The Role of the Craniocervical Junction in Neurological and Neurodegenerative Conditions

Dr. Chris Slininger DC, DCCJP • December 27, 2024

A Research Article by Dr. Michael Flanagan

The Role of the Craniocervical Junction in Neurological and Neurodegenerative Conditions


In his pivotal paper, The Role of the Craniocervical Junction in Craniospinal Hydrodynamics and Neurodegenerative Conditions, Dr. Michael Flanagan explores the critical impact of the craniocervical junction (CCJ) on craniospinal hydrodynamics and its potential role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. Dr. Flanagan, a renowned chiropractic neurologist and author of The Downside of Upright Posture, delves into the anatomical and physiological complexities of the CCJ and how malformations or misalignments in this region can disrupt cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow and blood dynamics, leading to significant neurological consequences.


This article underscores the CCJ’s role as a “choke point” for blood and CSF flow between the brain and spinal canal. Disruptions at this junction can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain (chronic ischemia), oxidative damage to nerve tissues inside the brain (oxidative stress), and a slowing of blood flow exiting the brain (venous congestion). As Dr. Flanagan emphasizes, understanding and addressing CCJ-related dysfunctions may provide new avenues for prevention and treatment.


Structural Challenges at the Craniocervical Junction


The CCJ, which includes the atlas (C1), axis (C2), and surrounding tissues, is central to maintaining healthy craniospinal hydrodynamics. However, structural anomalies such as Chiari malformations, basilar invagination, or ligament laxity can obstruct blood and CSF flow, creating pathological pressure gradients. These disruptions can exacerbate symptoms of neurological conditions, particularly in upright posture, which places additional strain on the CCJ.


As Dr. Flanagan notes, “upright posture and motion of the cervical spine compound the strains and deformation of blood and CSF pathways of the CCJ,” which is why individuals with structural challenges in this area often experience debilitating symptoms like dizziness, brain fog, and chronic pain.


Impacts on Brain Health and Neurodegeneration


The consequences of CCJ misalignments extend beyond mechanical dysfunctions. Faulty craniospinal hydrodynamics can lead to reduced CSF turnover, impairing the brain’s glymphatic system, which is responsible for clearing metabolic waste and toxins. As Dr. Flanagan explains, this sluggish flow may contribute to the buildup of neurotoxic substances such as beta-amyloid and tau proteins, hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.


Additionally, venous insufficiency caused by CCJ blockages can lead to hydrocephalus—commonly known as "water on the brain"—a condition marked by excessive CSF accumulation, and related complications such as ventriculomegaly. Chronic ischemia, oxidative stress, and brain atrophy often follow, exacerbating the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.


Diagnostic and Therapeutic Insights


Advanced diagnostic tools such as upright MRI and cine MRI provide crucial insights into CCJ alignment and craniospinal hydrodynamics, helping clinicians identify structural anomalies and guide appropriate interventions. Both manual therapies, like upper cervical chiropractic care, and surgical interventions can play a role in restoring proper flow dynamics and alleviating symptoms.


Dr. Flanagan’s work highlights the importance of these interventions, stating that “manipulation of blood and CSF flow may help to restore or improve faulty craniospinal hydrodynamics in certain cases and decrease the prevalence, progression, and severity of neurodegenerative conditions.”


Read the Full Article


For a deeper dive into the science and findings discussed here, we encourage you to read Dr. Michael Flanagan’s complete paper, The Role of the Craniocervical Junction in Craniospinal Hydrodynamics and Neurodegenerative Conditions. Access the full article here.

How We Help


At Cerebral Chiropractic Center in St. Petersburg, FL, we specialize in addressing the complex issues associated with the craniocervical junction through upper cervical chiropractic care. Our work focuses on restoring the alignment and integrity of the CCJ to optimize cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, improve brain health, and alleviate symptoms of debilitating conditions.


Whether you’re experiencing migraines, balance issues, or symptoms of a neurodegenerative disease, a consultation with one of our expert doctors can help determine if you are a candidate for care. Consultations are available both in person and virtually via Zoom. Visit CerebralChiropractic.com to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward improved neurological health.


<<Back to The White Papers

More Articles

Craniofacial Changes after Combined Atlas-Orthogonal and Biomimetic Oral Appliance Therapy

By Dr. Chris Slininger, DC, DCCJP • December 30, 2024
Dr. G. Dave Singh, Dr. Chris Chapman, and Dr. Myles Preble demonstrated that combining upper cervical chiropractic care with biomimetic oral appliance therapy can significantly improve craniofacial alignment. The study highlights how integrating these therapies enhances structural stability and supports neurological health through a multidisciplinary approach.

Effect of Atlas Vertebrae Realignment in Subjects with Migraine: An Observational Pilot Study

By Dr. Chris Slininger, DC, DCCJP • December 30, 2024
Dr. Woodfield and his colleagues conducted a groundbreaking study showing how atlas realignment may reduce migraine days and improve quality of life. The research highlights the potential of precise upper cervical care to address migraines at their root, offering insights into a non-invasive approach that could transform migraine management.

Headache and Migraine Breakthrough

By Dr. Chris Slininger, DC, DCCJP • June 25, 2024
Pain, Throbbing, Aching, Pressure, and Tension In The Head There has been a breakthrough in understanding why headaches and migraines occur and how to fix them. More studies have shown that problems in the upper neck play a big role in causing headaches. A specialized method of correcting the upper neck can reduce or eliminate the symptoms without drugs or injections. Headaches are not normal even though they are common. The amount of times a person gets a headache does not make it normal. It actually just means the problem is more severe and there is usually a root cause to the problem that has not been uncovered yet. Most people do not know the root cause of their headaches. This leaves many people simply managing symptoms with medication or just coping with the pain. Currently, the most common treatment for headaches is prescription drugs, and treatment like Botox injections is on the rise, even though it only provides temporary relief. In recent years, there has been a greater understanding of one of the more common root causes of headaches and migraines. Headache and migraine pain often originate from nerves in your upper neck. More specifically, it is in an area called the brainstem. (See figure 1) This brainstem is the transition point between the brain and the spinal cord. It is located at the base of your skull into the upper part of the neck. Inside of this brainstem is a group of nerves called the trigeminal nucleus, which is the pain center for the head, face, and neck. If this trigeminal nucleus of the brainstem gets irritated, it causes the head, and sometimes the face, to hurt. One of the most common causes of this type of nerve interference is an upper neck misalignment. An upper neck misalignment occurs when the bones of the upper neck get out of place from a fall, concussion , car accident, or some sort of head or neck injury. Unfortunately, not many doctors, chiropractors, or neurologists are trained to evaluate this specific problem, leaving many people suffering from headaches for years. The key to addressing these types of headaches and migraines is to find the root of the problem instead of masking the symptoms. If a person is found to have upper neck nerve irritation from a misalignment, then they would be a candidate for our specialized type of care used to realign the upper neck with a gentle correction. Once the upper neck has been properly realigned, the bones no longer irritate the nerves and the headaches begin to subside. This specialized type of care is called Upper Cervical Care . With so many people suffering from headaches, there is good news. This specialized treatment is available the Cerebral Chiropractic Center in St. Petersburg, FL, which opens February 2024. Dr. Chris Slininger, the founder of Cerebral Chiropractic Center, is a craniocervical specialist who has been practicing in the Tampa Bay Area for the last 10 years. Upper Cervical Care is a powerful, precise, and gentle approach to long term relief. If you are serious about recovery, schedule a free consultation. You will meet with Dr. Slininger to learn more about headaches and migraines and to see if you could be a candidate for treatment.
Share by: