The Connection Between Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Cervical Spine Instability

At O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic, we specialize in addressing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) through a Functional Medicine approach that identifies and treats the root cause of symptoms rather than just managing them. Over the years, we have encountered numerous patients suffering from MCAS alongside persistent neck pain and cervical spine instability. While neck pain is often dismissed as a secondary symptom, we investigate its role as a potential trigger for mast cell overactivation and histamine-related issues.

Many individuals independently explore upper cervical instability and cervical spine instability—not merely as additional symptoms, but as potential root causes of their complex health issues. This leads to a crucial question: which comes first—autonomic nervous system dysfunction or immune-mediated allergies? At a minimum, we know they are interconnected. Elevated histamine levels and mast cell activation stimulate the autonomic nervous system, while autonomic dysfunction increases the likelihood of immune overactivation.

Patients often report discovering cranial cervical instability as a possible cause of their prolonged illness, including diagnoses of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and MCAS. A common denominator among them is chronic neck pain and cervical misalignment. While it is generally seen as a consequence of their condition, it is seldom investigated as a potential cause.

How Cervical Instability Affects MCAS and Histamine Regulation

The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in the regulation of mast cell activity and histamine release. When vagal nerve sensory afferents are disrupted due to cervical spine instability, the body's homeostatic balance fails, leading to widespread immune dysregulation. This condition, known as cervicovagopathy, disrupts gut barrier function, respiratory function, and systemic histamine regulation—all of which are key factors in MCAS.

Therapeutic Modalities for Cervical Instability and MCAS

At O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic, Dr. Janell Matz, a physiological therapeutic expert, utilizes advanced therapeutic modalities to restore nervous system function, regulate mast cell activity, and address cervical instability.

Dr. Matz employs a combination of targeted therapies, including:

Upper cervical manual techniques and alignment therapies: Restoring cervical stability to alleviate nerve compression and autonomic dysfunction.
Cold laser therapy and therapeutic ultrasound: Reducing upper cervical inflammation, muscle spasms, and irritation of the vagus nerve.
Acupuncture: Calming histamine reactions, reducing muscle spasms, and regulating nervous system activity.
qEEG Neurofeedback: Optimizing brainwave patterns to improve nervous system regulation and vagal tone.
Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM): Supporting cellular healing, reducing inflammation, and enhancing autonomic nervous system function.

The Functional Medicine Approach for MCAS

Dr. Shannon O'Keefe, a Functional Medicine and Internal Diagnosis specialist, takes an in-depth and highly personalized approach to diagnosing and treating MCAS and associated conditions. She performs:

A detailed health history and symptom analysis to identify patterns of mast cell dysfunction and histamine intolerance.
Comprehensive lab testing to assess immune function, inflammation markers, and autonomic nervous system imbalances.
Nutritional guidance to minimize histamine triggers and inflammatory foods.
A customized treatment plan that restores gut health, supports the nervous system, and reduces mast cell overactivity.

Optimizing MCAS Treatment with a Comprehensive Approach

Our integrative treatment plan focuses on:

Stabilizing the cervical spine to alleviate nerve compression and restore proper brain-body communication.
Enhancing vagal nerve function to regulate mast cell activity and histamine production.
Improving structural alignment and muscle support to prevent recurrent instability.
Reducing systemic inflammation by addressing histamine overactivity and immune dysfunction.
Restoring optimal neurological function to mitigate MCAS, POTS, and related conditions.

The Link Between MCAS, POTS, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)

Emerging research suggests that MCAS, POTS, and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) may form a disease cluster. Many patients with MCAS also experience POTS symptoms, connective tissue disorders, and nervous system dysregulation. Common overlapping symptoms include:

Gastrointestinal distress: IBS, bloating, nausea, diarrhea
Cardiovascular issues: Hypotension, tachycardia, fainting
Neurological symptoms: Migraines, dizziness, neuropathy
Chronic pain, fatigue, and joint instability

Restoring Cervical Stability to Improve MCAS Symptoms

At O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic, we emphasize the importance of stabilizing the cervical spine to help mitigate MCAS symptoms. Patients with EDS and POTS frequently exhibit upper cervical instability, which contributes to vagal dysfunction and mast cell overactivity.

Our holistic treatment approach includes:

Structural rehabilitation to correct cervical misalignments and support nervous system balance.
Targeted dietary modifications to reduce histamine sensitivity and inflammatory responses.
Vagal nerve stimulation therapies to enhance parasympathetic function and immune regulation.

Why Choose O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic for MCAS Treatment?

We specialize in treating MCAS, cervical instability, and nervous system dysfunction using a root-cause Functional Medicine approach. Our clinic stands apart due to our multidisciplinary, non-invasive therapies that work together to restore immune balance, nervous system function, and structural integrity. Whether you suffer from chronic inflammation, histamine intolerance, or unresolved mast cell activation, we tailor a treatment plan to help you achieve lasting relief.

Conclusion

MCAS is a complex, multifaceted condition that is often intertwined with autonomic dysfunction, histamine intolerance, and structural instability. At O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic, we combine Functional Medicine, advanced diagnostics, and innovative therapeutic interventions to identify and treat the root cause. By addressing cervical spine instability, vagus nerve dysfunction, and immune dysregulation, we provide our patients with a comprehensive, long-term path to healing.

If you're struggling with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, histamine intolerance, or chronic inflammation, contact O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic today to explore how our holistic, science-backed therapies can support your recovery.

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