Why Upper Cervical and TMJ Treatment Should Be Combined in Cervicogenic Headache Management by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Cervicogenic headache (CGH) typically originates from dysfunctions in the upper cervical spine (C0–C3), presenting as occipital and suboccipital pain. However, in many clinical cases, upper cervical treatment alone does not provide complete or lasting relief . This often indicates an overlooked component— temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction . Neurological Link: The Trigeminocervical Nucleus Complex (TCC) The Trigemino-Cervical Nucleus Complex (TCC) is a brainstem region where afferent sensory input from the upper cervical spinal nerves (C1–C3) and the trigeminal nerve converge . Nociceptive signals from the TMJ and masticatory muscles (such as the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles) enter the brainstem via the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve (CN V) and project to the TCC. Si...
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Numbness in the Face and Hand – Neurological Insights into Integrated Upper Cervical and TMJ Treatment by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul A patient recently visited Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic with complaints of persistent numbness in the right side of the face and right hand lasting over a year. Despite having undergone a brain MRI at a university hospital , no significant abnormalities were found. The patient also tried acupuncture therapy , but there was no noticeable improvement. In such cases, it is essential to look beyond structural abnormalities in the brain and consider the overall functional balance of the nervous system . Treatment Approach: Integrated Care for the Upper Cervical Spine and TMJ Upon functional assessment, we observed misalignment of the upper cervical spine (C1–C2) as well as muscle tension and asymmetry around the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) . We implemented a combined approach, in...
Hip Joint Pain Often Mistaken for a Herniated Disc – What If the Groin Hurts? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul When people experience pain in the lower back or leg, they often suspect a herniated disc. However, in many cases, the actual source of the pain may be the hip joint , not the spine. When Groin Pain Could Be from the Hip Joint If you are experiencing the following symptoms, it may be time to consider a hip joint issue rather than a spinal one: Pain in the inner groin Discomfort when standing or after walking Pain during stair climbing Pain or stiffness when standing up from a seated position A sense of leg length discrepancy or limping Unlike herniated disc-related pain, which typically affects the buttocks or back of the leg, hip joint-related pain is more commonly felt deep in the groin . Why Is It Often Misdiagnosed as a Disc Problem? Pain originating from the hip can radiate to the front of the...
Symptoms Related to Counter Rotation of the Upper Cervical Spine (C1, C2) by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Importance of the Upper Cervical Spine The upper cervical spine—composed of the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2)—plays a crucial role in head movement and overall postural balance. This region is closely connected to the central nervous system, and misalignment in this area can lead to a variety of symptoms througout the body. One common issue is counter rotation , where C1 and C2 rotate in opposite directions. This type of misalignment is often identified through advanced imaging such as CBCT and may impact both nerve function and blood flow around the brainstem. What Is Counter Rotation? Under normal conditions, C1 and C2 work together to allow smooth and stable head movement. However, due to poor posture, trauma, or muscle imbalances, these vertebrae may rotate in opposite directions—this is referred to as counter rotation...
Can a Herniated Lumbar Disc Be Naturally Resorbed? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Hello, this is Dr. Cheolho Son from Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic. When patients hear they have a herniated lumbar disc, many immediately worry that surgery is inevitable. However, clinical experience and scientific studies show that some disc herniations can shrink or be naturally resorbed over time , even without surgery. In this article, I’d like to explain how this happens and introduce several non-surgical treatment options that may support recovery. 🧬 How Can a Herniated Disc Be Naturally Resorbed? When the nucleus pulposus (the inner core of the disc) escapes through the annulus fibrosus and comes into contact with surrounding tissues, the immune system recognizes it as a foreign substance. This immune reaction involves: Macrophage infiltration → Immune cells digest and remove the extruded disc material through phagocyto...
Why the Cervicothoracic Junction Must Be Addressed When Treating Upper Cervical Dysfunction by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Upper cervical spine dysfunction—particularly involving the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—rarely exists in isolation. To ensure complete clinical resolution and prevent recurrence, it is essential to examine and, if necessary, treat the Cervicothoracic Junction (CTJ), particularly the C7–T1 segments , which serve as a critical transitional zone between the mobile cervical spine and the more stable thoracic spine. 1. Anatomical and Biomechanical Continuity The CTJ forms a structural and functional bridge between the neck and thorax. It plays a vital role in force transmission and segmental mobility. About 50% of neck rotation occurs at C1-C2, but the rest is distributed across the lower cervical spine and CTJ. Restrictions at the CTJ can alter upper cervical biomechanics, leading to compensatory strain or ...
Does Having Calcific Tendinitis Always Cause Symptoms? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Many people feel concerned when they hear, “You have calcific tendinitis,” after an X-ray or shoulder examination. The idea of calcium deposits in a tendon may sound alarming, and some may wonder if surgery is necessary. But does the presence of calcific tendinitis always mean you’ll experience pain or other symptoms? Not necessarily. Calcific tendinitis refers to the buildup of calcium deposits in the tendons of the shoulder, most commonly the rotator cuff. It is often discovered during imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds. Interestingly, some people have these calcium deposits without any noticeable symptoms. In fact, it is not uncommon for calcific tendinitis to be found incidentally during imaging for unrelated issues. On the other hand, if the calcium deposit undergoes sudden changes or triggers inflammation, it can cause signif...