Chiari Malformation and Upper Cervical Care: A Gentle Approach to Symptom Relief
Chiari Malformation is a structural condition that affects the brainstem and spinal cord, often leading to debilitating symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, neck pain, and balance issues. While surgery may be necessary in severe cases, a growing number of people with Chiari Type I are seeking non-invasive, conservative options for symptom relief—such as Upper Cervical Chiropractic care.
This article explores what Chiari Malformation is, how it affects the nervous system, and how upper cervical adjustments may provide relief by reducing neurological tension and improving cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow.
What Is Chiari Malformation?
Chiari Malformation is a condition in which brain tissue—specifically the cerebellar tonsils—descends into the spinal canal through the foramen magnum (the opening at the base of the skull). This crowding can interfere with normal brainstem and spinal cord function, as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation.
There are several types, but Type I is the most common and often remains undiagnosed until adolescence or adulthood.
Common Symptoms of Chiari I Malformation:
Occipital (back of head) headaches, especially when coughing or straining
Neck pain or stiffness
Dizziness and balance issues
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
Difficulty swallowing or hoarseness
Sleep disturbances or fatigue
How Chiari Malformation Affects the Nervous System
The cerebellum and brainstem are responsible for coordinating balance, posture, breathing, and motor function. When the cerebellar tonsils herniate downward, they may compress:
The brainstem and cranial nerves
The upper cervical spinal cord
CSF flow, contributing to intracranial pressure fluctuations or syringomyelia (fluid-filled cysts within the spinal cord)
Many symptoms of Chiari overlap with those caused by upper cervical spinal misalignment, such as vertigo, head pressure, and neurological dysfunction.
The Role of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
Upper Cervical Chiropractors focus on the top two vertebrae in the neck—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—which sit just beneath the brainstem and cerebellum. Even small misalignments in this area can impact:
CSF flow between the brain and spinal cord
Blood flow via the vertebral arteries
Brainstem and cranial nerve function
Structural tension in the meninges (connective tissue layers around the brain and spinal cord)
Upper cervical adjustments aim to restore normal alignment and balance to the head-neck junction, which may reduce compression and restore more normal function—even in patients with underlying anatomical issues like Chiari.
What the Research Says
A 2016 study published in the Fluids and Barriers of the CNS journal found that altered CSF dynamics are a major factor in Chiari symptoms. Even partial obstructions can lead to intracranial pressure changes, headaches, and neurological issues [Meier et al., 2016].
Dr. Scott Rosa, a chiropractor using advanced upright MRI imaging, has documented improvements in CSF flow and reductions in symptoms in patients with Chiari and similar conditions following upper cervical adjustments [Rosa et al., 2013].
“Correcting misalignment at the craniocervical junction can have a profound effect on cerebrospinal fluid flow, venous drainage, and neural function.”
— Rosa, S., et al., “Craniocervical Junction Realignment and Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow.” 2013.
Clinical reports suggest that upper cervical care may alleviate Chiari-related symptoms like occipital headaches, neck tension, and dizziness by reducing mechanical tension at the brainstem level.
Is Upper Cervical Care a Cure for Chiari?
No. Chiari Malformation is a structural condition, and chiropractic care does not “fix” the descent of the cerebellar tonsils. However, many patients find that addressing secondary issues—like spinal misalignment, tension on neural structures, and CSF flow restriction—reduces symptom severity and frequency.
Upper cervical chiropractic care may also be a supportive option for patients post-surgery (once cleared by their neurosurgeon), helping improve alignment, posture, and neurological stability.
Is Upper Cervical Care Right for You?
If you have been diagnosed with Chiari Malformation Type I and experience chronic headaches, neck pain, dizziness, or brain fog—especially after a fall, head injury, or whiplash—you may benefit from an upper cervical evaluation.
At Rising Tide Chiropractic, we use advanced 3D imaging and precise, gentle techniques to assess and correct misalignments in the upper neck. Every case is unique, and we work collaboratively with your medical team to ensure the best possible care.
References
Meier, T., et al. (2016). Altered cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in Chiari malformation Type I: Insights from advanced imaging techniques. Fluids and Barriers of the CNS, 13(1), 1–10.
Rosa, S. et al. (2013). Craniocervical Junction Realignment and Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow. Various presentations and case series in conjunction with FONAR Upright MRI studies.
Milhorat, T.H., et al. (1999). Chiari I Malformation Redefined: Clinical and Radiographic Findings for 364 Symptomatic Patients. Neurosurgery, 44(5), 1005–1017.
Upper Cervical Research Foundation (UCRF). Case studies on post-concussion and Chiari symptom improvement. Retrieved from www.uppercervicalfoundation.org
