The Hidden Connection Between Your Neck and Your Brain

What if the movement of your neck could influence what happens around your brain and spinal cord? In this video, Dr. Andrew Newell explores the fascinating connection between the neck and brain, focusing on the upper cervical spine, nervous system, dura mater, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the myodural bridge. The small muscles beneath the skull—the suboccipital muscles—do more than help control head and neck movement. Some have connective-tissue attachments to the dura mater, the protective membrane surrounding the spinal cord. This connection is known as the myodural bridge. So why is it there? And could movement of the head and neck influence cerebrospinal fluid flow? We’ll examine research into these questions, including a 2021 study published in Scientific Reports that investigated changes in CSF dynamics around the craniocervical junction following gentle head nodding. In this video, we explore: • The anatomy of the upper cervical spine and craniocervical junction • The myodural bridge and its connection to the dura mater • The role of the suboccipital muscles • What cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) does and how it moves • How head and neck movement may affect CSF dynamics • The relationship between the neck, brain, and nervous system • What this research may mean for headaches, dizziness, brain fog, neck pain, and post-concussion symptoms • What the research does—and does not—tell us about chiropractic adjustments • How Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic approaches the upper cervical spine • Where the evidence ends and speculation begins What does this research actually prove? This is an important distinction. Research showing a relationship between head movement and CSF dynamics does not prove that the myodural bridge is responsible for those changes. It also does not establish that chiropractic adjustments “pump CSF” or that upper cervical chiropractic treats headaches, dizziness, brain fog, or concussion symptoms by changing cerebrospinal fluid flow. Those are questions that require further research. My approach is simple: Ideas, not beliefs. The human body is incredibly complex, and there is still a great deal we don’t understand. Good science means being willing to explore new ideas while also being honest about the limits of the evidence. If you’re interested in upper cervical chiropractic, neck and brain health, neuroscience, spinal biomechanics, cerebrospinal fluid, the nervous system, headaches, dizziness, brain fog, concussion recovery, and the upper cervical spine, subscribe for more evidence-informed videos exploring the science behind the human body. What if your neck is doing more than simply holding your head up? What are we missing? ⸻ This video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. If you have persistent or concerning symptoms, consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.