Chiropractic Health -- Anxiety & Phobia

Anxiety and Phobia

Anxiety disorders include panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias and generalized anxiety disorder. Patients with anxiety disorders suffer from symptoms that are chronic, unremitting and usually grow progressively worse if left untreated.

Tormented by panic attacks, irrational thoughts and fears, compulsive behaviors or rituals, flashbacks, nightmares, or countless frightening physical symptoms, people with anxiety disorders are heavy utilizers of emergency rooms and other medical services. Their work, family and social lives are disrupted, and some even become housebound. Many of our patients with anxiety disorders have co-occurring disorders such as depression, alcohol or drug abuse, or other mental disorders.


How Upper Cervical Care Relates to Anxiety and Phobia

While medical science has not determined the exact cause of anxiety and phobia, recent research has pointed towards a likely head trauma-induced origin for certain cases of anxiety disorders. Evidence supports that trauma (in particular mild concussive injury to the head, neck or upper back) increases the risk of onset of anxiety and phobia. Following the trauma, anxiety disorders can be triggered immediately or can take months or years to develop. The purpose of upper cervical care is to reverse the trauma-induced upper neck injury; thereby reducing irritation to the injured nerves in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).

While many anxiety sufferers recall specific traumas such as head injuries, auto accidents or falls, some do not. An upper cervical examination is necessary in each individual's case to assess whether an upper cervical injury is present and whether benefit from upper cervical care can be achieved.