Upper
cervical chiropractic care is “specific” because of the unique
structure and function of the upper cervical spine–the Atlas and
the Axis. These two vertebrae, unlike any other in the spine, are
primarily held in place by ligaments and muscles, instead of bone.
While this allows for greater mobility, it is also susceptible to
misalignments from traumas such as falls, auto accidents, sports
injuries, and birth traumas. Misalignments at this level may lead to
irritation of the brain stem and nervous system and affect an
individual’s health.
If there is an upper cervical misalignment, a gentle and specified protocol is necessary when examining and caring for each patient. The objective of the Upper Cervical protocol is to accurately identify the position of the vertebrae.
The brain stem is like the control center that extends down an opening in the base of your skull. This area is vulnerable to injuries or irritation around the upper neck. The brain stem works like a telephone cable with thousands of individual wires (nerve fibers) sending signals back and forth between the brain and spinal cord to every system, organ, and cell in the body. Every nerve impulse between the brain and the body must pass through the brain stem.
The nervous system is responsible for all communication within the body. It controls the immune system, emotions, vision, hearing, balance, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, muscle tension, posture, hormones, and every other function. Irritation or pressure within the central nervous system can interrupt communication between the body and brain, creating a variety of health issues that can be helped with your chiropractor.
An Upper Cervical Correction is gentle and there is no forceful jerking, twisting, or pulling on the neck. The correction is applied using an exact and controlled technique that allows the head, neck, and spine to return to their proper positions. This restores balance to the body and removes the interference.
