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CCI exercises

CCI Exercises for Post-PICL Rehab (CCI Series: Episode 5)

One of the more common questions I get from patients who undergo the PICL procedure is what does the physical therapy or rehab program look like after the procedure. Hence, I thought I would dive deep into a program that anyone can do at home or provide a physical therapist so they know what CCI … Continued

C1-C2 Fusion

C1-C2 Fusion – Complications are Common

C1-C2 fusion is all the rage among patients with CCI. So what is it and what are the side effects? Should you get a C1-C2 fusion? Let’s dig in. What is Craniocervical Instability (CCI)? CENTENO SHULTZ CLINICSUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBED Craniocervical instability (CCI) is when the upper neck levels of the spine are unstable (1). This is usually … Continued

neck pain but your imaging is normal

Neck Pain but Your Imaging Is NORMAL? An Important Read…

Do you have neck pain but your imaging is read as normal? This is unfortunately a common problem and prevents many patients from getting the care they need for these serious cervical injuries. Dr. Markle explains using two recent case studies of patients he has treated.

craniocervical instability

Ep 4: Craniocervical Instability: New Ligament Discovered

There are ligaments that hold your head on and they can be injured just like any other ligament. Some of these structures your average physician only obliquely know about, some only super-specialists know, and some, like today’s ligament, is so obscure that it needed to be rediscovered by scientists. It’s all very exciting because it … Continued

lifting weights with back or neck pain

7 Ways To Lift Weights Safely With Back Or Neck Pain

Patients with back or neck pain often want to know if they can still work out and lift weights, and if so, how can they work out without doing further damage. You’ll be happy to know, lifting weights with back or neck pain is possible with some modifications, which we’re going to provide in just … Continued

stem cell therapy for neck pain

Stem Cell Therapy for Neck Pain

Does stem cell therapy for neck pain work? This is one of those areas where there are some things that likely work to help neck pain, but most of what’s being offered is not what it seems. Let’s dig in. What Causes Neck Pain Before we get too much into stem cell therapy for neck … Continued

craniocervical instability

Understanding CCI Measurements vs. Instability: CCI Series Episode 1

Craniocervical instability is a very misunderstood concept because it’s been made so complex with different measurements and aggressive treatments. Hence, I’ll be writing a series of blogs to try to help patients understand various concepts. Today’s entry is about how CCI measurements relate to instability. What Is Craniocervical Instability? CENTENO SHULTZ CLINICSUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBED Craniocervical Instability has … Continued

Neck Fusion Problems Years Later – 10 Complications to Be Wary Of

Stabbing, persistent neck pain can be disabling. Patients often turn to neck fusion, a surgical procedure, in the hopes of eliminating the pain. While the procedure aims to address chronic neck pain, it is crucial to recognize potential complications that may arise even years after the surgery. Understanding these complications is essential for patients.  Let’s … Continued

EDS treatment for pain

Busy clinic week with several patients from aboard with a single question? Is there an Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) treatment for pain? Is there treatment for EDS pain? What is EDS? A group of inherited disorders that affect and weaken the connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments (1).  Primary sites of involvement include skin, joint … Continued

Cervical Fusion for Left Occipital Pain? No Joke

Some proposed surgeries are extreme and make little sense. For example, cervical fusion from the base of the skull to the lower cervical vertebrae. Patients lives are forever changed with devastating and oftentimes tragic consequences. This week in clinic, I was completely taken off guard and stunned by a proposed neck surgery by a local … Continued