NASAL RELEASE TECHNIQUE
Nasal Release Technique (NRT) is a unique and effective structural technique that adjusts the bones of the skull. This was developed by Dr. J. R. Stober of Portland. The procedure uses a small finger cot affixed to an inflatable device which is inserted into the nasal passages. The balloon inflation presses outward against the cranial bones of the breathing passages and adjusts the sutures of the skull, particularly the sphenoid (hard palate). This ultimately relieves the forces that have gone into the skull by releasing any impactions in the cranial sutures.
NRT Therapy has a multitude of names including—Endonasal Technique, Cranial Facial Release, Nasal Cranial Release, Bilateral Nasal Specific Technique, Functional Cranial Release, and Neurocranial ReStructuring Nasal Specific Technique.
How does the procedure work?
Our body is in constant search for balance. When a concussion or birth trauma occurs, the bones of the skull are impacted by force. When the skull is not in proper alignment, the rest of the body will attempt to compensate by changing the way we move. This can create poor posture, breathing difficulties, chronic pain, and even depression. Nasal Release Technique shifts the bones in better alignment, which optimizes the neurotransmitter activity throughout the Central Nervous System.
What can I expect from a treatment?
Nasal Release Technique is performed using a finger cot affixed to a blood pressure bulb. The finger cot is lubricated, then placed specifically in the nasal cavities (turbinates). The blood pressure bulb inflates the cot, which expands inside the nasal passage. The opposite nostril is lightly compressed to prevent air from escaping. The patient takes a deep breath and holds it. Then the finger cot is gently inflated, making its way into the nasopharynx, causing it to widen. The finger cot is inserted into the lower portion of the nose on both sides, then the middle portion, then the upper portion. It is then repeated in the lower portion to balance the procedure.
The process is not usually painful because only one inflation in the passageways is performed the first time. When this is tolerated, more inflations are indicated. With the procedure, typically pressure is felt in the nose and inside the head. Often, clicks and pops are felt in the bones of the head. It is an interesting experience!
Who can receive NRT treatment?
NRT can be performed and catered for patients of all ages (although can be more challenging for babies and small children due to smaller nasal passages and activity levels). Each patient is screened and an evaluation is performed to determine if NRT is appropriate. Each NRT session builds on the previous one provided there hasn’t been head trauma between treatments.
Indications
• Concussion and other head injuries
• Headaches, head pressure, migraines
• Low energy, Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue
• Muscle spasms, neck and shoulder pain
• Poor concentration and focus
• PTSD
• Sinusitis, sleep apnea, snoring, other breathing and sinus disorders
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• TMJ (mouth, head and jaw pains)
• Vertigo and other balance problems
• Whiplash Syndrome
Symptoms that may benefit from NRT Therapy
• Balance Problems
• Breathing Problems
• Congestion or fullness
• Facial pain/pressure
• Headaches
• Loss of smell
• Nasal obstruction or blockage
• Neck Pain
• Ringing in the Ears
• Snoring or Sleep Apnea
• TMJ
• Types of Sinusitis or sinus congestion
• Vertigo
Dr. Abbey is trained and certified in the Nasal Release Technique. She utilizes this technique along with other approaches to help patients express optimal health and function. To learn more or schedule a consult, contact our office at 216-952-3830 or info@clechiropractic.com.