My back doctor suggested having my "Atlas" readjusted. He recommended a chiropractor that specializes in this nonsurgical procedure. I went to her today and explained that I was diagnosed with TN. The Chiro took X-rays of my neck and said that the top bone in my neck(Atlas) was severely off kilter. She said this is what causes TN and other issues. The bone tilts and completely reeks havoc on your entire body. She said the Upper Cervical Spinal Correction was needed. The procedure is painless and immediate effects are felt. She is confident that after the Atlas is readjusted to its proper location, that the TN will disappear and the other issues I am experiencing will heal themselves.
NOTE: Make sure you doctor is trained in this procedure. I live in a large town and there are only 3 certified to perform it. It is painless and only takes a few minutes.
Some time ago I went to a Dorn method therapist regarding my jaw joints and she mentioned the same thing about Atlas in relation to TN (I didn't know I had TN then) as your doctor did. The acupuncturist I'm seeing initially also thought that unblocking my neck spine could help as it does to some people-it didn't. Misaligned neck spine can be related to a lot of issues in the head/face area, however, as TN is so individual it doesn't unfortunately help everyone. I hope you'll feel better after the readjustment!
UPDATE: AFTER 3 ADJUSTMENTS TO THE ATLAS (SOUNDS WORSE THEN IT IS), I HAVE A 90% REDUCTION IN PAIN AND CONSISTENCY. THE PROCEDURE IS SO EASY AND PAINLESS THAT I WAS HAVING MY DOUBTS THAT IT WOULD EVEN WORK. WELL, FOR ME, IT APPEARS TO BE WORKING WELL AND THE DOCTOR SAID MY ATLAS IS HOLDING AND NO FURTHER ADJUSTMENTS ARE NEEDED AT THIS TIME. HOPE OTHERS WILL GIVE THIS A CHANCE.
So glad your not having as much pain! Are you still taking (or did you ever) take meds. Also, what exactly should I ask that they are trained in, just Atlas readjustment?
I have been on Tegretol and Neurontin which provided up and down relief. I also went thru a couple of sessions of acupuncture. I believe the technical term for the Atlas adjustment is Upper Cervical Spinal Correction. The procedure "removes spinal cord compression and reactivates the normal transmission of brain messages to the affected part of the body." My Atlas(top neck bone) was off kilter about 45 degrees and my head, neck, and body was compensating causing the TN to show up in full force. I have begun the process to wean myself off the medication as I believe it is bad to stop it cold turkey due to the amount I was taking. This really has had an immediate impact for me and I hope others will at least check into it. Hope this helps. : )
Catherine said:
So glad your not having as much pain! Are you still taking (or did you ever) take meds. Also, what exactly should I ask that they are trained in, just Atlas readjustment?
I honestly do not know. I have a followup appointment on Wednesday and can ask my Doctor then. I will let you know what she says. I have always been anti-chiropractor since it freaks me out when they crack your neck on that archaic bed. This procedure is as simple as them lining you up while you lay sideways and then a series of gentle tapping, like 3-5 flicks of the finger, in certain areas on the side of the neck and around the ear. Then they check your legs wearing special shoes(bowling shoes) and see if your legs are the same length. My right leg was shorter then my left before I started this, and now they are back to being even. I still have mild flare ups as it takes awhile for the body to heal itself, but I am not in agony anymore.
I was at the point where I offered one of my sisters horses ten apples to kick me in the face, to which she replied, "but you wouldn't have a face anymore", and I said, "I know."
I pray for everyone affected by this.
Anne said:
Would an Osteopath be able to do that procedure or would it have to be a chiropractor?
Are you still going.. I have been going to an upper cervical care clinic for 3 months now. I have had 4 adjustments in three months. I have reduced my meds by 1/2 and I really think it is helping me. My insurance doesn't cover it and it has been expensive but I was willing to try anything. I was getting to the point I couldn't even leave the house. I would like to hear if you are still going and if it is still helping you.
Thanks so much!
Lee
teerex10 said:
UPDATE: AFTER 3 ADJUSTMENTS TO THE ATLAS (SOUNDS WORSE THEN IT IS), I HAVE A 90% REDUCTION IN PAIN AND CONSISTENCY. THE PROCEDURE IS SO EASY AND PAINLESS THAT I WAS HAVING MY DOUBTS THAT IT WOULD EVEN WORK. WELL, FOR ME, IT APPEARS TO BE WORKING WELL AND THE DOCTOR SAID MY ATLAS IS HOLDING AND NO FURTHER ADJUSTMENTS ARE NEEDED AT THIS TIME. HOPE OTHERS WILL GIVE THIS A CHANCE.
Sorry for the delay. I am using meds and having my atlas checked and when needed, adjusted. I have the occassional flareup but nothing like it was. Some days I have no pain, and others I have 3-4 mild to moderate. I do not have insurance anymore, so everything is out of pocket. Glad to hear you are doing better. I go in tomorrow to have my atlas rechecked. Wish me luck! : )
How often do you go? He has just put me on every other week. At first I was going 2x a week for 6 weeks, then 1x a week for 5 weeks now once every other week. He has only done three adjustments in over 3 months. Doe's you doctor have you make that many visits. I really think is is helping some but I have already spent $1500.00 out of my pocket. When I have had 18 visits with only three adjustments it makes me wonder if all of those visits are necessary. I want to continue going but driving an hour each way twice a week and only getting an adjustment once a month it is costing more money than I can afford. I am curious about how often you go and how many adjustments you have had? Also did he set you up on a certain number of visits or do you just go when you feel like you need to?
Thanks in advance for your response!
Lee
Thanks
teerex10 said:
Lee,
Sorry for the delay. I am using meds and having my atlas checked and when needed, adjusted. I have the occassional flareup but nothing like it was. Some days I have no pain, and others I have 3-4 mild to moderate. I do not have insurance anymore, so everything is out of pocket. Glad to hear you are doing better. I go in tomorrow to have my atlas rechecked. Wish me luck! : )