A recent study came out in the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America discussing a new “diagnosis” they are calling Acute Atlantoaxial Rotary Subluxation (AARS).
You can read the article here: Acute Atlantoaxial Rotary Subluxation
The article describes AARS as a subluxation or dislocation of C1 and C2, the top two bones of the neck. The article goes on to describe the cause of AARS as a variety of things including Grisel Syndrome, trauma, post-surgical, and other diagnosis that impact the stability of the craniocervical junction such as Down’s Syndrome, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosis Spondylitis, and Klippel Feil Syndrome.
They discuss some of the anatomy, classification and treatment for this condition. The reason I write this post is to make you aware that there are other options available to their recommended treatment. Soft collar, NSAIDS, muscle relaxants, a cervical HALO!, and surgery, including screws and wiring, are in the tool belt of the MD and Orthopedist.
As a specific upper cervical chiropractor, the craniocervical junction (occiput, atlas, and axis) are our specialty. We focus on the top 2 bones of the neck for 2 reasons. First, the alignment of the atlas and axis dictate the alignment of the rest of our spine. This is why we see compensations throughout the body such as a high shoulder, curvature in the spine, a high hip, and one leg shorter than the other. Secondly, the top 2 bones of the neck surround the brainstem. This area is the where every message from your brain to the body must pass through. It is the master control center of the body. Even a slight misalignment in this area will put pressure and torsion on the spinal cord.
Here in Waimea, Hawaii, we are specific upper cervical chiropractors. To determine the FUNCTION of your nerve system, we use infrared thermography and heart rate variability. We also have a digital X-ray machine onsite to identify your exact misalignment of your atlas and axis. There is no guessing about your health in our conveniently located Waimea office. Specific upper cervical chiropractic adjustments are non invasive and should be considered before going to the extreme of drugs and surgery.
If you or anyone you know has had the diagnosis of AARS, Grisel Syndrome, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosis Spondylitis, Klippel Feil Syndrome, or any related to the craniocervical junction, please give our office a call. We always offer a complimentary consultation to see if you are in the right place.
Waimea, HI Chiropractors Dr. Tate Gentile & Dr. Kate Gentile are here to help.