Reset Holistic

12/01/2026

ANATOMY OF THE SCALENE MUSCLES ✍️

✅ Scalene muscles are three pairs of deep neck muscles (anterior, middle, posterior) running from the cervical vertebrae to the first two ribs, crucial for accessory breathing (lifting ribs), neck flexion, rotation, and lateral tilting, and providing stability to the neck. They are vital for respiration, especially forced breathing, and their tight grouping with the brachial plexus and subclavian artery makes them clinically significant in conditions like Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS).

✅ Anatomy
Location: Lateral (side) of the neck, deep to the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Origin: Transverse processes of cervical vertebrae (C3-C7).
Insertion: First and second ribs.
Layers: Anterior, Middle (largest), and Posterior, with the Middle being between the other two.

11/01/2026

⭐️ UNDERSTANDING THE MYODURAL BRIDGE

How an Overlooked Connection Between Your Neck, Dura & CSF Flow Can Trigger Severe Headaches —

And How We Address It at The Functional Neurology Center

Many people struggle with chronic headaches, neck pain, dizziness, pressure, visual strain, or post-concussion symptoms without realizing the root cause may lie in a powerful — but rarely discussed — anatomical structure at the base of the skull.

This structure is the Myodural Bridge (MDB).

Recent anatomical, histological, and imaging research (including Frontiers in Neuroscience, Journal of Anatomy, and multiple PMC studies) confirms that the MDB forms a direct physical connection between:
• Deep suboccipital muscles (RCP minor, RCP major, and OCI)
• The cervical spinal dura mater
• The posterior atlanto-occipital membrane and cranio-cervical junction structures
• The region responsible for cerebrospinal fluid movement and brainstem stability

This connection means that muscle tension in your upper cervical spine can literally pull on the dura, influence CSF flow mechanics, and alter pain and sensory processing in the brainstem.

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🔬 WHY THE MYODURAL BRIDGE MATTERS

(What Science Shows)

1️⃣ The MDB stabilizes the dura and prevents it from folding or buckling during movement.

Excessive tightness or asymmetry in the suboccipital muscles can create abnormal dural strain → resulting in headaches that radiate to the temples, eyes, or forehead.

2️⃣ The MDB assists cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation.

Studies using pressure measurements and anatomical modeling show that the MDB acts like a small but important “pump” for CSF.
When suboccipital muscles spasm or become dysfunctional, CSF flow can be reduced or become irregular.
Patients often describe:
• pressure at the base of the skull
• brain fog
• dizziness
• headaches when bending forward
• worsening symptoms with Valsalva or position changes

This exactly matches the dysfunction we see in MDB-related cases.

3️⃣ The MDB plays a role in proprioception and cervico-ocular integration.

This connection helps coordinate:
• head and eye movement
• balance and inner-ear reflexes
• cervical spine alignment
• brainstem sensory processing

Dysfunction in the MDB often accompanies:
✔️ chronic dizziness
✔️ motion intolerance
✔️ convergence strain
✔️ vestibular mismatch
✔️ autonomic symptoms
✔️ neck instability
✔️ headaches after concussion or whiplash

4️⃣ Trauma strongly affects the MDB.

Whiplash, sports impacts, repetitive strain, poor posture, or even long-term muscle guarding can overstress the MDB, leading to chronic recurring symptoms that do NOT respond to standard care.

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🧠 OUR ADVANCED APPROACH AT THE FNC

(Addressing the MDB, CSF Flow, Upper Cervical Mechanics & Neurological Integration)

At The Functional Neurology Center, we evaluate the full brain–eye–vestibular–neck connection and design a treatment plan specific to the patient’s neurological findings.

To improve MDB function and reduce headache symptoms, we use a multi-system protocol including:

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🔵 1. Ciatrix CSF Flow Optimization Technology

Ciatrix technology allows us to influence:
• CSF circulation
• pressure gradients
• glymphatic clearance
• cervical-medullary motion
• neurovascular fluid dynamics

Many patients report:
• improved clarity
• reduced pressure
• better sleep
• less dizziness
• fewer “pressure headaches”

Ciatrix is especially effective in cases where MDB tightness is contributing to impaired CSF flow.

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🔵 2. ARPwave Direct-Current Neuromodulation

We use ARPwave to target deep cervical muscle tension and neuromuscular “protective loops” that lock the suboccipital muscles into chronic guarding.

ARPwave:
• reduces chronic muscle tone
• restores mobility
• decreases dural tension indirectly
• retrains cervical motor control
• supports neurological recovery after concussion or whiplash

The goal is to normalize the neuromuscular tone pulling on the MDB.

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🔵 3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Using Erchonia Class 2 cold lasers, we support:
• tissue healing
• improved microcirculation
• anti-inflammatory signaling
• mitochondrial recovery of the deep cervical tissues

Laser therapy reduces swelling and irritation in the upper cervical region where MDB tension is most commonly found.

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🔵 4. Low-Force Upper Cervical Manual Therapies

We use precise, gentle techniques — NOT high-force manipulation — to restore proper upper-cervical biomechanics.

This helps:
• reduce strain on the MDB
• improve cranio-cervical alignment
• restore normal dural movement
• support healthy CSF flow
• reduce referral pain into head and face

Many patients describe an immediate sense of decompression or relief in the suboccipital region.

⸻

🔵 5. PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Therapy

PEMF helps regulate cellular repair, inflammation, and nervous system recovery.
For MDB-related dysfunction, PEMF supports:
• tissue regeneration
• improved circulation
• reduced nociceptive firing
• relaxation of hypertonic cervical tissues

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🔵 6. Visual–Vestibular–Cervical Rehabilitation (When Needed)

Some MDB cases involve downstream effects on:
• eye movements
• balance reflexes
• vestibulo-ocular pathways
• autonomic systems

We include targeted neuro-rehab when testing shows deeper sensory-motor integration deficits.

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⭐️ WHO BENEFITS FROM OUR MDB-FOCUSED APPROACH?

Patients with:
✔️ chronic cervicogenic headaches
✔️ “pressure headaches” at the skull base
✔️ migraines with neck tension
✔️ dizziness or motion sensitivity
✔️ post-concussion syndrome
✔️ brain fog
✔️ atlas/upper cervical instability
✔️ whiplash
✔️ visual strain
✔️ difficulty tolerating head movement
✔️ headaches made worse by posture or screens

If typical migraine medication hasn’t helped — the Myodural Bridge may be the missing link.

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📞 READY TO GET HELP?

The MDB is one of the most overlooked contributors to chronic headaches, dizziness, and persistent post-concussion symptoms.
At The Functional Neurology Center, we combine cutting-edge technology with high-level neurological assessment to address the root cause — not just manage symptoms.

📍 The Functional Neurology Center – Minnetonka, MN
📞 612-223-8590
📧 info@theFNC.com
🌐 theFNC.com

The suspensive myodural bridge complex at the cisterna magna. Posterolateral illustration of the craniocervical junction with magnified sagittal and axial views. The myodural bridges are seen connecting the cisterna magna dura to the suboccipital muscles (asterisk). (Original illustration by Kendall Lane, BFA, Department of Medical Illustration, Warren Albert Medical School, Brown University).

11/01/2026

11/01/2026

💫 Fibromyalgia & Lymph Drainage:

What If Your Pain Has a Pathway Out?

For those living with fibromyalgia, the pain is more than just physical—it’s deep, widespread, and often invisible to the outside world. Muscles ache, fatigue is relentless, sleep feels unrefreshing, and even gentle touch can feel like pressure. And yet… bloodwork looks “normal.” Scans come back “clear.” The phrase “we don’t know why” echoes far too often.

But what if part of the answer lies in a system that no one is looking at?

👉 The lymphatic system.

🧠 What’s Really Going On in Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia isn’t “just in your head.” Research has linked it to:
• Central sensitization (your brain’s pain switch stuck on “high”)
• Chronic low-grade inflammation
• Poor detoxification and mitochondrial dysfunction
• Fascial restriction and fluid stagnation

In other words: the body isn’t draining, calming, or clearing like it should.
And that’s exactly where the lymphatic system comes in.

🌿 The Lymphatic Link

Your lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that removes waste, calms inflammation, regulates fluid balance, and supports immunity.

But in fibromyalgia:
• Lymph flow may be sluggish, leading to toxic build-up in tissues
• Fascia (which holds lymph vessels) may be tight and inflamed
• Muscles may feel heavy, sore, or swollen, not just from pain—but from fluid that isn’t moving
• Brain fog and fatigue may be tied to poor drainage in the neck and glymphatic system

When this system slows down, pain can increase, tissues become stiff, and the body feels stuck.

✨ How Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Can Help

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) isn’t just for swelling or surgery—it can be profoundly supportive for those with fibro.
It helps to:

✅ Stimulate lymph flow and reduce fluid stagnation
✅ Calm the nervous system (shifting from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest)
✅ Soften fascia and reduce pressure in painful areas
✅ Promote detox and improve energy
✅ Support sleep by easing inflammation around the brain and spinal cord
✅ Reduce hypersensitivity in the skin and muscles

Even just a few sessions can create shifts in how the body feels, processes stress, and manages pain.

🧘‍♀️ What Fibro Warriors Say After Lymph Therapy:

“It feels like my body can finally exhale.”
“The pressure in my legs and back isn’t crushing anymore.”
“For the first time in months, I actually slept.”
“It’s like a fog lifted from my head.”

🌺 Gentle Is Powerful

MLD is not invasive. It’s not painful. It doesn’t push your body—it invites it to flow again. For fibro clients, it’s one of the few therapies that gives without taking energy away.

It’s not a cure. But for many, it’s a crucial part of their healing journey.

💚 In a World That Overstimulates — Lymphatic Therapy Regulates.

If you live with fibromyalgia, don’t give up hope.
Your body isn’t failing you. It’s fighting every single day.
And sometimes, all it needs is for someone to help it drain, release, and reset.

🍃🌿Appointments available to Book Online www.rosewoodhealthandwellbeing.com
📞07851403770

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health regimen. #

11/01/2026

The scapular push up targets two critical for shoulder health muscle groups, serratus anterior and rhomboids.

Start in a plank position and keep your arms completely straight. The movement must come from your scapula, not your elbows. Push your shoulder blades apart raising your rib cage toward the ceiling. This activates your serratus anterior, which wraps around your ribcage and stabilizes your shoulder blades.

Now squeeze your shoulder blades together, letting your chest sink between them. This moves your rhomboids between elongated and shortened positions. Most people have rhomboids stuck in one spot from sitting and training through the full range builds strength at every length.

Perform 10 to 15 controlled reps and your shoulders will thank you

09/01/2026

👣 The Foot: A Map of the Body
Understanding Reflexology
This illustration represents foot reflexology, a traditional wellness practice that suggests different areas of the foot are connected to organs and systems of the body.
🧠 What the Map Shows
Each zone of the foot is commonly associated with areas such as:
Brain & neck
Lungs & heart
Liver & stomach
Pancreas & intestines
Bladder & pelvis
Sciatic nerves
Reflexology is often used to promote: ✔ Relaxation
✔ Stress relief
✔ Body awareness
✔ Overall well-being
⚠️ Important Note
🩺 Reflexology is not a medical treatment
It does not replace professional medical care, diagnosis, or therapy.
Any pain, illness, or health concern should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
🌿 Why People Use Reflexology
✔ Gentle and non-invasive
✔ Helps people relax and unwind
✔ Encourages mindful self-care
👣 Your feet carry you every day—taking care of them is part of taking care of yourself.

06/01/2026

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05/01/2026

THE SHOULDER LIGAMENTS ✍️

Shoulder ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that stabilize the shoulder joint, connecting bones like the humerus (arm bone) to the scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle (collarbone).

The ligaments include the glenohumeral ligaments (superior, middle, inferior) that reinforce the joint capsule, the coracohumeral ligament, coracoacromial ligament, and coracoclavicular ligaments (trapezoid & conoid).

They prevent excessive movement, keep the joint in place, and allow for smooth motion, but can get stretched or torn in injuries like sprains, leading to pain and instability.

03/01/2026

🔵 The Trigeminal System, Neck Pain & Vestibular Integration

Why We Call the Trigeminal Nerve “Vagus 2.0” at The Functional Neurology Center

The trigeminal system (cranial nerve V) is one of the most powerful sensory networks in the entire nervous system—linking the face, jaw, eyes, dura, upper cervical spine, and deep brainstem centers that regulate pain, autonomic tone, balance, and head–eye control.

When this system becomes irritated or under-regulated—after concussion, whiplash, TMJ dysfunction, upper cervical strain, or chronic inflammation—it can create a cascade of neck pain, dizziness, visual strain, imbalance, facial pressure, headaches, and autonomic dysfunction.

At theFNC, we love integrating the trigeminal system into care because it acts like a master regulator of the brainstem… which is why we call it:

🧠✨ Vagus 2.0

A fast, powerful access point for autonomic calming, sensory integration, and neuro-modulation.

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🔷 WHY THE TRIGEMINAL SYSTEM MATTERS FOR NECK PAIN

The trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) and the upper cervical spine (C1–C3) share overlapping circuitry within the trigeminocervical complex.
This means:
• Irritation in the neck can activate the trigeminal system
• Irritation in the jaw/face/TMJ can activate the neck
• Both systems converge on pain processing pathways that project into brainstem vestibular nuclei

This is why patients with chronic neck pain often also have:
✔ Facial pressure
✔ TMJ tightness
✔ Light sensitivity
✔ Headaches
✔ Dizziness & unsteadiness
✔ Difficulty turning their head

The linkage is anatomical, neurological, and reciprocal.

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🔷 HOW THE TRIGEMINAL SYSTEM CONNECTS TO THE VESTIBULAR SYSTEM

The trigeminal nucleus sends dense projections to:
• The vestibular nuclei
• The reticular formation
• The superior colliculus (eye-head integration)
• The cerebellum (nodulus, flocculus, vermis)

These pathways directly influence:
🔹 Balance
🔹 Gaze stability
🔹 Eye movement accuracy
🔹 Postural tone
🔹 Autonomic responses (nausea, heart rate, anxiety sensation)

Research in post-concussion cases shows that trigeminal dysregulation can worsen dizziness, head pressure, neck pain, photophobia, and sensory overload.
(Reference: Renga 2021)

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🔷 ARPWAVE & TRIGEMINAL NEURO-MODULATION

At the FNC, we use ARPwave direct-current neuro-modulation to stimulate the trigeminal system for:
• Decreasing cervical and TMJ muscle hyper-activity
• Calming trigeminocervical nuclei
• Improving head and neck proprioception
• Reducing autonomic overdrive
• Enhancing vestibular responsiveness
• Improving visual-vestibular integration
• Accelerating recovery after concussion or whiplash

Because ARPwave uses direct current that never dips below zero, we can target one-way ionic flow, allowing more precise neuromodulation of trigeminal afferents.

This helps patients stabilize their gaze, move their neck without symptoms, and reduce those stubborn trigeminal-driven headaches or dizziness.

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🔷 WHY WE CALL IT VAGUS 2.0

Like the vagus nerve, the trigeminal system heavily influences:
✔ Autonomic tone
✔ Pain modulation
✔ Heart rate variability
✔ Brainstem integration
✔ Emotional reactivity
✔ Sensory filtering

But unlike the vagus, trigeminal stimulation is:
⚡ Immediate
⚡ High-gain
⚡ Multi-sensory
⚡ Directly connected to vestibular and cervical nuclei

It gives us a faster, more targeted access point into the autonomic and sensory-motor systems—especially in complex vestibular, concussion, and cervical cases.

⸻

🔵 At theFNC

We combine:
• Upper cervical motor control
• Trigeminal and TMJ integration
• Vestibular and oculomotor rehab
• ARPwave neuromodulation
• Postural & autonomic retraining
• Cervical proprioception
• Laser & PEMF
• Sensory-motor coordination strategies

…to create a comprehensive approach for complex neck pain, dizziness, and visual-vestibular dysfunction.

If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic neck pain, dizziness, TMJ dysfunction, or post-concussive symptoms, our team can help you regain stability and function.

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Reference:
Renga, Vijay. (2021). Clinical Evaluation and Treatment of Patients with Postconcussion Syndrome. Neurology Research International. 2021.

TheFNC.com
DC DACNB
612 223 8590 to schedule

03/01/2026

Case study: neck pain and tingling down arm

I often hear, “That’s weird,” in my treatments….

During a full body assessment, we found that if we altered the contralateral ankle with a wedge, the complaint pain practically vanished.😯 …to the confusion of the client. Fortunately, this image portrays it perfectly.

Time for movement training because we could adjust and try and hammer that neck into place, but just like in architecture, we don’t always see foundational issues at the foundation, but up in the corners.