Highlights from the Conversation

How It All Began

Dr. Simkovich, originally a chiropractor, became intrigued by cranial-bone movement and its role in brain function after witnessing dramatic patient results in early research. His work evolved into a unique manual therapy that helps restore the natural movement of cranial bones, improving circulation, cerebrospinal-fluid (CSF) flow, and neurological balance.

What Happens After a Concussion or Whiplash

• Concussions, whiplash, and even emotional or chemical trauma can all disrupt normal brain and cranial function.
• These injuries impair CSF and glymphatic flow (the brain’s “waste-removal” system), leading to symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, poor sleep, TMJ pain, and cognitive decline.
• By restoring cranial motion, especially at the sphenoid bone, the “Grand Central Station” of the skull, patients often experience relief from years of lingering symptoms.

Why Patients Sleep After Treatment

Many patients fall into deep sleep during or right after treatment. According to Dr. Simkovich, that’s a good sign: it means the brain’s drainage and healing systems are back online.

TMJ, Jaw & Brain Health

The jaw directly connects to the sphenoid bone via the pterygoid muscles. This means jaw dysfunction can affect the entire cranial system—and vice versa. Proper jaw motion, airway health, and cranial alignment are inseparable, which is why collaboration between TMJ specialists, cranial doctors, and chiropractors is so powerful.

From Infants to NFL Veterans

Dr. Simkovich treats newborns with traumatic births to professional athletes with multiple concussions. He’s even worked with NHL and NFL players suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) symptoms, often with remarkable outcomes.

Real Patient Transformations

• Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery: A pilot who survived a plane crash and coma regained full cognitive function and now runs a successful business.
• Caitlin’s Story: A young woman with memory loss after a head injury regained her life and independence after intensive therapy.
• TMJ Success Stories: Patients who’d lost hope after years of pain found lasting relief once cranial movement was restored.

Key Takeaways

• Cranial bones do move and that motion is essential for brain, jaw, and hormonal health.
• The sphenoid bone influences everything from eye tracking and pituitary function to TMJ alignment.
• Whiplash, surgery, and emotional stress can all mimic concussion-type dysfunction.
• Healing is possible, even decades after injury when the root cause is properly addressed.
• A multidisciplinary approach (TMJ therapy, airway evaluation, cranial care, physical therapy) offers the best long-term results.

About Dr. Charlie Simkovich

Founder of the Simkovich Concussion Institute in Pittsburgh, Dr. Simkovich has developed a hands-on protocol known as bloodless surgery by fellow neurosurgeons. He treats patients from around the world, including professional athletes, trauma survivors, and children with developmental issues, using advanced cranial stabilization techniques that enhance CSF flow, brain function, and overall healing.

Learn more: simkovichconcussioninstitute.com

Why This Matters to TMJ Patients

Many chronic TMJ or facial-pain cases have deeper neurological origins. Understanding cranial alignment and brain physiology gives doctors and patients more tools to achieve full, lasting relief.

If you’ve experienced concussions, whiplash, or chronic jaw tension, schedule a consultation with The TMJ Doc to explore how comprehensive TMJ therapy can restore comfort and balance.