Seizures and Epilepsy: A Gentle and Effective Treatment Method

What are Seizures and Epilepsy?

A seizure is a sudden onset of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This activity can be mild or severe and can vary in intensity over time. Epilepsy is a chronic disorder that leads to recurrent seizures. While there is no cure for the disorder, there are many treatments that can help control the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures.

Signs and Symptoms of Seizures and Epilepsy

Seizures can vary widely in their intensity, duration, and frequency. Some people with epilepsy only have occasional seizures that are relatively mild, while others may have multiple seizures every day that are very intense. The most common symptoms of a seizure are involuntary convulsions, muscle stiffness, twitching, and jerking movements, and temporary confusion. Some people may also experience changes in vision, hearing, taste, smell, or touch. After a seizure, it is common for people to feel confused, tired, or agitated.

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Seizures and Epilepsy

At first glance, the upper cervical spine may not seem to have much to do with the brain or seizures. However, there is a strong connection between spinal function and electrical activity in the brain. As the topmost segment of the spinal column, the upper cervical spine is closely connected to the brainstem, the portion of the brain which links the cerebrum to the spinal cord. As a result, improper alignment of the upper cervical vertebrae (especially the C1-C2 vertebrae) can place undue pressure on the brainstem, inhibiting nerve flow and disrupting natural electrical activity. Left untreated, this build-up of pressure and inflammation can lead to a wide variety of neurological problems, including seizures and epilepsy.

How Our Upper Cervical Spinal Treatment for Seizures and Epilepsy Works

If you are living with recurrent seizures, upper cervical chiropractic care is an effective (yet commonly overlooked) treatment option. Upper cervical chiropractic care is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in a wide variety of cases. 

At Advance Upper Cervical Chiropractic, our expert chiropractor, Dr. Noah Kaplan, uses the Blair Technique to restore natural alignment to the spinal column and reduce pressure and inflammation around the brainstem. To do so, Dr. Kaplan employs a range of state-of-the-art 3D imaging technologies, including cone beam computed tomography, to visualize and measure upper neck alignment. We are the only chiropractic office in Walnut Creek and the entire East Bay area to utilize this technology in patient care

If Dr. Kaplan identifies a vertebral misalignment, he will perform a series of precise Blair adjustment techniques to gently coax the affected vertebrae back into their natural position. By restoring the upper cervical spine to its normal alignment, Dr. Kaplan is able to restore nerve flow and reduce inflammation around the brainstem, which in turn reduces the frequency and severity of seizures. 

If seizures or epilepsy are preventing you from doing the things you love, get in touch today to speak with Dr. Kaplan about the health of your upper cervical spine. Located in Walnut Creek, California, Dr. Kaplan also services Pleasant Hill, Concord, Lafayette, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore.