At Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we treat post-concussion syndrome (PCS).
Almost 3 million Americans suffer a concussion every year. It’s estimated that 15% of those people experience prolonged symptoms. These persistent symptoms that last more than a few weeks means you have PCS.
More and more research is being published that supports upper cervical chiropractic care as the best treatment for after a concussion — either to treat or prevent PCS.
Post-concussion syndrome can develop after you suffer a mild head injury. Normal concussion symptoms should resolve in a few weeks.
You are considered to have PCS if your concussion symptoms last longer than 6 weeks.
Not only is PCS an issue in sports medicine — since concussions are common in contact sports — but anyone can develop PCS after a concussion.
After an auto accident or sports injury, everyday people may need upper cervical chiropractic treatment to treat or prevent PCS.
Why do some people develop PCS after a concussion, yet others do not? There is no definitive answer, but science has given us clues.
A misalignment in the upper cervical spine, particularly at the atlas and axis vertebrae (C1 and C2), can disrupt the body’s natural balance and lead to significant discomfort. This misalignment can result from everyday activities like poor posture during computer work or more acute injuries such as whiplash from an accident.
Spinal issues like degenerative changes, arthritis, or disc herniations also contribute to the severity of neck pain. According to Dr. Ty’s blog on cervical spine health, proper alignment is critical for minimizing inflammation, maintaining healthy nerve function, and reducing the risk of chronic conditions developing.
Our upper cervical care is specifically designed to target the misalignments at the top of the spine. This region is highly sensitive, and even a slight misalignment can have widespread effects, including neck pain, headaches, and neurological symptoms. By using advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques, we can identify the specific areas of misalignment and provide targeted adjustments.
At Denver Upper Cervical, we believe in addressing the underlying cause of neck pain, not just masking the symptoms. Our upper cervical chiropractic approach focuses on restoring proper alignment in the cervical spine. Using precise, gentle adjustments, we aim to realign the vertebrae and relieve pressure on the nerves, which often leads to immediate pain reduction and improved mobility.
We may recommend complementary therapies, such as spinal decompression, to relieve pressure on the discs and nerves. This gentle, non-invasive therapy has been effective for many patients suffering from neck pain caused by bulging or herniated discs. Additionally, posture correction, lifestyle adjustments, and stretching exercises can help maintain long-term neck health.
As mentioned in our article on neck adjustments, upper cervical chiropractic care avoids twisting or popping, offering a gentle, yet effective treatment that aligns the spine and allows the body to heal naturally. Many patients report long-lasting relief from neck pain after receiving upper cervical care at Denver Upper Cervical.
At Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic, our team proudly uses high-quality chiropractic services to treat the root cause of post-concussion syndrome: upper cervical spinal misalignment. Upper cervical misalignment causes post-injury headaches and can make your concussion symptoms last longer than the usual recovery time. Our chiropractic center provides chiropractic treatment that aligns the upper cervical spine, which can resolve PCS.
Dr. Ty Carzoli prescribes non-contact aerobic exercise physical therapy in conjunction with chiropractic care. It seems counterintuitive, but research shows that exercise is a promising therapy for PCS. Chiropractic offices aren’t just for neck pain or lower back pain management. Most chiropractors emphasize overall health and wellness — one reason they succeed where conventional healthcare may fail. Upper cervical chiropractic care is shown with peer-reviewed research to treat PCS.
The benefits of upper cervical chiropractic care are still being discovered. But science has revealed numerous health benefits already.
Various studies support upper cervical chiropractic care as a treatment for the following:







I strongly recommend visiting DUCC if you're suffering from stubborn neck pain. After injuring my neck in a ski accident four years ago, I tried a handful of potential "solutions" to mitigate the pain, but nothing worked. I felt pain when driving, running, and certainly skiing. Within a couple months, Dr. Ty's unique therapeutic approach allowed me to ski all day with no discomfort, and I've continued to receive treatment for over ten months now. Certainly the best investment I've ever made in my health. I hope it works for you, too!!
Dr. Ty and Zyle are AMAZING! So glad I got referred to them and I would happily refer anyone else. If you are having any back pain - vertigo symptoms - or even just want to understand more about your alignment and health, treat yourself and visit Dr. Ty!!!
Dr. Carzoli and his awesome team (Hi Zyle!) saved me not just from dire back pain, but another Dr's misdiagnosis. I arrived having needed a cane due to the first back injury of my life, and was prepared for a future of reduced athletic output and pain management. Imagine being told you can never run, or ski, or dance again - I was in a dire state. Quickly, Dr. Carzoli gave me much better assessments - including even a second opinion virtually, on the spot, and following up with the original mis-diagnosis office. His treatment was specific, with terrific exposition and explainers for each exercise and adjustment. Furthermore, his team's care helped me prepare myself for preventing another injury, and better understand the holistic health towards root issues. I've tossed the pain meds and am now active again. I cannot say thanks enough!!
I cannot emphasis enough how much of an impact seeing Ty has had on my life. I'm facing I disk replacement surgery and when I sought out Ty's help, I was desperate. My left arm had gone totally numb and I had lost most of the muscle that just carrying in grocery's would tire my arm out. I was panicking, because I have been doing everything I can to stay as healthy as possible until the inevitable day comes that I have to have the surgery. He has been able to get the numbness to subside, and I even have strength back in my arm. I just got this birthday treat from Ty. Little things like these are what separate the decent providers from that ones that actually care about their patients and their health. Highly recommended. Don't even think twice, just give him a call and set up an appointment, you'll be glad you did.
Denver, Colorado chiropractor Dr. Ty Carzoli has helped hundreds of people find headache relief through chiropractic adjustments, patient education, and individualized treatment plans.
Whether you experienced a car accident, sports injury, or just chronic pain, visit Dr. Ty and his team at Denver Upper Cervical Chiropractic. We reserve Fridays for traveling patients outside the Denver area.
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