How NUCCA Chiropractic Can Support Meniere’s Disease Patients

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Meniere’s Disease is a chronic inner ear condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Common symptoms include vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. While Meniere’s disease is typically managed through medication and lifestyle adjustments, many people find relief through upper cervical care, specifically NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) chiropractic care.

Research shows that NUCCA chiropractic adjustments, particularly focused on the atlas (the first cervical vertebra), can alleviate some symptoms of Meniere’s Disease by addressing potential imbalances in the nervous system and improving blood flow. Dr. Burcon is an upper cervical doctor of chiropractic who has hundreds of successful Meniere’s Disease cases in his practice. He teaches his approach to doctors, including myself. In this article, we’ll explore how I successfully implement Dr. Bucon’s approach using NUCCA and The Pierce Results System chiropractic at Koru Chiropractic in Louisville, Colorado, which can effectively support Meniere’s disease patients in the Boulder and Greater Denver Metro Area. I’ll also share some recent cases and testimonials from our practice.

Understanding Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s disease primarily affects the vestibular system, which regulates balance and spatial orientation. The cause of Meniere’s disease is not fully understood, though some studies suggest it may be related to fluid build-up in the inner ear, autoimmune reactions, or genetic factors. Dr. Burcon has found that most people suffered 1 or more whiplash injuries, on average 7 years before their onset of symptoms: Symptoms of Meniere’s include:

Vertigo or severe dizziness
Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
Hearing loss that may fluctuate
A feeling of fullness in the affected ear
I, like Dr. Burcon also most often find a history of Neck Pain, Headaches, and often Migraines

These symptoms can be unpredictable and may vary in intensity, making daily life challenging for those with Meniere’s disease.

Dr. Michael Burcon and the Pierce Results System with Upper Cervical Care

Dr. Michael Burcon is a pioneer in the field of upper cervical chiropractic care, known for his research and case studies on the impact of upper cervical adjustments on Meniere’s disease. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Burcon has dedicated a significant portion of his career to understanding the role of atlas misalignment and its effects on conditions like Meniere’s disease. His research demonstrates that precise upper cervical adjustments can often provide symptom relief for patients suffering from chronic vestibular disorders. Dr. Burcon’s work is particularly notable because he combines Upper Cervical chiropractic techniques with the Pierce Results System, a unique approach that further enhances the effectiveness of chiropractic care. I learned Dr. Burcon’s approach several years ago when I attended the Meniere’s Disease Symposium and observed him in his practice on several Meniere’s Cases.

The Pierce Results System is a method of chiropractic analysis and adjustment that uses advanced technology to assess spinal health in real-time, not just in the upper neck but throughout the spine. This system includes:

Digital Motion X-rays:

These allow chiropractors to see spinal motion and misalignments as they occur, making it easier to pinpoint the root cause of Meniere’s symptoms. Dr. Burcon’s research. as well as my own clinical findings showed that Meniere’s Disease patients often have a combination of a lower cervical and upper cervical issue.
Thermography:

This imaging technique measures heat patterns along the spine, which can indicate nerve interference. With Meniere’s disease, this is particularly useful for tracking inflammation or irregularities in the upper cervical region. This is one tool I use, besides leg checks and postural measurements using the Antometer to determine if someone is in or out of alignment and in need of an adjustment.
Drop-Table Adjustments:

The Pierce Results System employs specialized tables, as well as instrument-assisted adjustments to address issues below C1 that are influencing the patient’s nervous system function.

My approach combines this technology with NUCCA’s gentle upper cervical adjustments to target misalignments with precision, aiming to relieve pressure on the brainstem and restore nervous system balance. This integrative method not only helps reduce the frequency and intensity of Meniere’s symptoms but also promotes longer-lasting effects from each adjustment.

How Koru Chiropractic Uses These Techniques to Support Meniere’s Patients

At Koru Chiropractic, we draw from Dr. Burcon’s innovative approach by combining NUCCA’s gentle upper cervical alignment with comprehensive assessment methods inspired by the Pierce Results System. This allows us to:

Precisely Identify Misalignments: Using advanced imaging and assessment tools, we identify the exact location and severity of upper cervical misalignments.
Monitor Adjustments: By incorporating real-time data, we ensure that each adjustment is customized to provide the greatest benefit and minimal discomfort.
Track Progress: Regular assessments allow us to measure improvements in nerve function and symptom relief, helping us refine the care plan based on patient needs.

Integrating these advanced methodologies with our NUCCA care model ensures that Meniere’s disease patients receive effective, research-backed, and personalized care.

How NUCCA Chiropractic May Benefit Meniere’s Disease

NUCCA chiropractic care is a specialized form of chiropractic focused on the upper cervical spine, specifically the atlas (C1 vertebra), and its relationship with the skull and brainstem. This type of care involves precise adjustments that aim to correct misalignments in the upper cervical spine without using forceful twisting or cracking. NUCCA chiropractic adjustments aim to restore proper alignment to improve nerve function and relieve stress on the brainstem, which may positively impact symptoms of Meniere’s disease.

facts about NUCCA

Research Supporting NUCCA Chiropractic for Meniere’s Disease

Studies have shown that there is a potential link between upper cervical spine misalignment and Meniere’s disease symptoms. One study published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research examined patients with Meniere’s disease who received upper cervical chiropractic care. It found that these patients experienced an average of a 90% reduction in vertigo episodes over a six-week period (Elster, 2006). The study suggests that upper cervical misalignments may compromise blood flow to the inner ear or disrupt the function of the vestibular nerve, both of which could trigger Meniere’s symptoms.

Another case study in Cranio: The Journal of Craniomandibular Practice reported improvement in Meniere’s disease symptoms following upper cervical chiropractic adjustments. The study attributed symptom relief to improved blood flow and nerve function due to the realignment of the upper cervical spine (Burcon, 2009).

The NUCCA Chiropractic Approach at Koru Chiropractic

At Koru Chiropractic, we offer a variety of Chiropractic approaches. As the Clinical Director, I have chosen to specialize in NUCCA chiropractic care, providing safe, gentle, and effective adjustments tailored to each patient’s needs. Here’s how our approach works for those with Meniere’s disease:

Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with a thorough examination, which includes X-rays and precise measurements of the upper cervical spine. We take these x-rays both before and after the initial NUCCA spinal adjustment to ensure we are achieving maximal reduction of the Atlas Subluxation Complex.
Individualized Care Plan: Based on assessment results, we design a care plan that includes specific NUCCA adjustments to realign the upper cervical vertebrae. Each patient has a unique history, misalignment pattern, and lifestyle that we account for in their care plans.
Ongoing Support: Our team closely monitors your progress to adjust the care plan as needed, ensuring you receive the most effective support.

Why Choose NUCCA Chiropractic at Koru Chiropractic?

The NUCCA technique focuses on providing long-lasting adjustments that can relieve pressure on the nervous system without causing additional stress on the body. My gentle approach may offer relief for individuals with Meniere’s who are sensitive to traditional chiropractic adjustments. Additionally, NUCCA chiropractic has been shown to be a safe method with minimal risk of side effects.

Research-Backed Benefits of NUCCA Chiropractic for Meniere’s Disease

Reduces Vertigo Frequency and Intensity: Studies show that upper cervical adjustments may decrease episodes of vertigo.
Improves Blood Flow to the Inner Ear: Correcting upper cervical misalignments may enhance circulation to the vestibular system, potentially reducing fluid build-up.
Promotes Nervous System Balance: Realigning the atlas can alleviate brainstem pressure and improve communication within the nervous system, which may lessen tinnitus and ear fullness.

Living Well with Meniere’s Disease:

Lifestyle Tips In addition to NUCCA chiropractic care, adopting healthy lifestyle changes may help manage Meniere’s disease:

Limit Salt Intake: Reducing sodium can help decrease fluid retention, potentially minimizing ear pressure.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These substances can worsen dizziness and tinnitus in some patients.
Practice Stress Management: Stress is a known trigger for Meniere’s symptoms, so incorporating relaxation techniques can be beneficial.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps balance fluid levels in the body.

Recent Cases and Testimonials

Patient 1:

Brad came to our practice this Summer, from Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was struggling with the symptoms and recent Diagnosis of Meniere’s Disease from his Neurologist and found us on a Google search when looking for treatment options. When Brad came to the office his tinnitus was mind-numbing, he had fullness in the ears, neck pain, and moderate to severe bouts of vertigo, sometimes to the point that he would get nauseous and vomit. Brad had a misalignment and degeneration at C5 and C6 from an old whiplash injury in his 20’s as well as a large C1 misalignment (Atlas Subluxation Complex).

After the exam I used the combined approach of NUCCA and PRS I adjusted his lower and upper neck. To be honest he had a tricky misalignment pattern and I was not super satisfied with my post-adjustment imaging measurements. However, Brad reported back that about 15 minutes after leaving the office the secondary tinnitus in his ear was gone, two days later the fullness and “stuffy” feeling in his ears melted away and he had no vertigo episodes for the next month. His neck pain and headaches have resolved as well. Brad’s still under maintenance care and we’ve only had one flare-up of symptoms since he started care which was a huge improvement from his constant and intermittent but frequent symptoms.

Patient 2:

Alison came to our office this past Spring from Erie, Colorado. She had a sudden onset of Meniere’s Disease starting in February with severe episodes lasting 4-6 days and often vomiting for 4-6 hours. She was triaged at her local hospital and a stroke was ruled out. Her Audiologist tested her and she had a sudden onset of total hearing loss in her left ear. Her ENT Diagnosed her with sensorineural hearing loss and potentially Meniere’s Disease but told her that she’d need a longer history of symptoms, so if she had more vertigo attacks then they’d change the diagnosis.

Interestingly, Alison who is almost 50 had a major motor vehicle accident as a passenger at 10 years old, a history of migraines for the past 10 years, and an acute onset of stress when her husband had some severe health challenges of his own. I’m proud to report Alsion had a slow but steady improvement and now the resolution of her dizziness, the fullness of the ears, and neck and shoulder pain, and she has had no migraines for the past 8 months since she’s been under care. Unfortunately, her hearing is still gone, although she reports moments when she feels like it’s working a little again. She’s very stable with her alignment now, so perhaps time will tell if she gets further improvements.

Conclusion

Living with Meniere’s disease can be challenging, but NUCCA chiropractic care offers an effective, research-backed approach to help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. At Koru Chiropractic in Louisville, Colorado, we serve the Boulder and Greater Denver metro community and we are dedicated to providing compassionate and specialized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Meniere’s, consider exploring the benefits of NUCCA chiropractic care. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

References

Elster, E. (2006). Upper Cervical Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Meniere’s Disease: A Case Report. Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research.
Burcon, M. (2009). Upper cervical specific chiropractic management of Meniere’s disease: a case report. Cranio: The Journal of Craniomandibular Practice.

This article aims to provide educational information on NUCCA and PRS chiropractic care for Meniere’s disease and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.