Upper Cervical Chiropractic

Upper Cervical Alignment: The Key to Balance and Posture

Did you know that conditions like migraines, vertigo, neck pain, and shoulder pain can stem from an overlooked upper neck injury?

At Compass Balance & Posture, we focus specifically on the topmost bones of the neck—the C1 (Atlas) and C2 (Axis) vertebrae—using a specialized chiropractic technique called NUCCA.

What is NUCCA?

NUCCA, or the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association, is an advanced, gentle chiropractic technique that addresses misalignments of the upper neck using minimal force. NUCCA practitioners take precise, detailed X-rays to measure the exact angles of misalignment, then utilize the principles of physics and biomechanics to gently align the head over the upper neck. This process involves no twisting, cracking, or popping of the spine.

Our primary goal at Compass Balance & Posture is to help you find your true neurological and structural neutral. By aligning the C1 and C2 vertebrae, we aim to restore normal communication between the brain and body while reducing neuromuscular stress throughout your system.

Why Is Upper Cervical Structure So Important?

The C1 (Atlas) vertebra plays a crucial role in your health. It supports the weight of your head and serves as an attachment point for many of the muscles in the head and neck. The C2 (Axis) vertebra facilitates the side-to-side movement of the head. Due to their significant role in movement, these vertebrae are particularly vulnerable to misalignment.

Misalignment of the C1 and C2 vertebrae can occur due to events like whiplash, head injuries, concussions, repetitive stress, or even birth trauma. Because of the unique anatomy of the atlas bone and its relationship to the central nervous system, any shift in these upper neck bones can have a widespread impact on the nervous system. This can result in various symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, neck pain, and even conditions like trigeminal neuralgia or tinnitus.

How NUCCA Helps

By normalizing upper cervical alignment, NUCCA can help restore proper brain-to-body communication, relieve tension, and reduce symptoms related to head or neck injuries. With precise, non-invasive adjustments, we can help you find relief and improve your overall health.

Here’s what typically happens during a NUCCA chiropractic appointment:

  1. Postural Examination:
    • Our focused assessment will help us identify if your neck is an overlooked contributor to your postural imbalances.
  2. Computerized Testing:
    • Our state of the art computerized testing allows us to dig deeper when evaluating your balance and the overall health of your cervical spine.
  3. Detailed X-rays:
    • We use imaging to pinpoint the exact location and degree of your misalignment. These X-rays allow us to customize your treatment plan based on your unique spinal structure.
  4. NUCCA Adjustment:
    • If misalignments are detected, precise adjustments are made using gentle touch over the neck, similar in sensation to having your pulse taken. This technique aims to correct the vertebrae’s position effectively and comfortably.
  5. Follow-up X-rays:
    • After adjustments, additional X-rays are taken to confirm the effectiveness of the realignment and ensure that the vertebrae have been properly repositioned.

WE CARE. WE LISTEN. WE GET RESULTS.

Break free from pain, so you can get back to doing the things you love.
Enjoy a brighter future, and be healthier than you ever thought possible!

Contact UsBook online for current patients
Skip to content