WHERE TO START

Knowing where to start when you suspect you, or a loved one, has CCI/AAI can be challenging due to the lack of knowledge of the condition in mainstream medicine. Many have been told by their doctors that nothing is wrong with their neck after a standard MRI or X-ray, although this is rarely enough to make a diagnosis. 

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The first step you should take is finding a practitioner.

• You can find a list of well established CCI knowledgeable practitioners here.

• When you have chosen one, reach out to them to ask what imaging they prefer, this varies. Most practitioners offer this imaging as a service, or is able to refer you to a place that does. You can also find our list of upright MRI machines here.

• Once you have this info, you should consider what sort of consultation you'd like. Some practitioners offer scan reviews, some offer telehealth/remote consultations, and all offer in person consultation.  While seeing a doctor in person is always recommended, it's not always accessible due to finances or health limitation. In that situation you might choose to get the relevant scans at the facility closest to you, and get a remote consult or simply a scan review.

• Keep in mind that most practitioners won't make an official diagnosis or recommendations without an in-person consult, however they can give you an idea of what might be going on, which can be helpful in letting you decide the next step.

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DIAGNOSED - WHAT'S NEXT

Once you're diagnosed or has a suspected diagnosis it's time to decide what management route you want to go.

• There are both traditional and more alternative options available. You can read a short description of the treatment options here.

• If your case is severe, especially if there's signs of neurological/brainstem involvement, you might be recommended surgery, while in mild to moderate cases, conservative management is recommended.