POTS vs. Concussions: Different Labels, Same Possible Cause?

Dr. Kyle Wilgus
Jun 24
3 min read

Vertigo and Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

POTS vs. Concussions: Different Labels, Same Possible Cause?

How Upper Cervical Care Helps Restore Brainstem Function and Neurological Balance

Have you been diagnosed with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) or experienced a concussion, only to be left with more questions than answers?

Both conditions are complex. Both affect your nervous system. And both can leave you feeling dismissed, frustrated, or even hopeless—especially when you’ve seen multiple doctors, done all the tests, and are still searching for relief.

But what if the real issue lies in your neck, at the exact point where your brain and body connect?

POTS vs. Concussions: Different Labels, Same Possible Cause?

Let’s explore the similarities and differences between POTS and post-concussion symptoms—and why upper cervical care may be the missing piece in your recovery.

Understanding POTS: The Basics

POTS is a form of dysautonomia—a disorder of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It’s often diagnosed when a person’s heart rate increases significantly upon standing, causing symptoms like:

Lightheadedness or fainting
Racing heartbeat
Fatigue or brain fog
Nausea and digestive issues
Temperature regulation problems
Anxiety or palpitations

The root issue? A nervous system that’s out of sync, especially the part that should automatically regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and circulation.

Concussions: More Than Just a Head Injury

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)—but don’t let the word “mild” fool you. Even subtle concussions can disrupt brain function and cause lingering symptoms:

Headaches and visual disturbances
Sensitivity to light or noise
Dizziness or nausea
Mood swings or memory issues
Sleep disturbances
Balance and coordination problems

These issues don’t just come from the brain itself—they’re often the result of how the brainstem and upper cervical spine were affected during the injury.

POTS vs. Concussions: Different Labels, Same Possible Cause?

The Surprising Overlap Between POTS and Concussions

While POTS and concussions are often viewed as separate conditions, they share a common thread: Dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system—especially near the brainstem.

And where is the brainstem located?

Right at the top of your neck, protected by two small but critical vertebrae: the atlas (C1) and axis (C2).

When the Upper Neck Is Misaligned

A misalignment in the upper cervical spine (often caused by trauma, whiplash, or even subtle head injuries) can:

Place pressure on the brainstem
Disrupt blood flow to the brain
Interfere with cranial nerves that regulate heart rate, digestion, and balance
Create a state of neurologic chaos that mimics POTS or worsens concussion symptoms

This is why many patients feel like something is still “off” even when MRIs, blood work, or cardiology exams come back normal. The root cause may not be showing up on traditional tests because the issue is functional, not structural—until you look at the upper neck.

What Most Professionals Miss

Patients with POTS or post-concussion syndrome often bounce between:

Cardiologists
Neurologists
ENTs
Physical therapists
Psychologists

Each specialist runs their set of tests. You might be offered medications to control symptoms, hydration protocols, or balance therapy. But if no one has examined your upper cervical spine, you may be missing the most critical piece.

Upper Cervical Care: A Different Approach

Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized, gentle, and highly precise approach that focuses solely on the alignment and function of the top two bones in the neck.

Using advanced assessments like:

Infrared Thermography — a neurological spinal exam to assess nervous system function
NeckCare Assessments — a functional evaluation of movement and structural neck integrity
Cone Beam CT Imaging — a precise 3D analysis of the upper cervical spine

We create a custom correction plan designed to remove interference from the nervous system and restore structural integrity, brainstem function, and neurological balance.

Many patients with POTS-like symptoms or unresolved concussion effects have found relief not by chasing symptoms, but by correcting the communication system that runs everything.

You’re Not Broken—Your Nervous System May Just Need Help

If you’ve been told “everything looks normal” but you still don’t feel normal, it may be time to look at the one area that often goes unexamined.

Upper cervical care doesn’t treat POTS or concussions directly—it helps restore the conditions for healing by removing interference from the most vital part of your nervous system.

Take the next step in your health journey.

Find an upper cervical doctor in your area and schedule a consultation today!

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