Barre' - Lieou Syndrome

BARRE' - LIEOU SYNDROME (Cervicocranial Sympathetic Syndrome): Responds Well to Chiropractic Care.

Let's see how:

The above graphic generally shows the nerves in the neck and how they innervate structures in the head. This explains how the BL syndrome can be so pervasive with a whiplash to the human neck.

This syndrome is seen less commonly than individual lesions, nevertheless, it happens often enough to warrant comment here. The "syndrome" consists  of three or more of the following: Headaches, Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, ocular problems. In this syndrome, symptoms are most commonly secondary to C3 to C4 nerve root sleeve irritation. About 75% of patients tested with have C4 segmental  hypoesthesia; about 68% will have distrubances of touch, pain, and temperature sensations and many will have bilateral symptoms.

Root sleeve defects at C3 to C4 that irritate the sympathetics cause a combination of headaches, dizziness, tinnitus and ocular symptoms, primarily seen with rear-end collisions.

Chiropractic manipulation of the cervical spine can often reduce the irritation going on that is irritating the nerve root sleeves in the first place. If you have had a rear-end collision, try and see a local chiropractor for help with your pain and symptoms, especially the ones listed on this page.

Source: Nordhoff LS, "Motor Vehicle Collision Injuries," Aspen Pub., 1996.

Dr. Haberstroh is a Boston Chiropractor and a Somerville Chiropractor.