downtown-chiropractic

America's Silent Epidemic: The Nervous System Crisis Hiding in Plain Sight

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:26:32 GMT

Nervous system disorders are among the most common yet underappreciated health conditions in the United States. Ranging from tension-type headaches and migraines to diabetic neuropathy and beyond, they affect daily functioning, productivity, and quality of life for hundreds of millions of Americans. Despite their prevalence, these conditions are frequently dismissed or undertreated, leaving many sufferers without effective, long-term care.

However, a new cross-sectional study drawing on data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 has placed tension headaches and nervous system disorders broadly in the spotlight. Published in JAMA Neurology, the study reveals that 180.3 million people in the U.S. were impacted by disorders affecting nervous system health in 2021, representing over 54% of the population. Of the 36 conditions examined, tension-type headaches topped the list, affecting 121.9 million people or roughly 37% of the U.S. population, surpassing even migraines (57.7 million) and diabetic neuropathy (17.1 million).

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

The numbers are striking in a global context as well. The U.S. age-standardized prevalence of nervous system disorders was higher than the global average (54.2% vs. 43.1%) and higher than every other country included in the analysis. As the study authors noted, these disorders are not only highly prevalent but cause significant disability for millions, with reduced mortality leading to more years lived with disability (YLDs).

The study's authors were direct in their call to action, concluding that the United States should prioritize efforts to combat these conditions through the development and implementation of new and effective prevention strategies, therapeutics, and focused rehabilitation. Tension headaches, long overshadowed by more acutely dangerous conditions, are now being recognized as a major driver of disability-adjusted life years across the country.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

One promising avenue that the broader medical conversation often overlooks is chiropractic treatment. The existing literature offers meaningful evidence for chiropractic's effectiveness in managing tension headaches specifically. A randomized clinical trial published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found spinal manipulation to be comparably effective to amitriptyline, a commonly prescribed pharmaceutical, for the treatment of chronic tension-type headaches. Additionally, a 2021 randomized clinical trial published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies demonstrated the effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation versus sham manipulation for recurrent headaches in children aged 7 to 14.

These findings suggest that chiropractic care is not merely a complementary option but a clinically validated approach for one of America's most pervasive health challenges. Given that maintaining a healthy nervous system may help reduce or eliminate many of the 36 ailments studied, the implications extend well beyond headache relief alone.

Implications for Patients and Providers

The scale of this public health issue means that tension headaches are not an isolated concern but are almost certainly present in the lives of patients, their families, and their communities. For healthcare providers, this study is a call to initiate conversations about nervous system health with every patient, not just those who present with headache complaints. More than half of patients walking into any healthcare setting are likely affected by one or more nervous system conditions, often without connecting their symptoms to an underlying pattern.

The Path Forward

The study's authors are clear: the U.S. needs coordinated, proactive strategies to address the nervous system disease burden. While pharmaceutical treatment remains a common first line of defense, it is not the only or necessarily the best option for every patient. Chiropractic care, with its direct focus on nervous system health and spinal function, is uniquely positioned to address tension headaches and many of the related conditions documented in the Global Burden of Disease data.

As awareness of this crisis grows, so too does the opportunity for integrative, patient-centered approaches to make a meaningful difference. Tension headaches may be common, but with the right care and informed providers, they do not have to be chronic.

For more details, you can read the full study here: Ney JP, Steinmetz JD, Anderson-Benge E, et al. US burden of disorders affecting the nervous system: from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 Study. JAMA Neurol, 2026;83(1):20–34.

Breakthrough in Alpha-Gal Syndrome Treatment: Exploring Auricular Acupuncture

jcbonedoc@gmail.com (Dupuis) — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 15:49:12 GMT

Auricular Acupuncture: A New Hope for Treating Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is an allergic reaction to mammalian meat triggered by the bite of a Lone Star tick, resulting in sensitivities to alpha-galactose, a sugar found in mammalian products. The hallmark symptom of AGS is delayed anaphylaxis, which can occur hours after consuming red meat or other mammal-based products. Unfortunately, the only known way to manage AGS is through strict dietary avoidance, making daily life for patients particularly difficult.

However, a recent case series published in Medical Acupuncture highlights a potentially transformative treatment: auricular acupuncture. Specifically, the Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment (SAAT) shows promise in addressing the root of AGS. This study tracked 137 patients diagnosed with AGS who underwent SAAT at two clinics in the U.S. Results were astounding: 96% of patients reported complete remission of their symptoms and were able to reintroduce mammalian meat into their diets. These results mark a major step forward in treatment options for a condition that has long been considered untreatable.

Understanding Auricular Acupuncture and SAAT

Auricular acupuncture is a therapeutic modality that involves stimulating points on the outer ear to treat health conditions. The procedure specifically used in this case series, SAAT, involves the insertion of a needle into a designated point on the ear, which remains in place for three weeks. This method is believed to stimulate the body’s immune and nervous systems in ways that help reduce allergic sensitivities.

SAAT has been particularly effective in treating various allergies, and AGS is no exception. The study involved carefully monitoring patients, and post-treatment follow-up ranged from 3 to 60 months to assess long-term effects. Remarkably, patients continued to report symptom resolution well after the needles were removed, indicating that the benefits of SAAT are not just temporary but possibly permanent.

Case Series Findings

The case series involved a diverse range of patients, each with a confirmed diagnosis of AGS based on clinical history and testing. These patients experienced a variety of AGS symptoms, including urticaria, gastrointestinal issues, and anaphylaxis. Their cases were monitored over a period of months and even years to assess the effectiveness and safety of SAAT.

In nearly every case, the treatment was effective. Within weeks of treatment, patients reported being able to consume mammalian products without experiencing adverse effects. Additionally, none of the participants reported severe side effects from the treatment. In fact, those who had previously experienced anaphylactic reactions before the treatment were able to consume meat safely post-treatment.

Implications for Future Research

The results of this study are particularly exciting given the growing number of AGS cases. With climate change and habitat shifts increasing the prevalence of the Lone Star tick, more people are at risk of developing AGS. Traditionally, AGS patients have been left with limited options, and the emotional toll of strict dietary restrictions can be significant. SAAT offers a glimmer of hope, not just for AGS sufferers but for allergy sufferers in general.

While the results of this study are promising, the authors also call for more rigorous, randomized controlled trials to confirm the effectiveness of SAAT on a larger scale. The study's success in providing long-term relief to a majority of patients is a critical step in validating alternative treatments for AGS. It opens up new avenues for exploring how the body's nervous system can be harnessed to reduce allergic sensitivities.

The Path Forward

If future research confirms these findings, auricular acupuncture could revolutionize treatment approaches for AGS and potentially other food allergies. The low-risk, minimally invasive nature of SAAT makes it an attractive option for patients seeking alternatives to conventional methods that rely solely on avoidance strategies. Moreover, as interest in integrative medicine grows, SAAT might see broader applications in clinical practice.

For now, SAAT represents a beacon of hope for those who struggle with the debilitating effects of AGS. Although it requires more exploration to become mainstream, this case series is a major step forward, offering a path toward not only managing but potentially curing the condition.

For more details, you can read the full study here .

Regulation of Healthy Blood Pressure

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:41:22 GMT

Nutritional protocol to support regulation of blood pressure in a healthy range for cardiovascular health and function

Cardiovascular Health and Function

Promoting healthy function within the various cells and tissues of the cardiovascular system helps ensure proper removal of cellular debris and adequate perfusion and oxygenation of tissues. Healthy heart tissues support blood flow and oxygen delivery while healthy vascular structures are essential for the critical delivery of nutrients and biochemical compounds to bodily tissues. Clinicians can support healthy blood pressure regulation by recommending a balanced diet rich in cardio-supportive nutrients, encouraging smoking cessation and alcohol moderation, educating on stress-reduction and sleep hygiene practices, addressing any underlying infections, and incorporating targeted dietary and herbal supplements.

Supportive Lifestyle Practices

Recommend patients participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week as physical activity hasbeen shown to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over time.8

Limiting stress through mindfulness, healthy sleep patterns, and self-awareness can help lower systolic blood pressure.9

Yoga has also been found to have a significant effect on lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.10

Cardiovascular Health and Function

Recommend consumption of foods rich in magnesium such as buckwheat, kale, Swiss chard, spinach, sweet potato, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and lentils. Higher intake of dietary magnesium is associated with supporting healthy systolic, diastolic, and overall blood pressure already in a healthy range.1,2

Encourage patients to consider incorporating foods that increase nitric oxide (NO) production in the body such as beetroot.3,4

Ensure patients consume foods high in arginine and quercetin. These nutrients possess vasorelaxant properties and are associated with healthy blood pressure levels when consumed.5,6

Counsel patients to increase their daily consumption of foods replete in omega-3 fatty acids, namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA display positive effects on blood pressure regulation and modulation of systolic and diastolic pressure.7 Optimal sources include cold-water fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna.

Dietary Supplement Regimen

Olprima™ EPA|DHA: Supports cardiovascular and brain health and a healthy inflammatory response.
Suggested Use: 2 softgels per day.

Garlic Forte: Supports cardiovascular health, normal cholesterol levels, and circulatory health.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet 1-2 times daily.

Cardio-Plus®: Supports heart function, healthy circulation, and energy metabolism.
Suggested Use: 2 tablets per meal.

Hawthorn: Traditionally used to support heart muscle function and cardiovascular health.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet 2-3 times daily.

Support For Healthy Thyroid Function

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:41:22 GMT

Managing the body’s natural hormone processes through focused nutrition and lifestyle practices

Thyroid Health and Function

The thyroid gland exerts hormone effects across nearly all organ systems by increasing their function and metabolism. Tightly controlled by a negative feedback loop, thyroid hormone synthesis begins in the hypothalamus where thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) is secreted and signals the anterior pituitary to release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Stimulation of the thyroid follicular cells by TSH signals thyroxine (T4) production which requires nutritional precursors tyrosine and iodine for synthesis. T4, exclusively produced in the thyroid gland can be converted to the active thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3) by cleavage of iodine via the action of iodothyronine deiodinase enzymes. T3 is approximately 8 times more biologically active than T4 with 90% of circulating T3 being produced by peripheral conversion in the brain, liver, bloodstream, and other tissues of the body.

Thyroid hormone can be bound to other proteins or free-floating in circulation. Free thyroid hormone binds within the nucleus of a cell and acts to increase basal metabolic rate and thermogenesis causing increased oxygen and energy consumption. Other effects of thyroid hormone include chronotropic and inotropic cardiac effects, stimulation of the nervous system resulting in increased alertness, development of fast-twitch muscle fibers, anabolism of proteins, and regulation of the ovulatory cycle and spermatogenesis.

Common causes of acquired thyroid disorders include nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune activity against thyroid tissue, environmental toxicity, and iatrogenic origins such as radiation, surgery, and medications.

Thyroid Health and Function

Promote stress reduction and activities that stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. Excess cortisol has a significant adverse effect on thyroid function and is primary to many underactive thyroid cases. Elevated cortisol leads to decreased levels of free T3 and increases the risk of autoimmune activity against thyroid tissues.

Encourage regular exercise utilizing a combination of moderate aerobic intensity and weight-bearing activities. Exercise improves thyroid function by increasing tissue sensitivity to thyroid hormone, promoting healthy weight management, and improving perfusion to the thyroid gland.

Minimize exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) as they can disrupt various stages of thyroid metabolism. EDCs implicated in the disruption of thyroid physiology include flame retardants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, phthalates, bisphenol A, perfluorinated chemicals, and perchlorate.

Whole Foods:

Nutritional Recommendations

Ensure adequate, but not excessive, amounts of iodine. Iodine is a key component of both T3 and T4 thyroid hormones and is found in foods like iodized salt, fish, seaweed, and dairy products. Iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism while excess iodine has been shown to precipitate thyroid issues or exacerbate pre-existing thyroid conditions. The Wolff Chaikoff effect prevents the thyroid from synthesizing large amounts of thyroid hormone by rejecting excessive iodine quantities.

Promote proper thyroid hormone conversion by supplying adequate selenium and zinc , which are necessary for the production and activation of iodothyronine deiodinase enzymes. Selenium is a trace mineral found in foods such as Brazil nuts and organ meats; zinc is found in oysters, beef, fish, and seafood.

Recommend that those with underactive thyroid avoid consuming large amounts of raw goitrogenic foods. Goitrogens are well known to interfere with thyroid function and include vegetables in the Brassica genus such as Brussels sprouts, kale, and broccoli. Goitrogens are sensitive to food processing including heat, which can denature them, and steaming has been shown to reduce their effect.

Dietary Supplement Regimen:

Thytrophin PMG®: Contains bovine thyroid PMG extract.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet three times per day on an empty stomach.

Cataplex® E: Supports cellular processes and thyroid function with vitamin E and selenium.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet daily.

Thyroid Complex: Contains Bladderwrack and Ashwagandha for thyroid health.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet per meal.

Organically Bound Minerals: Provides iodine from whole foods to support thyroid function.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet per meal.

Support For Healthy Immune Function

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:41:22 GMT

Healthy habits and nutritional protocols to help support a healthy, well-functioning immune system.

Immune System Health Support

Our immune system plays a pivotal role in our overall health by protecting the body from exogenous immune challenges. Our body works continuously to keep our immune system in homeostasis so that it is neither underactive nor overactive. Key components of the immune system include the skin, spleen, thymus, tonsils, adenoids, mucous membranes, bone marrow, gut, microbiome, lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and lymph fluid.

Because 70% of immune system cells are in the gut, supporting proper digestive health and gut function is imperative for balanced immune activity. A diverse, healthy microbiome is an essential element of the immune system. While everyone can benefit from immune support, populations that may warrant additional immune consideration include the elderly, those with current diseases and comorbidities, pregnant women, and young children.

Implementing specific lifestyle habits and nutritional interventions can support a healthy, well-functioning immune system.

Supportive Lifestyle Practices

Sleep has been found to bolster the immune system, while lack of adequate sleep can increase the risk of infection. Research has shown that adults should get at least 7 hours of sleep per night to support optimal health.

Daily movement is beneficial to the lymphatic system. Movement and exercise stimulate lymph fluid to flow throughout our body and promote the excretion of unwanted bacteria, viruses, and toxins via our lymphatic system.

As chronic stress can impair the function of the immune system, stress-relieving activities should be considered as adjunctive support. For additional psychosocial support, an emphasis on community and human connection can be helpful, as this has been shown to support a healthy immune response.

Whole Foods

Nutritional Recommendations

Encourage consumption of mushrooms such as maitake and Turkey Tail which have been shown to support a healthy immune system response. Mushrooms can positively impact the development of hematopoietic stem cells, macrophages, lymphocytes, T cells, and Natural Killer cells that support a robust immune system.

Whole food sources of probiotics can provide beneficial bacteria for the microbiome to aid in immune health and microbial diversity. A few examples of probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, homemade pickles, kvass, and pickled vegetables. Probiotics have been found to both stimulate and modulate the immune system.

Recommend foods rich in Vitamins A, C, E, and selenium such as colorful fruits and vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, avocados, citrus fruits, spinach, bell peppers, Brazil nuts, and almonds. Seafood is also a rich source of Vitamin A and selenium. These antioxidants support a normal inflammatory response and support healthy white blood cell function.

Ensure intake of foods rich in zinc such as organ meat, beef, poultry, and shellfish. Zinc is an essential micronutrient for cell activities such as division and growth and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc plays a role in both innate and adaptive immune responses, making it a key nutritional building block for immune health.

Dietary Supplement Regimen:

Epimune Complex: Supports respiratory health and immune system activity.
Suggested Dose: 2 capsules per day.

Immuplex®: Supports immune response through a blend of essential micronutrients.
Suggested Dose: 2 capsules per day.

ProSynbiotic: Supports gut health and bowel regularity.
Suggested Dose: 1 tablet 2-3 times per day.

Echinacea Premium: Enhances immune system function and supports upper respiratory health.
Suggested Dose: 3 capsules per day.

Seasonal Immune Support

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:41:22 GMT

Seasonal Immune Response

The innate and adaptive immune systems help regulate the body’s response to an array of potential allergens from the external environment. The immune system must distinguish between innocuous and harmful environmental antigens to avoid an exaggerated or self-destructive immune response. Potential allergens like pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mites are constantly sampled by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages. APCs process antigens and present them to T cells. T helper 2 (Th2) cells promote the release of immunoglobulins and cytokines. Antigen-dependent activation of tissue mast cells with specific IgE bound to their surface is the central event in acute allergic reactions. IgE sensitizes mast cells to release biologically active mediators like histamine and leukotrienes.

Histamine is important in conditions like allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and asthma. Mast cells represent the most significant source of histamine within the immune system. Mast cells are distributed throughout nearly all vascularized tissues with relatively high numbers occurring near body surfaces including the airway epithelium. In allergic rhinitis, allergens stimulate mast cells, CD4+ T cells, B cells, macrophages, and eosinophils to infiltrate the lining of the nasal cavity and the nasal mucosa. The release of histamine and cytokines leads to uncomfortable symptoms like mucosal edema, sneezing, pruritis, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion.

Lifestyle and nutritional interventions can support a healthy seasonal immune response by stabilizing mast cells, modulating the histamine response, and reducing exposure to potential seasonal triggers.

Supportive Lifestyle Practices

Consider sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) as a strategy to reorient the immune response for individuals experiencing allergy-mediated symptoms. SLIT promotes the synthesis of antibodies that block the allergen-IgE mediated complex to induce an anti-inflammatory environment.

Recommend saline irrigation of the nasal passages to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis. This practice is thought to work by thinning nasal mucus and flushing allergens and bacteria from the nasal cavity.

Encourage the use of a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Air purifiers that use HEPA filtration reduce airborne allergens like dust mites, animal dander, and pollen and can reduce allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms.

Whole Foods

Nutritional Recommendations

Encourage intake of foods rich in quercetin, which has been shown to inhibit the production and release of histamine by stabilizing the cell membrane of mast cells and preventing their activation. Onions are one of the richest food sources of quercetin. Other good sources include broccoli, bell peppers, apples, and berries.

Encourage the inclusion of foods rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet. Resolvins are lipid mediators biosynthesized from omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Resolvins can facilitate a balanced adaptive immune function and support healthy allergic airway responses by modulating the recruitment of eosinophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages.

Suggest the use of raw honey in place of sugar. Honey contains phytochemicals such as gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, kaempferol, and caffeic acid that have been shown to exhibit anti-allergic effects.

Emphasize the importance of consuming foods rich in vitamin D, such as the flesh and liver of fatty fish. Smaller amounts can be found in beef liver, egg yolks, and cheese. Vitamin D helps modulate adaptive immune function and supports mast cell stabilization.

Dietary Supplement Regimen:

Allerplex®: Supports healthy mucous membranes and respiratory function.
Suggested Use: 3 capsules per meal.

AllergCo: Contains Albizia and Nigella to support seasonal immune responses and respiratory function.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet 4 times daily.

Cod Liver Oil: Contains omega-3 fatty acids to support immune response and inflammatory processes.
Suggested Use: 3 softgels per day.

Antronex® : Supports the body's detoxification mechanisms.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet per day.