Yes, I’m serious. After living with MS over 35 years I thought I knew everything about natural and holistic ways to heal. Especially all things chiropractic, however, I was wrong and frankly; this blew my mind! I only learned about “THIS” 6 years ago although it’s been around for decades.

I’m talking about Atlas Orthogonal?

“Our Atlas” refers to the Atlas vertebra, the first cervical vertebra (C1) located at the top of the spine that supports the head. Atlas Orthogonal (AO) is a chiropractic technique that aims to correct misalignments of the Atlas vertebra using a gentle and precise adjustment method.

The best description I can give you to understand what the Atlas does is to take your thumb and index finger and put them together (that’s about the size of our atlas) now Imagine your head sitting on that. The average weight of a human head is 10-11 lbs. So, you can picture that heavy weight on the atlas and if the atlas is off or shifts in the slightest you will have many physical symptoms and some very serious health problems.

Symptoms of Atlas Misalignment:  Numbness, tingling, neck stiffness, migraines, headaches, dizziness, facial pain, vertigo, ringing in ears, jaw pain, shoulder pain, ankle, hip, knee pain, vagus nerve issues, gait issues, high blood pressure, brain congestion.  See how many of these symptoms mimic MS symptoms?

Atlas Orthogonal can only be performed by chiropractors who have received specialized training in the technique. The Atlas Orthogonal technique uses a percussion instrument to gently adjust the Atlas vertebra without the need for manual manipulation of the neck.

Atlas Orthogonal adjustments have been shown to help improve the quality of life for people with MS.

There are various types of Atlas adjustments, including the traditional manual adjustment, the Atlas Orthogonal technique, and the NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) technique. However, Atlas Orthogonal is a unique technique that is specifically designed to correct Atlas misalignments. I do prefer the AO technique as it has given the most benefit to myself, my family and many of my friends with MS.

10 ways that Atlas Orthogonal can help people with MS:

1. Reduce pain: Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help alleviate pain in the neck, back, and other areas of the body that may be affected by MS.
2. Improve posture: Misalignments of the Atlas vertebra can cause poor posture, which can exacerbate MS symptoms. Correcting Atlas misalignments can help improve posture and reduce symptoms.
3. Increase range of motion: Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help increase range of motion and flexibility, making it easier to walk, move and perform daily activities.
4. Improve balance: MS can cause balance problems, but correcting Atlas misalignments can help improve balance and reduce falls. (I have personally witnessed PwMS go in for an adjustment while they used a cane or a walker and walk out normally, unassisted)
5. Boost immune function: Atlas Orthogonal adjustments have been shown to boost immune function, which can help reduce the severity of MS symptoms.
6. Enhance nerve function: Misalignments of the Atlas vertebra can interfere with nerve function, but Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help improve nerve function and reduce MS symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, burning sensation.
7. Reduce inflammation: Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help reduce inflammation in the body, which we know plays a role in the development and progression of MS.
8. Reduce stress: Chronic stress can worsen MS symptoms, but Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
9. Improve sleep: MS can disrupt sleep (unfortunately, this is a big challenge with MS), but Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help improve sleep quality and duration.
10. Support whole body healing: Atlas Orthogonal adjustments can help support overall health and well-being, which is vital for managing MS and reducing symptoms. When our spine is in alignment our bodily systems, joints and spine can work naturally without undue stress. When your atlas is in alignment, cerebral spinal fluid will increase and help the blood flow around the brain which is key for detoxing.

After reading all of this great information, do you believe that Atlas Orthogonal is the key to beating MS? Whatever you believe, there has to be no doubt about the amazing, life-changing benefits it can give. It should definitely be a part of everyone’s healing journey!

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To our health!

Kellie

 BABY, It’s Cold Outside!!!!

Can any extreme temperatures cause an MS flare-up? I’m not sure where you’re located, but we’re now in fall but it feels like winter mode for me here in Chicago. That means hat, gloves, scarves, ear muffs, snow pants, boots, you know, anything to beat the extreme cold. “BRRRR, I’m Freezing,” seems to be my go-to word for the past month and for anyone that knows me, Yes, comparisons of Chicago and Antarctica are definitely on my mind!  

Were you one of the millions of MS sufferers who were counting down the days for cooler weather?  Me too! Yes, heat and humidity can be very disruptive and cause minor, temporary flare-ups of our MS symptoms during the summer months, but did you know some people also have challenges during the winter months? It’s less common, but still can affect those of with MS? And here’s another fact, unfortunately some people are affected by both hot and cold. If this is you, I’m sorry that you’re not getting a reprieve. 

 

Many report worsening of symptoms just as much in the coldest part of winter as they do in the hottest months of summer!  You might be wondering if we can use ice, cold showers, cold compresses or cooling vests to cool down during the summer, why would the cold negatively affect us now, why is this different? The truth is that any drastic changes in temperature either hot or cold can have a negative impact on MS sufferers.

 Things you may experience due to the Cold:      

• Fatigue
• Spasms
• Joint and muscle pain
• Muscle stiffness
• Balance
• Numbness and tingling
• Depression

The good news is, just like in summer months, there are things we can do to protect ourselves against the cold.

Make sure your house is properly insulated, check around doors and windows for any pesky drafts, there are plenty of low-cost ways to seal them.  While you’re in, you can use a heating pad, blankets, extra clothing. Some people find warm showers or baths may relieve some of the stiffness, aches, and pains. (Be careful to not become overheated!) You can also warm up with a nice cup of soup, tea or coffee.   

If you have to be out in the elements, try layering clothing to keep heat from escaping, protect your head and use hand or feet warmers. Also be sure to use any walking devices or aides to help you outside when your muscles can become stiff or slow to respond. Just like the summer months, it’s very important to stay hydrated, make sure to continue drinking enough water, people tend to think just because it’s cold outside you can’t become dehydrated. Dehydration can also cause or complicate many of the above symptoms.

As I’ve said before, our minds are extremely powerful and I’d like to say it’s as easy as thinking Warm thoughts of summer to beat the cold, but your best line of defense is to be prepared for the elements, listen to your body, and seek assistance if needed.  You can learn more about MS in All About MS and Resources section to help you on your journey! 

 

If you have found this article helpful please share. As always, I look forward to and appreciate your feedback!

To our health!

Kellie

If you want to learn more about the BEST CBD products to help you on your own journey with MS visit: www.successwithnewyou.com 

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