Neurological Control of Nasal Passages and Chiropractic Adjustment for Breathing

Dr. Sten Ekberg, a neurologically based holistic chiropractor, shares a personal observation regarding the collapse of his nasal passage on one side after receiving a dental painkiller. He posits that nasal passages are held open by muscles, which are, in turn, controlled by the brain. This direct brain-muscle connection implies that neurological interference can significantly impact the physical function of the nasal passages, leading to issues like congestion or collapse. The episode highlights the often-overlooked muscular component in maintaining nasal patency, distinguishing it from simple congestion caused by mucus. The painkiller's effect on muscle function demonstrates a direct neurological influence on a seemingly mechanical issue. The core distinction is between a structural/muscular problem versus a purely inflammatory or mucous-based obstruction, emphasizing the brain's role in regulating these muscular actions. Dr. Ekberg suggests that when there is "interference" in the brain-muscle communication pathway, bodily functions, including nasal breathing, can be compromised. He notes that patients frequently report improved breathing after chiropractic adjustments, implying that such adjustments can help restore proper neurological control and muscle function. The practical advice is to consider chiropractic care for issues related to nasal passage clearance, linking it to overall brain and nervous system health. This observation extends beyond just nasal passages, illustrating a broader principle in holistic health: the brain's pervasive control over various bodily tissues and functions. It underscores the chiropractic philosophy that optimizing nervous system function can have far-reaching positive effects on seemingly unrelated physical symptoms. The episode implicitly connects local symptoms (nasal collapse) to systemic neurological regulation, advocating for a holistic approach to health challenges.

"I'm a neurologically based holistic chiropractor"

"my nasal passage has collapsed on the side where I got the painkiller"

"it's muscles that hold open nasal passages"

"brain controls muscles, so brain has a lot to do with nasal passage clearance"

"very often patients will report after an adjustment that they can breathe better"

"brain controls muscles, muscles control tissues and function"

"when there is interference then things don't work as well"

"nasal passages has everything to do with brain and getting adjusted can help"

"Absolutely nothing because muscles are necessary to open up the nasal passages"