Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do this program if I’m using chemical denervation injections, such as Botox, Myobloc, Dysport or Xeomin?
Yes, you can. Most of our clients are on such injections when they begin the program. The upside is that it minimizes both spasms and pain and so makes it easier for you to do the exercises and to travel if you are an in-house client. The downside is that it tends to make you a bit numb so that it’s more difficult to monitor your body’s reaction to the exercises, but I feel the advantages outweigh that disadvantage.
Can I do this program if I’m on other meds?
Yes you can, and we encourage you to always confer with your medical professional regarding when to cut back on your meds as this natural program begins to take effect. Please see our Related Links page for the list of No-No medications!
If I’m in pain, do I have to do all the exercises?
No. You are simply here to learn and receive encouragement, and you can do that lying on the floor if need be. We tailor the program to each client’s ability and comfort level, however you always baby-step your way into the program. Less is more..
How does your program compare to traditional Physical Therapy?
ST is sometimes included in a Physical Therapist’s curriculum during their training, however, it’s easier to comprehend what ST’rs have to endure and to know what is helpful and what is harmful if you have actually suffered with the condition. Some PT techniques that “work” for normal people often are not helpful for those with ST but then again much of Physical Therapy is helpful. So much depends on the therapist.
Do most Massage Therapists understand ST?
Generally they also have not been trained to work on ST’rs, and again, some of the techniques they use with normal clients are not always appropriate for ST’rs, but massage in general is wonderfully helpful if you have ST. You may request our free massage letter written by S.T.R.C. Board member and LMT, Reese Myra Murphy. She has developed a massage specifically for ST. Email us to request the letter. You may then share this letter with your Massage Therapist. Also, see our Related Links page on this site; the first thing you will see is a short video. The last 5 or 6 minutes is a nice massage demo by Reese. Reese has also published a book on Toritocllis Massage with DVD. see info at torticollismassage.com
What are the treatment choices for those with S.T.?
Various prescription and over-the-counter drugs, Botox and surgery (specifically Selective Denervation and Deep Brain Stimulation). All of these carry risks and side effects. We frequently get calls from ST’rs who have had either Selective Denervation or DBS (or both) who still need help overcoming their symptoms. Some of our clients have also tried other modalities such as chiropractic, acupuncture, biofeedback, traditional PT and massage therapy. Traditional crack and pop chiropractic will often worsen S.T. Each person needs to examine the options and make a decision that will be the most effective in the long term. Our philosophy is that it’s important to choose a treatment that will support a recovery and not simply cover symptoms, and a treatment that is healthy, risk-free and that works in harmony with the body’s desire to heal itself.
Do you treat those who have had corrective surgery?
Yes we do, but we require a release in writing from your Doctor, to do this program. However, we prefer to enroll clients before they have resorted to surgery. Our past experience has indicated that it is more difficult to reach a state of ongoing recovery once there has been corrective surgery.
What percentage of your clients actually recover?
That is hard to specifically determine, because some clients do not stay in touch, however what I’ve observed over the years is that, for the most part, those who dedicate themselves to the program and are determined and consistent do come into an ongoing recovery, that they then maintain by simply making this program a lifestyle. I often compare this reprogramming of the body to learning a new sport or a new musical instrument. How many people who take music lessons get good enough to perform? Those who practice every day. The brain needs time to learn to work with the body, and it takes many months to elongate the muscles and reorder posture to the point where the brain and body recognize the new normal as normal. You still have ST, but it can be driven into dormancy so that you can lead a normal life, free of drugs and Botox. We also have clients who give up and quit the program and so don’t achieve their goal. You have to be stubborn and keep at it until you get results. The irony is that once you are into recovery and maintain that, you will be in better health than some of your friends who never had ST, because you’ve been forced to exercise and take good care of yourself on every level.
Should I take the Long Distance Course or come to the Clinic in person?
We originally established the Long Distance Course for those overseas who could not come all the way to the U.S. for treatment, however many people now choose the Long Distance Course due to the cost savings. We have many clients on the course who are doing well, but you will gain more from the program if we see you in person and have time to work with you one-on-one.
Do your clients stay at the clinic?
No they don’t. Once your application is in, we will email you a list of hotels/motels close by where we will do free pick-up if you have not rented a car. You may also access the free Taos Visitor’s Guide here: https://taos.org/plan-your-trip/visitors-guide/
Can I stay in touch with you after I leave Taos?
Yes you can and we encourage it! There is no additional cost for ongoing counseling. Those who stay in close touch via phone and email tend to do better in the recovery process. There are no dumb questions, and both I and our nutritional counselor are at your beckon call.
How far is the Albuquerque Airport (the Sunport) from the clinic?
It’s a two and a half hour drive north. You may rent a car at the airport or take a shuttle to Taos. Here is a long page with all shuttle information: https://www.skitaos.com/discover-taos/getting-here You will see this gives info. on the Taos Skli Valley but also info. on the town of Taos as well.
Can my husband/wife/friend attend the clinic with me?
Yes, and we encourage that! We will teach your spouse or friend how to do the massage, and it’s very helpful to have them more fully understand what you are going through as an ST’r. There is no extra charge for their luncheons at the clinic.
May I bring my small children or baby or a dog to the clinic?
We do not offer a nursery or baby sitting. A well behaved dog is welcome.
I have special diet needs (vegetarian, diabetic, etc.). Can you accommodate those needs for the luncheon meals?
Yes we can. There is a place on the application to list special needs, and we will accommodate those needs into menu planning.
Will I have to be on some strict diet in order to achieve recovery?
No, you can eat a normal diet with few restrictions. We simply give you guidelines to help you help your body to be more receptive to the recovery process.
Do I need to bring my Obusforme?
That is up to you. It’s certainly helpful for traveling, but we have Obusformes here for your daily use while at the clinic.
Is there much to do after the clinic each day while in Taos?
Yes! This is a favorite tourist destination, and there are many wonderful attractions and activities. Taos is the home of the famous Taos Indian Purblo and should be on your to-do list. Also see our famous Gorge Bridge (our version of the Grand Cnyon) and just beyond that the world famous earthship community where you can tour an earthship. https://taos.org/what-to-do/landmark-sites/earthship-biotecture/ Taos is also home to many art galleries and great retaurants.
To view a short 12 minute video introduction to the Clinic, please visit our Related Links page.
