Multiple sclerosis has a variety of symptoms, some of which are not unique just to MS patients. Therefore, diagnosing multiple sclerosis can be somewhat difficult. Sometimes, a person gets misdiagnosed because the process is much more complex than taking a blood test to confirm or deny the presence of MS. What tests are involved, and what do they show?
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Images are taken of the brain and spinal cord. They can allow doctors to see signs of MS that an x-ray or other tests cannot.
- Evoked potential testing: Brain waves are recorded via electrodes that are placed on the patient’s head. This evaluates the nerves response time to stimulation. It looks for abnormalities in the spinal cord, optic nerves of the eyes, and neural abnormalities.
- Spinal tap (also called lumbar puncture): A needle is inserted between two lumbar bones in order to obtain cerebrospinal fluid. Most people with MS will have abnormal results.
- Neurological examination: This test examines thinking or emotional problems through a number of questions asked by the examiner. This shows the depth of damage done by MS.
What to Do When the Diagnosis is Multiple Sclerosis
It is a very daunting outcome to get a diagnosis of MS. Now one must make major life decisions about seeking care. At Health Edge Family Spinal Care, we have seen a strong link between head and neck injuries and multiple sclerosis. It is an important first step for a person to have us evaluate his or her neck upon getting a diagnosis of MS.
Often, because of a head or neck injury, a person has a small misalignment in the upper neck vertebrae. This can put pressure on the brainstem, slowing down the cerebrospinal fluid and causing the body to communicate improperly. This may be the reason for a person having symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Once corrected, symptoms may lessen or go away entirely.
To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, just click the button below:
Want to hear from real people like you? Check out our patient success stories.
Dr. Armen Manoucherian of Health Edge Family Spinal Care in Glendale, California is a Glendale Chiropractor and Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). He has helped many children and adults find natural relief in Glendale, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Pasadena, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Burbank. He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems. More information can be found on his website at http://www.healthedgela.com