Misalignment of the upper part of the spine is an often overlooked problem for those with brain symptoms, chronic complex illness and/or mysterious health issues.  In these modern times with cell phones and laptops, we look down A LOT.  This raises our likelihood of having problems that originate in our neck.  A previous neck injury and/or a tendency to be flexible can make us even more vulnerable.  Flexibility is especially common in those with brain related or psychiatric conditions. 

In this episode, I’ll discuss:

* The very important role of the atlas, our first vertebrae, and why is can easily become misaligned.

* The many neck structures, including the vagus, which can be impacted when we misalignment.

* The importance of ligaments holding the atlas in place and how hypermobility can contribute laxity of this joint.

* The activities beyond injury that contribute to the atlas becoming misaligned. 

* Forward Head Posture, which results from having our head down too much and for too long, such as when we use a cell phone, laptop, poorly positioned computer or even read a book or write for extended periods.

* The role emotions can play in shifting the atlas out of place.

* The many symptoms associated with misalignment or upper cervical instability.

* A simple was to evaluate if vagus might be impacted and the types of imaging that is used to diagnose this problem.

* Types of treatment and specialists.

* The role of posture in keeping our head on straight.

Links mentioned:

The Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve in Brain Disorders (Part 1 of 2)

https://courtneysnydermd.substack.com/p/the-healing-power-of-the-vagus-nerve-33d

The Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve in Brain Disorders (Part 2 of 2)

https://courtneysnydermd.substack.com/p/accessing-the-power-of-the-vagus-bde

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Medical Disclaimer: This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment for either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating (if you are a practitioner). Consult your own physician for any medical and psychiatric issues that you may be having.

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