Rebecca Collinsworth

Category: Professional Insights

  • Vertigo, Massage & Crystals

    Crystals in the ear, specifically in the inner ear, are related to a condition known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Here’s an overview of how these crystals impact vertigo:

    Understanding BPPV and Otoconia

    1. Otoconia:
      • The inner ear contains tiny calcium carbonate crystals called otoconia. These crystals are located in the utricle, part of the vestibular system, which helps maintain balance.
    2. Displacement of Otoconia:
      • BPPV occurs when otoconia become dislodged from the utricle and move into one of the semicircular canals. These canals contain fluid and sense head rotation. When otoconia enter these canals, they disrupt the fluid movement, causing false signals to be sent to the brain about head movement.

    Symptoms of BPPV

    • Vertigo:
      • Sudden, intense episodes of dizziness, often triggered by changes in head position (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up or down).
    • Nausea and Vomiting:
      • The disorienting feeling can cause nausea and sometimes vomiting.
    • Balance Problems:
      • Difficulty maintaining balance, leading to unsteadiness or a feeling of being off-balance.

    Diagnosis and Treatment

    1. Diagnosis:
      • BPPV is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and specific tests like the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, which involves positioning the head in certain ways to trigger vertigo symptoms.
    2. Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers:
      • The most common treatment for BPPV involves a series of head movements designed to move the displaced otoconia back to the utricle where they can no longer cause vertigo. These maneuvers include:
        • Epley Maneuver: A series of specific head and body movements performed by a healthcare provider to guide the crystals back to their proper location.
        • Semont Maneuver: Another technique involving rapid head movements to reposition the otoconia.
    3. Home Exercises:
      • In some cases, patients are taught exercises to perform at home, such as the Brandt-Daroff exercises, which help reduce symptoms over time.
    4. Medications:
      • While not typically necessary for BPPV itself, medications may be prescribed to manage associated symptoms like nausea.

    Prognosis

    • BPPV is generally benign, meaning it is not life-threatening, and many patients experience relief after treatment. However, it can recur, and some people may need repeated treatments.

    Preventive Measures

    • Avoiding Sudden Movements:
      • Being mindful of head movements and avoiding sudden changes in position can help minimize the risk of triggering vertigo episodes.
    • Regular Follow-Up:
      • Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help manage and monitor the condition effectively.

    Understanding the role of ear crystals in vertigo, specifically in BPPV, underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment maneuvers to alleviate symptoms and improve balance.

  • Vertigo and Massage

    Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness often caused by issues in the inner ear, but it can also be influenced by musculoskeletal factors, particularly those involving the neck and upper back muscles. Here’s how muscles can impact vertigo:

    Neck Muscles and Cervicogenic Vertigo

    1. Muscle Tension and Spasms:
      • Tight or spasming neck muscles can compress blood vessels and nerves that run through the cervical spine. This can disrupt normal blood flow to the brain and inner ear, potentially leading to symptoms of vertigo.
      • Muscles like the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and suboccipitals, when tight, can affect balance and proprioception, contributing to a sensation of dizziness or unsteadiness.
    2. Joint Misalignment:
      • Misalignment or restricted movement in the cervical spine can impact the function of the vestibular system (part of the inner ear that controls balance) through proprioceptive dysfunction. This can be exacerbated by poor posture or repetitive strain.
    3. Proprioceptive Input:
      • Muscles and joints in the neck provide critical proprioceptive input to the brain about the position and movement of the head. Dysfunction in these areas can lead to incorrect information being sent to the brain, resulting in dizziness or vertigo.

    Common Muscular Conditions Leading to Vertigo

    1. Whiplash:
      • Trauma such as whiplash can strain the neck muscles and ligaments, leading to cervicogenic vertigo. This condition often includes symptoms like headaches, neck pain, and a feeling of unsteadiness or dizziness.
    2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction:
      • The muscles around the jaw and neck are closely connected. TMJ dysfunction can lead to muscle tension in the neck and upper back, potentially causing vertigo symptoms.

    Treatment and Management

    1. Manual Therapy:
      • Techniques such as massage therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy can help relieve muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and restore proper proprioceptive function, thus alleviating vertigo symptoms.
    2. Exercise and Stretching:
      • Regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the neck and upper back can help maintain muscle balance and prevent excessive tension that could lead to vertigo.
    3. Postural Correction:
      • Improving posture through ergonomic adjustments and body awareness practices can reduce strain on the neck muscles and improve overall balance.
    4. Stress Management:
      • Since stress can exacerbate muscle tension, incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be beneficial.

    Understanding the muscular impact on vertigo emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach in managing this condition, addressing both the musculoskeletal and vestibular systems to provide comprehensive relief.

  • Exploring the Link Between the Piriformis Muscle and Neck Pain

    Managing Neck Pain Linked to the Piriformis Muscle

    Today we focus on managing neck pain that originates from an often-overlooked source: an overactive piriformis muscle. Neck pain linked to this deep-seated muscle in the buttock region can be perplexing, but understanding its role in the broader kinetic chain sheds light on effective treatment strategies.

    Managing neck pain related to the piriformis muscle requires a multifaceted approach. Stretching exercises are crucial for relieving tension in the piriformis and associated structures, while strengthening exercises help stabilize the muscle and prevent future overactivity. Manual therapy, including massage and other bodywork techniques, plays a vital role in correcting muscle imbalances and facilitating realignment. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments can enhance these interventions, helping individuals maintain optimal muscle function and posture in daily activities.

    As an Orthopedic Bodywork Specialist, I delve into the root causes of symptoms to provide relief that extends beyond the surface. By addressing the piriformis muscle’s role in the kinetic chain, my comprehensive treatment plans lead to significant improvements in pain and mobility. This approach not only alleviates immediate discomfort but also fosters long-term health and functional benefits.

    Explore how a tailored combination of therapies can transform your approach to managing neck pain and enhance your overall quality of life.

  • Exploring the Link Between the Piriformis Muscle and Neck Pain

    The Role of the Piriformis Muscle

    Today’s topic focuses on the crucial role of the piriformis muscle in stabilizing the pelvis and the broader implications for body alignment and health. The piriformis is a small muscle located deep in the buttock region, playing a significant role in the stability of the pelvis and lower body. However, when this muscle becomes overactive, it can lead to pelvic misalignment—a condition that may not only cause discomfort locally but also trigger compensatory changes up the spine.

    This misalignment can ripple through the body, impacting spinal alignment and potentially leading to neck pain and a reduced range of motion. Such a scenario underscores the interconnected nature of our musculoskeletal system, where a problem in one area can influence conditions in another. As an Orthopedic Bodywork Specialist, I emphasize the importance of addressing such foundational issues to ensure comprehensive care and prevention of further complications.

    By focusing on the piriformis muscle and its effects on pelvic alignment, I am able to craft targeted interventions. These treatments aim not only to relieve the immediate symptoms but also to rectify the underlying imbalances that contribute to the issue. This approach not only helps in alleviating neck pain and restoring range of motion but also stabilizes the entire kinetic chain, promoting overall health and well-being.

    Addressing key muscular functions like those of the piriformis can lead to significant and lasting improvements in physical health and mobility.

  • Exploring the Link Between the Piriformis Muscle and Neck Pain

    Understanding the Kinetic Chain

    Neck pain often starts in places you would never expect.
    One small but powerful muscle deep within the hip—the piriformis—can quietly set off a chain reaction of tension that travels all the way to your neck and shoulders.
    Today, you will discover how this interconnected relationship unfolds and why understanding the kinetic chain could be the missing key to lasting relief.

    When the piriformis muscle becomes overactive, it can cause unexpected symptoms, such as neck pain, due to its position within this interconnected system.

    As an Orthopedic Bodywork Specialist, I apply my knowledge of the kinetic chain to thoroughly assess and treat the underlying causes of discomfort. When clients come to me with neck pain, my evaluations often lead me to examine other potential sources of trouble, like the piriformis muscle. By addressing the primary issue in the piriformis, I can effectively alleviate the related neck pain, offering a comprehensive approach that fosters lasting relief and optimal bodily function.

    My treatments are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, thanks to my expertise in identifying and addressing the specific pathways of pain. This personalized approach not only addresses immediate symptoms but also promotes a balanced and pain-free state by ensuring proper alignment and functionality throughout the kinetic chain.

    Understanding your body’s interconnected dynamics can lead to significant improvements in your health and well-being.

  • How an Overactive Piriformis Affects Neck Range of Motion and Pain

    Understanding the Connection

    The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, is integral to stabilizing the pelvis. When this muscle becomes overactive or tight, it can lead to a cascade of issues throughout the body, including neck pain and reduced neck range of motion. This phenomenon is rooted in the interconnected nature of our musculoskeletal system, often referred to as kinetic chains.

    The Impact of the Piriformis Muscle

    1. Pelvic Stability and Spinal Alignment: The piriformis muscle helps maintain pelvic stability. When overactive, it can cause pelvic misalignment. This misalignment can travel up the spine, resulting in compensatory postural changes that affect the cervical spine (neck).
    2. Muscle Compensation: An overactive piriformis can lead to compensatory muscle tension in the neck and shoulders as these areas work harder to maintain balance and posture. This additional tension can cause muscle strain and contribute to neck pain.
    3. Nerve Irritation: The sciatic nerve, which runs near the piriformis muscle, can become irritated when the muscle is tight. This irritation can send pain signals to various parts of the body, including the neck, exacerbating discomfort and limiting range of motion​ (MedShun)​​ (SPARCMed)​.

    Addressing the Issue

    To alleviate the impact of an overactive piriformis on neck pain and range of motion, consider the following approaches:

    1. Stretching and Strengthening: Incorporate exercises that stretch and strengthen the piriformis, core, and surrounding muscles. This can help reduce tension and improve overall alignment.
    2. Manual Therapy: Seeking the help of a physical therapist or chiropractor for manual therapy can help release muscle tension and correct spinal alignment.
    3. Posture Correction: Maintaining proper posture throughout the day can prevent compensatory muscle strain. Ergonomic adjustments at work and during daily activities are crucial.

    Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing prolonged sitting, improving ergonomics, and incorporating regular physical activity can help maintain muscle balance and reduce pain​ (MedShun)​​ (SpringerLink)​.

  • Neck Pain and Overactive Piriformis

    An overactive piriformis can significantly impact the neck’s range of motion and contribute to neck pain through a series of interconnected biomechanical and neuromuscular pathways. Here’s a detailed explanation:

    Biomechanical Chain Reaction

    1. Pelvic Stability and Alignment: The piriformis muscle plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis. An overactive or tight piriformis can cause an imbalance in the pelvis, leading to misalignment or tilting.
    2. Spinal Alignment: Pelvic misalignment can cause compensatory changes throughout the spine to maintain balance and upright posture. This often leads to an abnormal curvature of the spine (such as increased lumbar lordosis or thoracic kyphosis), which can affect the alignment and movement patterns in the cervical spine (neck).
    3. Muscle Compensation: As the body compensates for the misalignment caused by the overactive piriformis, other muscle groups, including those in the neck and shoulders, may become overactive or tense to help stabilize the head and maintain proper posture. This can lead to muscle imbalances and tension in the neck.

    Neuromuscular Pathways

    1. Nervous System Interactions: The sciatic nerve, which can be irritated by an overactive piriformis, shares pathways with nerves that innervate the muscles of the spine and neck. Chronic irritation or dysfunction in one part of the body can lead to referred pain or increased sensitivity in other areas, including the neck.
    2. Myofascial Connections: The body’s fascia, a connective tissue network, links muscles from the toes to the head. Tightness or restrictions in the fascia around the piriformis can transmit tension through the fascial system, leading to restrictions and pain in the neck.

    Impacts on Neck Range of Motion and Pain

    1. Decreased Range of Motion: The compensatory muscle tension and altered spinal alignment due to an overactive piriformis can restrict the natural movement of the neck, leading to a decreased range of motion. Individuals may find it difficult to turn their head fully or tilt their neck without discomfort.
    2. Neck Pain: The increased muscle tension and poor alignment can lead to chronic neck pain. This pain can be due to muscle strain, joint misalignment, or even nerve irritation. The ongoing compensatory mechanisms further exacerbate the discomfort.

    Management and Treatment

    1. Addressing the Piriformis: Releasing and stretching the piriformis muscle through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and proper stretching techniques can help alleviate the pelvic misalignment and subsequent compensatory changes.
    2. Postural Correction: Focusing on proper posture and alignment through corrective exercises and ergonomic adjustments can reduce the strain on the neck.
    3. Comprehensive Approach: Combining physical therapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy can address both the symptoms and the underlying causes, promoting better overall alignment and function.

    By understanding the interconnectedness of the body’s musculoskeletal system, addressing an overactive piriformis can significantly improve neck range of motion and reduce pain, enhancing overall mobility and comfort.

  • Air Purifiers for CIRS: Pros and Cons of Austin Air HealthMate Plus vs Airpura UV600-W

    For individuals managing Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), improving indoor air quality is an important supportive step. However, it is critical to note that air purifiers alone are not a solution. Proper cleaning, moisture control, and professional remediation must come first. Air purifiers can then help reduce ongoing exposure and maintain a cleaner indoor environment.

    This post compares two air purifiers that may outperform the HealthPro Plus XE in settings where mold spores, mold fragments, VOCs, and mycotoxins are a concern.

    Austin Air HealthMate Plus

    This unit features:

    • Medical-grade HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, including mold spores
    • 15 pounds of activated carbon and zeolite with potassium iodide, designed for chemically sensitive individuals
    • Manufacturer states it “removes up to 99.97% of airborne mold spores, as well as mycotoxins”

    Pros:

    • Strong filtration for mold spores and particles
    • High volume of carbon to adsorb VOCs and chemicals
    • Simple design and low maintenance schedule
    • Trusted by many chemically sensitive users

    Cons:

    • No UV or additional technology to address live organisms
    • Large and heavy, may not fit smaller spaces easily
    • Best for rooms with active airflow (no obstruction)

    Airpura UV600-W

    This unit features:

    • True HEPA filter for fine particulate removal
    • UV-C purification to address mold, viruses, and bacteria
    • Industrial-grade build quality

    Pros:

    • UV-C light targets and deactivates biological contaminants including mold and bacteria
    • Effective multi-stage filtration for comprehensive cleaning
    • Durable construction for large or challenging environments

    Cons:

    • UV-C bulbs require periodic replacement
    • Louder operation than some competitors
    • Larger footprint may not be ideal for small residential rooms

    Key reminder for CIRS patients

    Even the best air purifiers cannot replace the need for thorough remediation, moisture management, and cleaning protocols. These machines are designed to help support a cleaner environment after remediation, not to allow avoidance of remediation altogether.

    If your home has water damage or mold, a full inspection and professional remediation should come first. Once that is complete, a high-quality air purifier can help reduce remaining particulates and chemicals, supporting your ongoing wellness.

    Take action

    If you are considering an air purifier as part of your wellness plan, talk with your care team to ensure it matches your space, needs, and situation. Begin with remediation and moisture control, then use a quality machine as ongoing support for cleaner air.

  • Creating a Safe Home Environment as Part of Your Wellness Support

    If you are living with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), your environment plays an essential role in your healing journey. Even small changes can help your body shift from defense mode into rest, repair, and balance. For readers managing ADHD, CPTSD, or executive function disorder, this post provides simple, digestible steps you can take without overwhelm.

    Why your home environment matters

    Your body responds to your surroundings all day and night. When your space contains hidden mold or water damage, your immune system can stay on alert, making it harder to regulate energy, sleep, focus, mood, and digestion. When you reduce these triggers, you give your body space to heal and return to a calmer baseline.

    Gentle, practical steps to support your environment

    You do not have to change everything at once. Start small with these easy-to-follow steps:

    • Declutter one small area at a time: Choose one drawer, one shelf, or one corner. Reducing clutter helps improve airflow and makes cleaning easier.
    • Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter: This removes small particles and reduces dust that can hold onto mold fragments.
    • Check for visible moisture regularly: Look at windowsills, under sinks, and near appliances weekly. Write it down or set a recurring reminder.
    • Run a dehumidifier in damp spaces: Basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms can benefit from keeping humidity below 50 percent.
    • Wash soft fabrics often: Curtains, bedding, and upholstery can collect dust and mold spores over time.

    These small changes reduce the environmental burden gently, making your space feel lighter and safer without needing a major renovation right away.

    Tools to help with executive function

    • Use sticky notes or phone reminders to break tasks into tiny steps.
    • Create a simple checklist such as “Check under sink” or “Run dehumidifier.”
    • Celebrate when you finish one area, no matter how small—it counts.

    Why this helps your wellness journey

    Improving your home environment is one of the easiest ways to support your body’s natural healing processes. Even small improvements can make your home feel calmer, safer, and more supportive as you continue your wellness work.

    Take action

    In the next post we will include an educational call to action on when and why to consult a CIRS-literate professional and how to keep your wellness journey moving forward.

  • When and Why to Consult a CIRS-Literate Professional

    If you have been working on improving your home environment and still feel stuck in symptoms, it may be time to bring in additional support. A CIRS-literate professional understands the complexities of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome and how the environment interacts with health. This post offers gentle guidance on when to seek expert help and why it can make a meaningful difference.

    Why a CIRS-literate professional matters

    Not all health professionals or inspectors understand the unique needs of people with CIRS. A CIRS-literate professional is trained to recognize subtle environmental risks, interpret complex reports like ERMI and HERTSMI-2 accurately, and work alongside your care team to guide next steps that match your healing goals.

    When to consult a professional

    Here are some simple signs it may be time to reach out:

    • You have made changes in your home but symptoms remain or return
    • You feel overwhelmed interpreting your environmental test results
    • You want help planning remediation or future testing
    • You suspect your home has a history of water damage you cannot fully evaluate alone
    • You are considering legal action, insurance claims, or landlord disputes and need proper documentation from licensed professionals

    How to make this step easier for readers with ADHD, CPTSD, and executive function disorder

    • Choose one professional to contact first and schedule a brief call or email inquiry
    • Ask clear questions such as Do you work with clients managing CIRS and Do you provide written next steps
    • Keep a short list of contacts and notes about their responses so you feel organized

    Why this step helps your wellness journey

    A CIRS-literate professional can reduce confusion, save you time, and help you make decisions with confidence. Their guidance ensures you are not missing hidden details that could be contributing to ongoing symptoms. Working with the right expert helps your wellness plan feel clearer, calmer, and more achievable.

    Thank you for reading this series. You are not alone on this path. Small steps and thoughtful guidance can help you create a safe, supportive environment so you feel more empowered in your wellness journey. Reach out anytime if you have questions or want help getting started.