Dysautonomia &
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
What is Dysautonomia
Dysautonomia is a broad term for conditions that disrupt the autonomic nervous system (ANS)—the system that automatically controls functions like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, temperature regulation, and breathing. Its primary role is to maintain balance (homeostasis) in the body. When this system doesn’t function properly, it can affect multiple organ systems and lead to a wide range of symptoms.
Dysautonomia is not a single diagnosis, but an umbrella term for autonomic disorders, sometimes called autonomic dysfunction. It’s estimated to affect over 70 million people worldwide and is often considered an “invisible illness,” as many patients appear healthy despite significant daily challenges.
Most Common Types of Dysautonomia
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Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A condition where heart rate rises abnormally when moving to a standing position.
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Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS): A form of fainting triggered by a sudden drop in blood pressure, also called vasovagal syncope.
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Orthostatic Hypotension (OH): A noticeable decrease in blood pressure upon standing.
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Multiple System Atrophy (MSA): A rare, progressive disorder that affects multiple systems in the body.
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Familial Dysautonomia: An inherited condition that impairs nervous system function.
What is POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)?
POTS is a form of dysautonomia, meaning the autonomic nervous system—which regulates heart rate, blood pressure, circulation, digestion, and temperature—is not functioning properly. It’s defined by an excessive increase in heart rate when moving from lying or sitting to standing, without a drop in blood pressure, reflecting impaired autonomic control and circulation.
POTS can significantly impact daily life and is often underdiagnosed due to its wide range of symptoms and overlap with other conditions. It may develop after viral illness, concussion or traumatic brain injury, or prolonged physical stress, and often involves issues with blood flow regulation and nervous system signaling. Effective care focuses on restoring autonomic balance and improving overall function.
Common Signs & Symptoms
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Lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting upon standing
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Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
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Fatigue and exercise intolerance
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Brain fog and reduced cognitive performance
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Headaches
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Anxiety, shakiness, or cold sweats
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Gastrointestinal dysfunction (nausea, bloating, constipation)
Our Approach
Traditional care for POTS often focuses on symptom management—hydration, compression, and rest. While helpful, these strategies don’t address the underlying dysfunction.
We take a deeper, functional approach by assessing how your autonomic nervous system is operating—specifically the balance between the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) and parasympathetic (“rest and regulate”) systems.
We identify where regulation is breaking down and use targeted, non-invasive therapies to restore balance, including:
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Vagal nerve stimulation
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Vestibular and visual rehabilitation
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Breath retraining
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Functional chiropractic adjustments (as needed)
Our goal is to move your system out of a chronic stress state and into one where regulation, recovery, and long-term healing can occur.