In upper cervical chiropractic care, a chiropractor focuses on the alignment of the head and neck. The first vertebra in the neck is called the atlas, also known as C1. It is responsible for the development of a variety of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints throughout the body. These bones are called C1 and C2 vertebrae (axis of the atlas). They play a very specialized role in the alignment of the body. Since they balance the head, even the slightest movement affecting the apposition of these two bones can lead to changes in the entire spine. They also facilitate blood flow to the brain through tiny bone loops that allow a safe passage of the vertebral arteries. There are also different types of osteoarthritis treatments for the top two bones of the neck.
The Upper Cervical Spine
The purpose of an upper cervical spine is to restore normal structural alignment between the head, neck, and brain. When connective tissue changes as a result of an accident or injury, the axis of the atlas can shift from its actual place and move onto an abnormal position, where it remains stressed, which results in an abnormal alignment of the brainstem and spinal cord in the upper cervical spine. Treatment of these fundamental neural and structural changes can restore normal structural alignment between the head and neck by improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and improving the relationship between the brainstem and spinal cord.
The brainstem is responsible for controlling and coordinating many vital functions of the body. The second vertebra is called the atlas axis, also known as C2, and is located in the upper cervical spine (commonly referred to as the "upper cervical spine"). The brain stem and spinal cord are connected to the brain and are located on this axis.
Upper Cervical Spinal Misalignment
The atlas plays an even more important role: it surrounds and protects the brainstem exactly where it meets the spinal column and spinal cord. Malpositioning of the spine can impair the function of our central nervous system by putting pressure on the brain stem and reducing blood flow. Imbalances in the upper spine can cause pain and discomfort in some patients, especially those with spine disorders. The lower brainstem regulates many parts of the body. It has numerous functions that are difficult to list down; however, the most significant use of the lower brainstem is controlling and balancing the body.
The malposition of the upper neck causes a number of problems, some of which are actually recognized by those who know what they are doing – people who are masters in their field. The impairments are likely to have a negative impact on the internal organ systems and cause a variety of (often confusing) symptoms. They can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms. Subluxation of the upper cervical vertebra can also lead to posture distortions in the underlying spine. You might hear a crisp sound that can cause pain and discomfort in your upper cervical spine. This discomfort is the result of improper communication between the brain and body, as well as an imbalance in the communication of the spine.
What a Chiropractor Can Do
Upper Cervical Care doctors can detect malpositions by precise X-rays and a variety of other methods. You may wonder how a chiropractor can precisely address the most dangerous malpositions of vertebrae C1 and C2 in the middle of the spinal cord. It is understandable that many people are reluctant to have their heads and necks examined. Each visit is evaluated to determine whether there are neurostructural changes that require specific adjustments to the upper cervical spine.
As a cervical spine consultant, a chiropractor evaluates and corrects imbalances in the upper spine. A chiropractor who studies the upper and lower spine is particularly careful to evaluate the sensitive areas of the spine in order to link them to the needs of their patients, who can then adapt to the new changes. There are few reported side effects as well. Many secondary health conditions often remain undiagnosed. The aim is to assess whether you have secondary diseases or symptoms caused by structural changes in the spine. With corrections, the body can develop optimally and experience less pain and discomfort.
Chiropractors can put together a care plan that takes into account the age, health, and lifestyle of the patient. They will introduce and explain your treatment options and help you choose the right treatment to maintain the corrections you have achieved over time. This will help you achieve the necessary health improvements and reduce risk of complications.
Benefits of Upper Cervical Care
A primary goal of chiropractic care for the upper cervical spine is to restore proper communication between brain and body by eliminating disturbances and distortions. Once these hindrances are eliminated, your body can recover better. This is just one of the many benefits of treating the upper cervical spine by a chiropractor, and it is an important part of their practice.
Chiropractors believe that upper cervical care is a reliable and highly important form of treatment for the upper cervix. Upper Cervical Care focuses on the development of the relationship between the neck and body. The neck is the gateway to the rest of your body, and it plays an important role in the health and well-being of the body.
Factors such as age, gender, and physical activity should also be considered when finding the right treatment. Science tells us that brainstem cells act as mediators between the brain and the body, transmitting nerve signals from the spinal nerves to the cells, tissues, and organs of our body. The interaction of these structures is crucial for the promotion and restoration of health and the development of healthy bodily functions. A chiropractor of the upper cervical spine carefully determines where the malposition is in the spine and then corrects it with precise adjustments. Therefore, a spinal imbalance, or what is called vertebral subluxation, will disrupt communication between our brain and body and, if not corrected, lead to loss of bodily function and healing potential.
Treating the Upper Cervical Spine
Many patients can alleviate the following ailments by correcting the malposition, subluxation, or eliminating the disorder so that the body can heal itself. The goal is to locate and eliminate these disorders by maintaining the adjustment to help you lead a healthy life for years to come.
Chiropractors use modern diagnostic imaging techniques such as x-rays and CT scans to manage misalignments. Finally, it becomes clear how important the upper cervical spine is to our health and how it functions as a vital part of our spinal cord. The human nervous system is also affected by spinal subluxation, as are other diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, arthritis, and chronic pain. Chiropractic care focuses on the health of the spine and how it affects the overall health of your body. They use a variety of methods to combat so-called spinal subluxation. The spinal subluxation causes a joint to become fixated, inflamed, and painful. The precise measurements that have been made can bring long-term benefits after the initial adjustment.
When it is time for a correction of the spine and neck, the chiropractor will use an adjustment chart to arrange the body in a certain way. This adjustment does not involve twisting or cracking the spine. However, measurements are made to determine where significant imbalances are in your body. Then adjustments to the neck, back, shoulders, hips, legs, knees, feet, ankles, and feet are made accordingly. Your body's orientation will be monitored during your visit to determine if and how much an adjustment is warranted. Your body's orientation changes over time; therefore, your orientation must be monitored throughout the visit. There are various nervous system disorders that give the body the ability to cure the symptoms of diseases from which we suffer. The symptoms can be treated with very specific and gentle adjustments of the upper cervical spine. Chiropractors apply low force corrections for precision and safety. You will then start to feel the effects. Be ready to have your doctor help you calculate the correct position of your cervical spine to achieve the best possible treatment for you.
The adjustment is very gentle and safe, and you will notice the effects immediately or in the coming weeks. Some patients, who are rather sensitive in nature, may notice a slight increase in pain; however, it is a momentary thing. After a while, they will get accustomed to the noticeable improvements. With continued help, our goal is to limit or remove the pain. Make an appointment at Natural Chiropractor Care today to start the journey of self-care. You can learn more about our wellness services on our website.