Question
QUESTION: I have been having problems with my neck for a year now, don't recall doing anything to cause the pain.  I get headaches and if I make sudden movements or get stressed sharp pain goes into my head.  I had a CAT scan done of the brain for fear of a brain tumor, all came back clear.  I went to see a physio therapist for two months and he did acupuncture and some massage, traction was too painful.  He told me I had a pinched nerve that would take about a month to clear, when I stopped going all the pain and symptoms came back within a week.  I then went to a chiropractor for three weeks, every second day and even though my upper back feels great the pain in neck and head has not diminished.  I just had X-rays taken and the results are:  Neutral film of the cervical spine demonstrates straightening of the normal lordosis.  The vertebral body heights and disc spaces are well maintained.  Flexion and extension views demonstrate no evidence of instability.  No bony foraminal stenosis is identified.  There is mild osteoarthritis of the c1-2 articulation.  As I do not have additional insurance all visits to therapists cost out of pocket.  My doctor suggests giving massage therapy a try.  Any other suggestions as I would really like this to clear up.

ANSWER: I Lisa,
I'll be honest, this is a tough one. You have done everything I would do, yet you still have pain.

I strongly suspect the D.C. didn't correct the cervical curve straightening, this needs to be fixed before any progress is to be enjoyed in the long term. Find a D.C. that has home correction devices to normalize hypolordotic curves.

If you can't find any, I can direct you to some websites that sell them.

Essentially, they are a forehead harness with a 5lb weight hanging off it, this you do at home. No need for expensive repeat doctor visits, you just need the right tool for the job.

We have them at the office, they are inexpensive and very effective.

I don't know off hand the particular company that makes them. If you want, I will get back to you Wednesday with their website so you can get one.

They are easy to use, do not confuse this with a cervical traction kit, they are completely different.

Let me know if you want additional help.

Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you.  I have since spoken with a massage therapist and she believes I need "occiput release", do you know of this?  I would also like the web sites of the correction device you have mentioned.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Lisa,

Occiput release is exactly the same thing you get with towel traction. A thin 4 foot fiber towel, such as what patient gowns are made of, is wound up like a rope and put under the occiput. The practioner gently pulls to about 60 lbs for 5-10 seconds and ends with a slight thrust. This will make a "pop" sound and release the occiput.

I can't give you the company name until tomorrow, I'll be in that office again. I will give you it then.

Dr. Timothy Durnin