORE! I landed on POTS MANY months ago but, my PCP didn't follow up on it. Instead, the gallbladder surgery. I've JUST seen, (ONE visit, another on November 17th) an intergrative DO, that does manipulation. My RT waistline pain is exacerbated after a meal, and ESPECIALLY after a BM. (IBS-C diagnosis, as well!). However, after my visit, (he REALLY hit some spots, and worked on my left neck) i had NO pain after dinner for 3 DAYS! On the fourth, it came roaring back. My question: IS this the correct doctor to deal with cervical instability? Also, should i request if he could order the appropriate x-rays PRIOR to my next visit? He really didn't understand at first WHY I'd been sent to him, although he said we would see what happens. Then, after seeing just how TIGHT i am, he seemed more invested. I REALLY HOPE he is the RIGHT doctor to explore this. Thank you again for shedding so much light on this subject. You don't know what it means to maybe see some light at the end of this tunnel. 🙏😌
Anyone who has experience with neck problems, like an experienced chiropractor would be a good place to start...best wishes!
Wow! I was never in an accident but was finally correctly diagnosed as a ZEBRA (EDS) in my 60s! My daughter was diagnosed and said I have it! I've had issues forever. We share a LOT of the same issues. Thank you for telling your story. God bless. ❤
Hi Dr. Saunders this is an excellent video explaining cervical instability, thank you. I am 66 year old male and live in Australia. I used to be a super fit road bike rider for 20 years. Unfortunately I was hit by cars twice during this period. I sustained pretty bad whiplash and some fractures such as left transfer processes, pelvic ramus fracture etc. I recovered each time but as of Aug 2022 my old injuries came back to haunt me. Over the last 7 months I have been getting worse even though I have a neurosurgeon and pain management doctor. Without me doing anything the latest MRI show:
1) approximately 2mm retrolisthesis of C4 on C5 and 1.5mm retrolisthesis of the C5 on C6 vertebral body noted
2) C5/6: Spondylolisthesis and uncovering of the intervertebral disc in conjunction with discophytic lipping associated with mild spinal canal narrowing along with moderate left neural foraminal narrowing
There are also other nerves under pressure. There is multi level disc bulging and bone spurs. My doctors haven't really explained about how bad this is.
All I know is that I feel movement in my neck, creaking sounds and very strong burning, tingling pain moving downwards and spreading. This makes me feel also very stressed and have been getting headaches, ear, jaw, throat pain, sometimes in the left eye, some left sided dizziness. In the last 2 months right ear tinnitus started, Also pain, numbness in shoulders, arms, hands fingers, groin, legs, feet, toes. When I clench my right fist my fingers hurt inside. This is not all happening at one but they come on and off. The pain is minimized when standing, but it aggravates with sitting down and lying down is worse.
What chances do I have of improving? Have my doctors just wasted time just giving me pain meds in the last 4 and half months? I have had a couple of steroid injections on the C6 nerve root.
Obviously there are other nerves to be tested. How long can I wait with this condition?
This has made me very depressed and anxious. I am not able to enjoy life at all, I am always in pain. I have been getting those symptoms you mentioned like pseudo angina and other symptoms.
Would surgery solve this? Can this be somehow be rectified to get some quality of life?
Thank you very much Dr. Saunders.
Thanks for your questions...you should have your doctor perform cervical stress x-rays or find a provider who will. Then you will know if you have instability and the severity...best wishes.
I’ve given up, literally. My dr acknowledged my occipital neuralgia but for the anxiety/heart palpitations he says it’s all in my head and prescribed me Zoloft… weeks later I have a heart rate of 120-140 sitting down so I go to the hospital and they admit me in for 4 days running tests on my heart and saying all looks fine with the tests but it has to be the heart. They prescribe me metoprolol and send me on my way, it helps calm the palpitations but I tell them my breathing is way off still, they tell me to let the metoprolol saturate in me… now I see this video and basically I’ve decided to quit all meds and let my heart do what it does in hopes it just gives out… I’m so tired of this after 6 months, being told it’s just in my head and being financially drained has left me no other choice
I'm sorry to hear this, please speak with your doctor and ask for a second opinion. Best.
@@drjonsaunders thank you I appreciate you showing more concern for my health than my own healthcare providers but it seems I’m alone in this battle as they’re quick to dismiss me
If your bed has a head rest back with wall bars and is slightly tilted, sleep on a hard foam peanut exactly at c1 at a reasonable height for painless stretching...also in-between (when opened up) tilt your head left and right while pushing into the peanut held in place by the bars ... I'm lucky with my bed having this and highly recommend a bed with such a head rest... When lying on a training mat, put something from cloth on your chin and then a dumbbell...is the larynx (ring) protruded? Do you have a weak tongue? Try sucking in as hard as you can with your mouth closed and tilt your head in all directions...a make shift ruff from a hip stability belt helps, around the chin, take it off before you go red though and take breaks... On a pull up bar tie a fabric belt, now rest the c1 inside facing the bar and push back your head while pressing against the bar with force with your hands...you can do this sideways too, just make sure the belt is short enough/ a thicker rope would do too but could hurt more...
Try bicycling or some safe cardio for several minutes. Damndest thing, this and 200 mg metop. Has been working for me.
Wow. Sounds like you have severe cci and your doc gives you antidepressants. Just wow. Modern doctors don’t know shit
This is what I am dealing with! My symptoms started not too long after correcting my neck hump. Felt great initially after the correction but after 4 weeks I started to experience issues. I also was diagnosed with Lyme disease in March which I know can cause severe osteoarthritis issues in your joints. Was already having issues with my SI joint do to SI joint dysfunction.
Sorry to hear, Lyme can cause many similar symptoms. Best wishes.
I have a reversed neck or military neck ! I’ve had symptoms like anxiety , neck pain , migraines, depersonalization, blurry vision etc going to see a doc soon
Best wishes when you see your doctor.
Are you hypomobility found out I have àspergers now all linked
I have the same Have you seen a doc yet ?
Thank you for this video. Severe nausea all the time.
Glad it was helpful!
I just found out that I have cervical instability yesterday (dentist, hypermobile in general) and I really appreciated the detail of this tutorial. This helps me be prepared to make good choices. thank you. I am looking at platelet lysate injuections and spinal strength conditioning.
Glad I could help!
Very enlightening and helpful, thanks dr. Jon
My pleasure!
I’m diagnosed, had one of those moving x rays ! But I knew it anyway because of all the clicking and sliding, plus nervous system
, dizziness , visual issues !!
I hope you feel better soon! Be patient with your healing!
Does anybody else feel really shaky n get heart beat in head that makes you jolt
Good question for others.
I've had this while driving. Kind of like a spasm in back neck muscle. Blood tests n heart etc are fine. But I suspect I could have cervical instability. Coz something doesn't feel right. Sometimes I get sensation of falling while standing.
Yes but without the jolt….I have SO many of the symptoms… have fallen down stairs, had multiple whiplashes, and am a massage therapist who’s been looking down for 31 years….I have a reverse curve in my neck….I’m currently using a cervical posture pump to restore the curve and strengthening exercises…
Yes I get it all the time when I’m laying down on my and I’m really relaxed.
@drjonsaunders I forget breating...I don't get a breathing sign anymore..could it be cervical instability ???
good afternoon doc,please give me some advice or ideas for impression : loss of usual cervical lordosis..
Please check out the video on my channel on how to fix a cervical curve.
So glad I landed on your site. You explain things so well, easy to comprehend. Can one then presume that cervical instability is that which is called "retrolithesis"?
Mine gives me extreme migraines and pains in the ear canals, among other symptoms you already mentioned. I have a connective tissue disorder!
:( Sorry to hear this.
Very informative
Glad you think so!
Dear Dr Saunders please make a video on link between pots syndrome and neck what is the relationship
Will add it to my list.
Dear Dr, thank you for this comprehensive, well organized and easy to understand tutorial. Unfortunately I developed severe tinnitus 3 days following a very forceful cervical manipulation. This was 6 weeks ago. Can you kindly comment on this and treatment strategies. ram pretty fearful of prolotherapy. Is the correct doctor orthopedist or neuro otologist. Thank you
It's hard for me to say without examining you. The best thing is to find someone who has experience with cervical instability.
@@drjonsaunders Thank you. I am seeing a neurologist otologist and considering going to Ross Hauser in Fort Myers who claims he can strengthen spine by injecting aura and other ligaments that may have stretched
Hi Dr. Saunders this is the best video that I have seen so far on cervical instability.
If I may I would like to know how do physicians, doctors test for cervical instability if not using DMX?
Also what does this mean in plain English? Is this indicative of cervical instability?
Approximately 2mm retrolisthesis of C4 on C5 and 1.5mm retrolisthesis
of the C5 on C6 vertebral body noted.
C5/6: Spondylolisthesis and uncovering of the intervertebral disc in
conjunction with discophytic lipping associated with mild spinal canal
narrowing along with moderate left neural foraminal narrowing seen
impinging the exiting left C6 nerve root. Mild right neural foraminal
narrowing contacting the exiting right C6 nerve root also noted.
Thank you.
With those findings, I would want to see a flexion/extension stress xray to check for cervical instability. Best wishes.
Hi Dr Saunders. Do you know if this condition can be linked to cranial neuralgias like occipital neuralgia ? And if yes how could it be linked ? Thanks for this very interesting video
It may be if you have upper cervical instability as it could cause irritation to the occipital nerves...best to see a health care provider with experience in this area. Best wishes.
This is helpful, thank you. Where is the link for the video with the exercises please?
There is no link for exercises, as each case needs to be monitored - I do have a video on strengthening the deep cervical flexors that you may find helpful. Best wishes.
@drjonsaunders ah OK- thank you. Also I will need to find a chiropractor who knows about this - thanks for the info.
Thank you SO MUCH for mentioning connective tissue disorders, specifically Ehlers Danlos Syndrome!!! There are so many providers that know absolutely nothing about Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and the many extensive issues it can cause. It is extremely difficult to find adequate treatment with a doctor who knows anything about it. I've had "displaced cervical disks" in previous xrays, which were called incidental and non-significant by the doctor. They were definitely displaced visibly on the xrays more than 3mm.
For these types of issues, do you still recommend chiropractic care for individuals with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome? Is it not typically contradicted?
I have patients do well with Ehlers, however, they do not receive the same type of care as someone who doesn't have it...no aggressive treatment techniques including certain exercises.
@@drjonsaunders but how do they stop in place with hypomobility
I like this guy
Thank you. :)
This was helpful. I have 7 vertebrae(C3thru7 and L4,5) getting increasingly worse. Plus a screw broken completely in half from a previous surgery and on a waiting list literally an entire year long. Meanwhile symptoms are growing in numbers and of course the pain. Medicaid sucks. At least in Louisiana. Desperate for any suggestions.
I'm really sorry to hear that - for your case, it's best to speak to your surgeon. Best wishes.
Thank you doctor for your informations
I have constant headache and pain on my face and neck pain but not constant
Nothing is helping!
Can these syptoms without dizzness and tingling be cci ?
It could, but you'd need specific testing to rule it out as a possibility...best wishes.
Dear doctor,
Can cervical spondylosis, narrowness between C5 and C6 with osteophytes cause heart arrhythmia/ palpitations?
If you have cervical instability along with cervical spondylosis, yes it can.
@@drjonsaunders thank you doctor!
God bless you!
Both heart and lungs. I have obliterated c4 and c5 as well as two surgeries on c 6 and c7. I have all the symptoms of heart failure. But it's the cervical spine that is the culprit. Doctors won't listen. There is just too much money in pushing heart failure rather than neurological issues. I am dying as a result.
Hi Dr. Saunders, I have had chronic debilitating dizziness for months now without breaks in between. It's just gotten worse over time to the point where I can't even preform simple daily tasks that I was able to before. I've been to so many doctors and they did all the tests they could, and still nobody knows what's wrong with me or how to fix it. I've come across your youtube channel recently and watched all your videos on cervicogenic dizziness. It seems like this may be what I'm experiencing, but I'm not sure. Do you think this might be what's causing my dizziness? Or if there is anything you can think of that might help? Thank you Dr. Saunders, finding your videos has given me hope that there might be a solution.
It's hard for me to say without examining you...sorry I can't offer you more information.
@@drjonsaunders Okay. Thank you anyway. I guess my question is can cervicogenic dizziness be chronic and go on without breaks? Either way, I will try doing your exercises and hope for the best. Thank you.
I have cervical instability and it’s caused vestibular and vagus nerve issues including intense vertigo
I would get a good chiropractor to do these types of X-rays on this video to determine if you have cervical instability
Thanks so much! Which doctor do I need to see to get diagnosed ? Who specializes in this ?
Usually a corrective chiropractor who does "stress" x-rays.
Dr. Jon Saunders I do exercise after watching your video, I relief with dizziness, headache, neckpain thank you so much, I much have relief feel from cervical. But the upper part of spinal cord
Getting hurt from 2 days please suggest me
Glad to hear you found video helpful!
Hey doc, can you tell me what kind of doctor should see if I have those symptoms?
Usually a good chiropractor who has experience with cervical spine conditions is a good place to start.
I started having pain in eyes and ears with numbness and tingling both hands for 8 months I’m starting isometric exer. I think my too soft pillow and computer work/ posture was the cause.
Best of luck to a quick recovery!
Which doctor’s specialty can help me with that can of problem so I can search it in my country
A corrective chiropractor would be a good place to start. Best wishes.
Do u know of an experienced chiro for cervical & a winged scapula /long thoracic nerve injuries near Greenville or Clemson South Carolina? Thank you!!
Unfortunately I do not. :(
Have a question? Please ask! 🔔 SUBSCRIBE HERE: ruclips.net/user/ChiropracticonEagleNewmarket
My cervical xray shows straight...I feel unstable in walking and feel like dizziness...Please suggest me some exercises for this type of vertigo....
@@adityajaiswal3796 Sorry to hear that...the best thing to do is to get an accurate diagnosis by your doctor...also at the end of this video, there is a link on how to strengthen your neck - best wishes.
Good video, thanks for posting. Is a regular xray sufficient (along with doctor assessment etc) to check for cervical instability or is a CT/MRI required ?
@@aislingof81 Yes regular x-rays work - but they need to be "stress" x-rays where you would look down, look up, bend to both sides with your mouth open, so that both upper and lower cervical instability could be assessed.
Hey doc I was at lifting a dumbbell and after my set I noticed that my neck would make a clicking sound when I turn my head to the right it doesn't click when I turn left
I don't get any numbness or tingling but it does cause slight pain if I do it multiple times I want to continue working out but I'm worried it could cause damage any thoughts on what it could be ?
is it possible to have CCI with little/situational neck pain but many of the other possible symptoms?
Yes.
Hi Dr. Jon, Any Chance you may have a directory or best way to find a chiropractor in my area for cervical instability and spondylosis
Best to do an online search and ask around for a referral.
hi doc, thank you for the video!
Have you seen patients who complain about their whole body feeling off/ ill/ weak as well? I got diagnosed for rotational instability in my c1/c2 and my vagus nerve and jugular vein are compressed. I have this feeling off and on along with my other symptoms (ear ringing, lightheadedness, dizzy palpitations etc) and i find my neck and head always feel off when it happens. it radiates throughout my entire body. i find the feeling intensifies subtly when breathing in like it’s connected to my diaphragm but i’m not sure.
Is this something you’ve heard of before? thank you 🥹
Yes, so many "strange" symptoms can result from cervical instability.
I feel ill throughout my whole body it’s sucks always feels like I’m dying all test come back normal . I was diagnosed with pots recently and vestibular migraines sucks like I can’t and don’t live a normal life . I pray for some relief soon I can’t take it anymore .
Dr. Saunders, is trapezius atrophy/uneven shoulders a common occurrence in Cervical Instability? Also, have you ever had patients who were "certain" that they had Cervical Instability, but the cause of their symptoms ended up being something else?
Yes I have patients who thought they had it based on their symptoms, but testing revealed another cause. Best wishes.
Hello, I have a flattend and atrophied upper trapezius as well.
My deltoid and biceps are weak, too.
What about you?
Great video! I have all those symptoms but don't know where to start, I'm in NYC, what are the clinics that specialize in this? Any advice would be great
Definitely start with a "corrective care" chiropractor for a conservative option first. Best wishes.
Hi, in Canada 🇨🇦 do you know where one could get help or diagnoses ? Thanks your videos have helped me with various issues :)
Typically you would see a corrective care chiropractor who will take "stress" x-rays - flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. Best of luck.
Tooo technical
What are symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment?
I discuss of your questions in the video...thanks for watching.
Cervical neck strengthening
They like to hide that fact
Aside from Cervical instability what else would cause a feeling of instability in the neck but with good range of motion? I have had ongoing tension and feelings of weakness and instability after a Physio manipulated my neck 9 months ago and told me to change my posture.
Sorry to hear that...it can be many things, like a cervical kyphosis for example...at this point I'd get some xrays done to offer more insight. Best wishes.
Can you explain what Prolotherapy is and how it can help repair the cervical instability? Thank you.
Simply put, it is an injection based treatment that may help heal damaged tissues - in the case of cervical instability - the treatment would be aimed at damaged ligaments to help restore stability to the affected joint(s).
Would like to hear about the objective evidence and how it correlates with Pain. “Objective”
Oftentimes, objective evidence doesn't correlate to pain. For example, severe degenerative disc disease for some will have minimal pain. Thanks for your question.
Hello doctor , I often get neck pain followed by dizziness episode. I work for an IT company and tend to work from home. Often not taking too much care about my posture too. But this dizziness is really very difficult to manage and shatters my level of confidence. Could you please recommend the appropriate ergonomic position to avoid neck pain and a few easy exercises to relieve neck pain and strengthen neck muscles without aggravating my dizziness. Kindly help me out on this. Too many doctors and too many clinical assessments. None of which revealed the actual trouble.
ruclips.net/video/u40IfUBDumI/видео.html AND ruclips.net/video/Pwzr3HxDhuo/видео.html
@@drjonsaunders thanks a lot. I shall follow this and get back.
Rule of Spence has been disproven recently as being clinically significant. Thoughts on that?
A clinician needs to use multiple measurements, tests, and examination findings and consider the patients symptoms to provide an appropriate diagnosis. Thanks for your comment, best wishes.
I believe my daughter may have this from two whiplash injuries. Her symptoms are constant shoulder spasms and for some reason they get worse when she has spices such as black pepper. Have you ever heard of this?
Hmm, unusual to be honest. Best to get her checked out. All the best.
I have a hangman’s fracture from forceps delivery at birth. And now 57 years old with severe facet joint degeneration, and arthritis. I have been struggling to get any diagnosis to explain all my terrible symptoms. Do you know to get some help in Australia?
Sorry to hear this, unfortunately I do not know anyone specifically, but I'm sure there are good ones available...best of luck.
Can a chiropractor neck adjustment cause this? Rotational adjustment. I’ve been having symptoms ever since. Especially difficulty swallowing foods.
It would be unlikely, unless a really aggressive adjustment was done over and over on the same segment, over a long period of time which could result in hypermobility. Please see your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.
Hello Dr, I have c3c4c5 instability, they told me it is surgical, I already did conservative treatment, the rehabilitation did not improve, can you make a video about the improvements of surgery with this injury.
Unfortunately some cases will require surgery. I would get a 2nd opinion prior to surgery however, just to make sure there is no other means of correcting it...best wishes.
Where are you located? I feel like you are describing me. Does this affect the obstacle nerves?
www.chirofirst.ca
Hi i have some problems like this for 2 months now i think,i took a mri now and wait for the result,do you think this will show this problem some how,i am from romania do you know whar doctor to tell about this and help me because here there are not that many doctors that do cervical care,can you respond please?
Without seeing your MRI results it is impossible for me to say. Take care.
@@drjonsaunders can I send you somewhere i have some photos of it
Doctor, can I have cervical instability just because of bad posture? Anterior neck and head. Thank you from Brazil!
I hope you find my video helpful. Best wishes.
کلیپ درمان تینیتوس را تکرار و با زیرنویس فارسی بزارید..
من سعی خواهم کرد، متشکرم!
Hi Dr. Saunders, are you a chiropractor? Trying to find out where to begin. I have an upper cervical specialist. Have dealt with c1 c2 issues and elevated blood pressure. I receive an xray and Nucca adjustment and headaches and pressure normalizes. This continues to happen over time. I think I'm missing the correction. Just not sure who I chose seek out for the diagnosis and correction options you are referring to. Any advice would be appreciated.
Sounds like you are doing some good stuff - ask your chiro to take flexion-extension x-rays of the entire cervical spine to assess for hypermobility or instability - also your chiro should be able to recommend corrective exercises and traction based on your x-rays. Best wishes.
Thank you. Are these the motion x-rays you are talking about? I want to be sure I'm asking for the correct assessment. Again, thank you.
Hi Dr Saunders my spinal column narrowing. The diagnosis is strenuous. Have balancing and walking problems. No pain anywhere. Please advise
I believe you mean stenosis? It all depends on where it is - neck, low back? And then the severity will dictate what you need to do...please ask your doctor.
Hey dr which one is better prp prolothreapy
It depends on many things, but also that question hasn't been adequately answered in the research. So it some cases it is a guess?
I get a lot of clicking and popping in my upper neck. Around C1 and C2 area
I tend to self adjust my neck constantly
What do you suggest
I live in the Connecticut area
Thanks
I’m also interested in the Digital motion x ray
Definitely stop self adjusting...go see a corrective chiropractor who does xrays who can check for instability. Best wishes.
Hi Doctor, I am from Singapore. I was diagnosed with cervical spondylitis a year ago. I tried the chin tick regularly, and it helps. Does Zumba dance and jumping make it worst?
You will have to see how you feel after your exercises...this video may also be helpful: ruclips.net/video/r0xP_5B9z8c/видео.html
I have a 2mm slip at C3-C4 as a result of a concussion/whiplash injury in 2019. I have seen multiple neurologists and spine doctors, but no one can figure out what caused the symptoms. The spine doctor I recently saw ordered an X-ray, and we found this slip during flexion motion. However, he said there isn't much we can do, and he does not think I need surgery at this point.
My symptoms include dizziness, feeling off balance, headaches, drowsiness, and sometimes triggering high anxiety symptoms and disassociation. I also have neck and shoulder blade pain. My quality of life has dropped significantly, and as a PhD student who recently had a baby, I don't even know if I will graduate one day or how to raise the baby with all these symptoms.
I've been in and out of physical therapy, which helps but not significantly. Do you have any tips on recovery? Thank you so much!
Please find a corrective care chiropractor in your area who has experience with cervical instability for the help you deserve. Best wishes.
I hv sudden headache and blur vision while working before computer and left neck pain pls suggest medicine or belt to wear
I suggest you go to your doctor or ER.
This is all me. Haven't worked in years. Can't bend over...everything starts spinning. Dr say there's nothing wrong with me. Can't get any help. I use to be hyper active...now 180 degrees in the other direction. It's a miserable existence.
Sorry to hear, I hope you find my videos and channel helpful.
My standard xray showed c4-c5 shifted to the right. I have brain fog and tinnitus. Should i look for a neurologist or an orthopedist first?
Sorry to hear - I'd want a stress x-ray first to see if there is any instabilities. Best wishes.
Hey, I wanted to ask I have been having shoulder pain alot for quite some time and I already have spodylosis in c3 c5 not too bad but a little.Could the shoulder pain be counted as a symptom. The pain goes all from left shoulder to trapezius muscle in neck and at rare times can be felt at the base of skull. I am going to see an ortho next week but this has made me alot nervous 😩
Yes shoulder pain can certainly come from your neck, a thorough examination should be able to determine if this is the case for you.
I have watched your videos and read your website. I had a rough chiropractic adjustment 2.5 months ago in the occiput/c1 range that has caused ongoing upper cervical tightness (vice like feeling), lack of side to side rotation and just keeps bothering me.
I have been seeing a different chiropractor for adjustments, laser therapy and gentle massage the past 2.5 months. These all help but it just keeps lingering.
How long should I pursue conservative treatment options before I seek further care?
Do you have a referral for the Southern California area?
Sorry to hear this...I would get some stress x-rays done to see what is happening in your neck - but if you are improving, that is a good sign even if it is slow.
Cervical instability can cause achalasia? Simptoms are difficulty to swallow and spasms.
It can, but there are other things that can cause dysphagia as well.
Prosim i o titulky v jazyce českém.....děkuji🥰🥰
Will try!
Would you happen to know a good place around Los Angeles that can do a proper assessment? I avoid looking down as much as I can as it feels like the extra stretch causes bizarre symptoms, and makes it feel like the blood flow to my head gets impaired.
Unfortunately, I do not. I hope you find a good chiropractor close to you.
I have a grade 1 retrolisthesis of C4 over C5. There is straightening of the normal cervical lordosis as well as degenerative changes between the anterior arch of C1 and the dens. Severe disc space narrowing involves C4-C5. I have been suffering from headaches, vertigo, blurred vision, tinnitus, digestive issues, heart palpitations, fatigue, and a heavy head feeling. Could this retrolisthesis be causing these issues?
It may be contributing to some of, you should be checked for cervical instability...check out my video: Cervical instability: everything you need to know. Best wishes.
Do you think have neck adjustments by a chiro can make symptoms worse? And can this heal on its own?
If those adjustments are aggressive and to the area of instability, yes that can exacerbate the area. If they are provided to the area of restrictions the adjustments can certainly be helpful. The correction needs to be coupled with the right corrective exercises and/or traction...cervical instability certainly needs professional guidance as it is a complex issue. All the best!
I started having burning pain in muscles between the shoulder blades but didn't make much of it and continues to workout and play golf and sit at my desk. Then a month later it blew up. Lots of burning and pain and neck pain and stiffness. Went to chiro for first time in my life and he said muscle strain and adjusted my neck and shoulders. Since then it's all gotten worse. Mri from different chiro later showed herniated disc at c4 and c5 but my biggest symptom is major major pressure headaches all over my head, around my eyes. Can't lay down cause pressure gets worse so then I've been having trouble sleeping.
@@832Pokemom how are you doing? Was there anything they helped?
@@832Pokemom Oh my, I have the same symptoms as you describe! and pulsatile tinnitus in right ear. I remember I replies to another of your comments on a video about ‘trapped nerves’ because I remember your name and just saw you here again with exactly same symptoms how I describe them. Seems like the research we’ve been doing has lead us here. I await an MRI scan in 2 weeks but now I’m convinced to get a Digital Motion x/ray (DMX) to see if it’s cervical instability is what’s causing all these crazy symptoms I had for the last 6 months. Hope you find relief💚
I had chairmalformation decompression surgery 6 years ago and just noe started having migraines and blurred vision in my right eye i also have terrible neck pain that shoots pain up to the front of my head. I have tingling in my right arm and dizziness . My doctors refuse to believe that its chairi related . They have tried all the iv migraines cocktails and they dont work i am now trying to prove that i have Cranial cervical instability .
I'm sorry to hear that, I hope you find the cause so you can address and get back to feeling well again. Take care.
Thank you Dr Saunders. Can an MRI scan detect cervical instability?
Not typically, stress x-rays are best if digital motion x-ray is not available.
When would a cervical instability be suspected? Does certain findings in MRI lead to suspected cervical instability, hence stress x-ray will be recommended by our specialist (neurologist?) ?
I have some atlanto axial instability. Something was causing inflammation in my synovial joint up there. Probably the consequences of not treating a slight subluxation after a fall 8 years ago, or maybe Lyme disease or an autoimmune facyor.
Imaging indicates that my case is mild, however, I seem to have pretty severe symptoms. It's like getting small strokes all the time and my arms and legs are involved. My intracranial pressure is poorly regulated so I have hypertension often. None of my senses are spared at this point. It's honestly a horrifying place to be. I can't think of many medical conditions that are scarier than this one.
I'm sorry to hear. :(
Hello dr
Is there any possible way to contact you i am from India and suffering from these symptoms.
Need your guidance please help
Unfortunately I don't do remote consultations as this time...sorry!
Hi there..I have the Pentad with further csf leaking and spiking as OSA small airway involved. My neck is always very loose inside and feels like vertebra are floating in water. Brain sag from leak makes smashing pain at back of head and neck pain pressure in front. When I haven't yet leaked like first thing in morning I check my neck and it doesn't hurt. Later in day I can't barely turn my head without pain. I started wearing a hard collar to sleep and actually slept straight through first time in years. Traveling vehicle very painful even with collar on. I am doing very slow careful movement therapy specialized for hypermobility and CCI. No diagnosis..testing not available. Any tips, reassurances, neurologist not on board as needed. GP at a loss.
I'm sorry to hear, but it sounds like you are on the right track with your doctors. Best wishes.
Arrived to this video due to symptoms pointing to CI. Half are repetitive neck spasms, the other half suggest vagal nerve involvement due to a variety of symptoms like heart palpitations, attending fatigue, sphincter issues, constipation...all in a remitting-relapsing manner. Greatest challenge: uncaring Primary physician.
Sorry to hear. :( I hope you find someone who is caring and can help you.
Dr. What are your thoughts on spinal decompression therapy? I only ask because I have been doing this for about a month now twice a week and it has been game changer.
For lumbar disc bulges, it can be effective for most, but correcting the underlying spinal distortions at the same time is important for overall correction.
Hey Jon,
Do you know anyone in London Ontario that has similar expertise?
I don't but you can look for a corrective chiropractor who takes x-rays. Best wishes.
I have a lot of the symptoms of this and I have heard previous neck injuries but currently I have symptoms of noise sensitivity and dizziness without any neck pain. So my question is it possible to have this without the presence of neck pain?
It is possible, but commonly neck pain is present.
@@drjonsaunders Actually just going over your list of symptoms, the only ones I'm currently having is noise sensitivity and dizziness, previous to the neck injuries I had tinnitus so I'm not sure what's causing what...I the reason I am connecting the neck is because when I strain and overuse my neck the symptoms get worse. Apart from when I overwork my neck it's otherwise feeling normal without pain in your opinion do you think I'm looking in the wrong area?
Thank you for this informative video! I have a severe atlas subluxation and did a digital motion xray which showed I have some overhang between c1 and c2. I have tried Nucca and am currently doing AO but don’t feel they are really helping. Do you recommend I continue with upper cervical chiropractic adjustments? It hasn’t even been a month with upper cervical. If it’s not helping, does this mean I need prolotherapy, PRP or PICL? My AO says he believes I have a misalignment in my entire spine. Is that typical of Atlas subluxation? Thanks for any and all input. I love your videos, by the way!
Thanks for your comments...it can sometimes take months to realign and heal...did you have flexion-extention as well as that can be helpful as well...looking at the entire spine is important as well. All the best!
try prolotherapy !!
Hi Dr. Saunders. I am 59 with C5 - C7 fused about 9 years ago. After golfing with my son in July I noticed pain on the back of my left head and some numbness running past my left ear across my lower jaw going into my neck. Swallowing also feels odd or numb. Bearing weight started to effect it as well, then some brain fog and sinus / eye pain over the last months. I know my neck is fairly straight above the fusions. I think I may have a ligament issue between C1 and C2 but I have been to 2 different chiropractors, and they don't believe that. All treatments I have had seem to make the symptoms worse. If I do have ligament laxity would chiropractic be helpful or harmful in your opinion?
I would suggest you go back and see your surgeon first, but I would think a flexion/extension xray series would be indicated, so I would make sure the chiropractor you see do stress x-rays before treating you, especially with your surgical history. Best wishes.
Is there any clinic in Calgary that can help me with this issue?
I'm not sure, sorry!
Hi Dr Saunders. Have you seen anyone completely bed ridden, almost over night, from cervical instability? What about someone suffering from Lyme Disease, but the actual reason they are sick is not from the Lyme, but from cervical instability? I am suffering from Long Covid and Lyme disease and co-infections and I have been treating them for 2 years but I am not getting any better. I have a doctor saying he thinks It might be cervical instability that is causing everything.
It would be unusual for one to become bed ridden overnight. I think further testing to rule out other potential causes is important. Best wishes.
@@drjonsaunders Thanks for the reply. Means alot.
I have had chronic neck pain for so many years I have never got any relief from drs or chiropractors and massage. I have a weird symptom that I am wondering if any one else have experienced this… when I turn my head from side to side it feels like grinding sand in my ears
ruclips.net/video/wcSikxV-C4A/видео.htmlsi=b66xfMd15MZqHCjR
I’ve been having so much pain just as you described where I can hardly even be up anymore moving around because my head feels so hard to support and also eye floaters. OTC meds aren’t helping. You say a lot of times an underlying condition could be causing it. In the past few years I’ve had 3 autoimmune panels done where my ANA was negative but my double stranded DNA antibody was positive all three times (apparently very unusual). Nothing ever came of it because rheumatologist was looking for swelling and rash and all I had was occasional ankle and hip pain and fatigue. Now I’m wondering if this can be related. Sooooo tired of my neck and shoulders hurting all day long just to support my head 😭
Sorry to hear that...find someone who can check your neck thoroughly...all the best.
Hey Jon, I coughed really hard 2 years ago and have had a nonstop constant headache that gets stronger and weaker day to day. I also have muscle spasms in my upper back, shoulders, and neck. Neck pain. Could I possibly have upper cervical instability from a very hard cough?
It's possible that the cough irritated an underlying condition...best to speak to your health provider for an appropriate diagnosis. Best wishes.
@@drjonsaunders been there done that, and no help at all. Was just curious if UCI could be brought on by a cough, in your opinion. Thanks
My x ray shows a reversed curvature in the neck and bone spurs, I had chiropractic work and found the massages helped more than the adjustments but they don’t really massage much of the actual neck. The area of my bruising or aching stuff feeling is the two nodules either side the most top discs of the neck or the base of the hairline at the back. I get vertigo, anxiety, the floor feels like it’s bouncing etc. I don’t know where to go since my doctors do nothing, do I see a physio or someone else?
If you have a cervical kyphosis, the only chance of some correction is to see a corrective chiropractor...feeling temporary relief doesn't constitute correction....correction takes time and persistence...you got this! Best wishes. :)
Hi Dr Saunders! Need your help and advice on this X-ray report "X-RAY CERVICAL SPINE AP & LAT VIEWS
There is straightening of cervical curvature with osteophytosis at multiple levels & reduced C5/C6 disc space.
There is no evidence of bony trauma or other bony lesion.
IMPRESSION :- CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS.
Will appreciate your guidance with rhe link of your published video on required exercise for the above problem.
Thanks
ruclips.net/video/r0xP_5B9z8c/видео.html
Is it possible that i could send you some digital flexion extension xrays and get your opinion?
Unfortunately I do not do any virtual consultations or 2nd opinions, only in office. Best wishes.
Ive had nausea and for 2 months now with some dizziness with no answers by doctors. Who do i see tgat specializes in this condition?
Your doctor should continue with testing until a cause is found...best wishes.
I have an appointment with the chiropractor tomorrow but I have cervical neck instability symptoms and don't get my digital motion x ray until Friday.....is it safe to see a chiropractor and if they do an adjustment without knowing forsure? Can they further damage anything?
I would definitely want to see those results before undergoing any type of treatment...best wishes.
So I went to an appointment with my physiatrist and she said my vertebra were moving when I move in my x-rays but she made it seem like it was ok. I told my PT and they freaked out and told me I need to see a neuro or a surgeon. I have a lot of those symptoms. My PCP keeps telling me I have anxiety (not really anything wrong with me). Everyone warns you away from chiropractors. This is a nightmare. I don't really know what to do. I am currently in PT for my neck and looking for a neurologist or ortho surgeon consult.
Sorry to hear all of this...please find a corrective care chiropractor who can take "stress x-rays" in flexion/extension and lateral fleslxion to determine if you have any cervical instability. This will help determine the cause of your problems. Best wishes.
@@drjonsaunders Physiatrist did flexion and extension xrays. I will try to find a corrective care chiropractor- thank you for the advice. I have spent a year in PT because I trashed my lumbar taking care of my mom- bulging discs l2-l4 and a ruptured one at l4-l5. I was so broken I leaned to the left and couldn't really walk. After a year in PT, I was doing better until my neck started to hurt. I can at least walk in the pool now, but my neck hurts so bad I get headaches and have a hard time keeping my head up. Your video probably saved me because I was trying to figure out what was wrong with me and I saw your video. I think it was in the back of my mind when I alerted my PT- I knew those xrays were not ok.
Look for upper cervical care chiropractic NUCAA based
Hi Dr Jon Saunders, I have been suffering for a long time. Was curious if you know anyone in Ontario that does prolotherapy for this condition?
Depending on where you are, some chronic pain clinics do this, however it is hard to find one unless you go to the US.
I’m in ontario too and I’m currently travelling to Caring Medical in fort myers every month for treatment. I recommend looking into Dr Hauser. It’s so expensive, i know, but my parents didn’t want to risk going to just anyone because it’s such a sensitive area. wishing you the best
@@scooterthekiddhow much did it cost
I am pretty sure I have upper cervical instability for at least 7 years. I have been to an atlas chiropractor and my atlas was off 13%. My treatment only lasted less than a week so I am contemplating going for stem cell therapy in Broomfield Colorado. Do you have any idea if that would be useful. It’s quite expensive.
For certain cases, it can help for sure.
When I lay flat on my back and turn my head to the right and then push my head into the bed, there is lateral shift movement high up in my spine, guessing c1-2?
I also hear crunching and bones clicking together.
When I turn to the left and put pressure on my head, no shifting, very strong. Could this be a notable ligaments? I mentioned this to my chiro, he didn’t examine further, just adjusted my neck. This neck issue has been going on about one year. Also stiff neck and periodic right hand stabbing pain, especially when looking over left shoulder and various neck movements. Also mentioned bowel bladder weakness in the past, head tremors are better since last adjustment. Should I see someone who will take X-rays?
It may be best to ask your chiropractor to send you for x-rays.
Can you still have it without neck pain? I have all symptoms but neck pain. I have lower back pain though.
Yes, but it is more common that you would have some neck symptoms.
can this cause symptoms in the legs? like tingling\ ect
In some cases, yes if it is causing cervical stenosis. Best wishes.
Dr . Saunders,
Can cervical instability along with neck osteoarthritis and chronic neck pain that causes migraines be the sole cause of dysautonomia (but not the POTS) version?
Can having bad cases of COVID twice cause it or at least make it much worse?
I’d appreciate any information.
It may, but the only way to tell is with a detailed examination. I hope you feel better soon.