Embarking on a journey to restore alar ligament health is multifaceted, especially in the context of Craniocervical Instability (CCI). Before diving into advanced treatment options such as the PICL procedure, it’s vital to ensure that the body is well-prepared. At Healthy Posture Club, we specialize in providing an extensive prehabilitation program designed to optimize patients’ physical condition prior to undergoing the PICL procedure, placing an emphasis on posture education. In full disclosure, much of what we have learned in this area is a result of our referral relationship and patient collaboration with Centeno-Schultz Clinic.
Understanding the PICL Procedure
The PICL (Percutaneous Implantation of the Cervical Ligaments) procedure, pioneered by the Centeno-Schultz Clinic, is an innovative regenerative medicine technique. It involves the precise placement of bone marrow concentrate into the alar ligament using image guidance. The objective is to strengthen and fortify the weakened or overstretched ligament, contributing to the stability of the upper cervical spine.
Why Prehabilitation (and Rehabilitation) is Crucial
Prehabilitation is about taking proactive steps to improve your physical health before a procedure or treatment. Healthy Posture Club recognizes the importance of prehabilitation in ensuring that patients are in the best possible physical condition prior to undergoing the PICL procedure.
You cannot improve posture with a few exercises, it takes a system of neutral spine conditioning that addresses all aspects of your daily routine including sleep. The muscles that keep your skull in neutral position on the atlas will never strengthen if you spend most your day in forward head posture. As a result, any procedure to strengthen the ligaments will have limited long-term benefits without pairing it with neutral spine conditioning.
The anatomy of the upper cervical spine is complicated and the relationship between the muscles and ligaments can be confusing. Please watch this video for an illustration that breaks the relationship down in a simple to understand manner.
The Prehabilitation Program at Healthy Posture Club
The Health Posture Club prehab program utilizes a video-on-demand platform to medically guide you through neutral spine based conditioning workouts designed specifically for the unique considerations of those diagnosed with CCI.
Our comprehensive prehabilitation program emphasizes the cultivation of healthy postural habits and includes:
- Individualized Exercise Plans: Tailored plans aim at strengthening the neck and upper back muscles that play a critical role in supporting the cervical spine. This muscle development is vital in creating a stable environment for the ligament post-PICL procedure.
- Postural Education: Prior to undergoing PICL, it’s crucial to understand and integrate healthy postural habits. We coach patients on maintaining optimal alignment, focusing on head and neck positions to alleviate strain on the alar ligaments.
- Flexibility Training: We focus on improving the flexibility of the neck and shoulders to alleviate tension and further prepare the body for the PICL procedure.
- Patient-Centric Recommendations: Each individual’s needs are unique. We provide recommendations and modifications based on each patient’s specific conditions and requirements.
Most physicians performing regenerative medicine offer a rehabilitation program for post-procedure physical therapy. We specialize in digital prehabilitation neutral spine conditioning. We are happy to help you follow your post-procedure rehabilitation protocols if you are unable to access adequate physical therapy services. Your rehabilitation specialist should have special training in the area of regenerative medicine.
The Role of Healthy Posture for Upper Cervical Stability
Central to our prehabilitation program is the establishment of healthy posture habits. Proper posture ensures minimal stress on the alar ligaments and equal distribution of forces, which is vital in supporting the regenerated ligament tissue after the PICL procedure.
A Whole Body Approach to Strengthen the Alar Ligament
By opting for the Healthy Posture Club’s prehabilitation program, patients build a strong foundation that enhances the efficacy of the PICL procedure. This all-encompassing approach ensures that patients not only address the structural issues but also empower themselves with the tools and knowledge needed for an active role in their recovery and long-term well-being. With a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and patient-focused care, Healthy Posture Club is poised to guide patients through their journey to restoring alar ligament health.
Having explored the integral role that the Healthy Posture Club’s prehabilitation program plays in preparing patients for the PICL procedure, the next step is clear: it’s time to take charge of your health. Are you or a loved one considering the PICL procedure or struggling with upper cervical spine instability? Now is the moment to equip yourself with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to foster a successful recovery and sustained well-being.
Program Structure and Costs
The journey to a healthier cervical spine posture starts with purchasing a $50 Posture Screen. An HPC physical therapist will perform 4 movement screenings. If your are unable to get into neutral cervical spine alignment or maintain it during these 4 movement screens he/she will prescribe the Prehab for Regenerative Medicine 8-pack. These 8 digital workout sessions will address all the various aspects of transforming your posture. You will be safely progressed through 6 levels of neutral spine conditioning. You will learn strategies for healthier sitting, sleeping and standing. The total cost of the program is $650.
Milestone You Will Accomplish:
- Week 1 – You will be instructed on a safe functional mobility program focused on restoring your ability to get into neutral spine alignment (NSA)
- Week 2 – you will be able to sit for 10+ minutes in neutral spine alignment, we will coaching you on how use your phone and computer to support upright posture.
- Week 3 – you will be able to stand and walk short durations maintaining NSA.
- Week 4 – you will be able to get in/out of chair, bed and toilet without losing neutral skull alignment on C1. We will explore healthy sleeping strategies.
- Week 5 – you will be able to lift objects off the floor maintaining NSA.
- Week 6 – you will be able to lift object overhead without losing neutral skull positioning on C1.
In Conclusion
Investing in prehab for your upcoming regenerative medicine procedure is a wise decision for anyone seeking long-term relief. Healthy Posture Club’s Prehab program is an effective, safe and convenient way to prepare your body for your upcoming procedure. With expert guidance, structured progression, and focus on safety, this program not only maximizes the potential of regenerative medicine but also positions you for long-term injury management and prevention.
Visit our Prehab for PICL Procedure page to learn more about our unique approach to helping those scheduled for upcoming regenerative medicine procedures condition themselves to get the most out of this investment.