Understanding Multiple Sclerosis: An Autoimmune Condition of the Central Nervous System

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune condition that primarily affects the central nervous system (CNS). This debilitating disease is characterized by the degeneration of neural tissue, which can be identified through MRI scans. Patients with MS experience a variety of sudden and strange neurological symptoms, such as abnormal sensations in different parts of the body: muscle weakness, dizziness, vertigo, brain fog, and lack of motor coordination.

Note: One of the earliest indicators of multiple sclerosis is blurry vision, as lesions often appear in the brain’s vascular system.

Rethinking Multiple Sclerosis: A Plumbing Issue?

Rather than delving into a myriad of facts about MS as a neurological and autoimmune disorder, it’s insightful to think of it as a plumbing issue. This perspective can help us understand the disease better and explore ways to slow its progression or even heal some of the damage. The first step is to address the nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the process known as glymphatics.

The Blood-Brain Barrier and Glymphatic System

The brain is protected by a boundary of connective tissue cells known as astrocytes, which form the BBB. This membrane ensures that only very selective molecules, such as oxygen, glucose, ions, and water, can pass from the bloodstream into the brain. However, if this system becomes leaky, unwanted substances can infiltrate the brain tissue, leading to cumulative damage over time. Instead of the brain being bathed in clean cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), it ends up in a toxic environment, contributing to neural degeneration.

Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis

1. Leaky Gut Syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome occurs when the tight junctions in the digestive system loosen, which allows substances to enter the bloodstream unchecked. This can spark an autoimmune reaction and is implicated in every known autoimmune condition, including MS. When the immune system starts attacking brain cells as if they were foreign invaders, it leads to neural degeneration. Eliminating inflammatory substances such as gluten, lectins, dairy, and certain proteins can help. Additionally, supplementing with essential nutrients like vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial.

2. Heavy Metal Exposure

Heavy metals are neurotoxic and can damage the BBB. Exposure can occur through industrial pollution, agricultural chemicals, city pollution, and dental amalgams, which contain mercury. Mercury is particularly harmful as it has an affinity for the adrenal glands, thyroid, and brain. Over time, mercury and other heavy metals can accumulate in the body, causing significant damage and potentially setting the stage for autoimmune conditions like MS.

3. Loss of Autophagy

Autophagy is the brain’s process of cleansing debris from the CSF. This process relies on the free flow of the brain’s plumbing system, known as the glymphatic system, which combines CSF flow and venous drainage. Autophagy primarily occurs during sleep, particularly when lying on the back or side. Brain drainage happens through two main pathways: the internal jugular vein and the cerebrospinal venous system. The internal jugular vein collapses when upright, making the cerebrospinal venous system essential for drainage. People with MS often feel better lying down because of improved drainage.

The Connection Between Whiplash Injuries and MS

Certain types of MS are associated with whiplash injuries. Whiplash occurs when the head snaps back and forth, damaging the cervical spine. This damage can narrow the cerebrospinal venous system, hindering drainage and causing fluid to accumulate in the brain. The brain’s veins lack valves, so there is no mechanism to prevent backflow. Over time, debris can accumulate, leading to neurodegenerative damage.

The Role of Neck Health in MS

Research highlights the importance of neck health in MS. Specific forms of healthcare, such as cranial cervical specific care, focus on restoring the normal motion and stability of the upper neck joints. This care can significantly improve CSF and venous drainage from the brain, which can help people with MS. Although damaged neural tissue heals slowly, it is possible to shift MS into remission, reducing damage and promoting the body’s innate healing responses.

Craniocervical Specific Care

Cranial cervical specific care is a chiropractic specialty that does not involve drugs or surgery. It focuses on ensuring the normal motion and alignment of the upper neck joints. Stability is is crucial for proper brain circulation. This care involves advanced diagnostic tests to identify joint damage and achieve stability and normal flow.

Comprehensive Care for Multiple Sclerosis

Managing MS requires a team of qualified specialists. For leaky gut syndrome, working with a naturopathic physician is advisable. If heavy metal exposure is a concern, a naturopath can help, and a holistic dentist should handle amalgam removal. It’s essential to consult with a dentist experienced in this area, as improper removal can exacerbate symptoms.

Additionally, seeking the expertise of an upper cervical chiropractic specialist can address the neck component of MS. Addressing diet, heavy metal exposure, and neck health can help manage MS more effectively and improve the quality of life for those affected.

The Blair technique is a specialized chiropractic approach focusing on the alignment, motion, and stability of the atlas vertebra. This gentle and precise method can help restore normal function at the junction between your head and neck, and promotes overall health.

If you are looking for help with a chiropractor in Spokane, visit our home page more information. To schedule a new patient appointment with our Mead (north Spokane) or South Hill offices, complete a new patient request form here, or call us direct at 509-315-8166.