What is Upper Cervical Chiropractic?
Upper Cervical Chiropractic is a long-standing specialty focus within the larger field of Chiropractic, evaluating what's referred to as the Craniocervical Junction (CCJ). Simply put, it's the upper portion of the human neck where it meets and supports the head.
The spinal segments at this critical area, Atlas & Axis, have unique characteristics that make them the "weakest link" in the spine, and as such, susceptible to injury. Slips and falls, whiplash injuries, sports injuries, car accidents, and poor posture are just a few of the many factors that can contribute to structural and neurological symptoms stemming from the upper neck region.
The goal of on Upper Cervical Chiropractor is to identify and reduce an Atlas Displacement (AD). AD is a condition involving abnormal alignment, mechanics, and nervous system function stemming from the upper cervical region. This seemingly less-than-important misalignment can have a complex of painful secondary symptoms:
All This Trouble From Such a Small Area?
The relationship of the Atlas & Axis to the structures above and below is a complex one, however, it can be summarized as a Balance Equation.
For various reasons, some folks experience more Spinal Symptoms, while others have more Neurological Symptoms. One things remains constant however, in that the Atlas is the fulcrum point for the majority of this symptoms. Stabilizing the alignment of the upper cervical spine can be the re-balancing needed to reduce or eliminate symptoms.
