Is Upper Cervical Care Right For You? Understanding This Chiropractic Technique

• Restores nerve function
• Helps alleviate upper neck pain
• Improves overall spinal health.
• Allows for precise identification of misalignments and nerve irritations
• Targets critical areas that influence health and wellness throughout the body
• Promotes holistic health by addressing specific misalignments without invasive procedures or medication.

1. Chronic neck pain
2. Migraines
3. Vertigo
4. Blood pressure irregularities
5. Back pain
6. Post-concussion syndrome

• Frequent headaches or migraines – Suggests our nerve function may be compromised.
• Persistent neck pain – Indicates a potential misalignment in the upper cervical spine.
• Dizziness or balance issues – Signal problems with nerve function or spinal health related to the neck’s anatomy.
• Numbness or tingling in arms – Indicates issues with nerve pathways possibly stemming from upper cervical subluxation.
• A history of whiplash or other neck injuries – Suggests we might have undiagnosed misalignments needing correction.
• Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort – Points towards potential alignment issues affecting our overall wellness.

While upper cervical care offers numerous benefits for spinal health and wellness, it’s not suitable for everyone. Certain conditions act as contraindications, meaning they may prevent you from receiving this type of chiropractic technique safely.

1. Individuals with recent spinal injuries or fractures should avoid upper cervical adjustments until fully healed. The delicate nature of these conditions requires specific medical attention beyond chiropractic care.
2. Patients who have had previous neck surgeries might find upper cervical care risky. Surgical modifications can alter the anatomy and stability of the cervical spine, making adjustments potentially harmful.
3. Those diagnosed with certain types of arthritis, specifically rheumatoid arthritis in the neck region, should exercise caution. Upper cervical chiropractic techniques could exacerbate pain and discomfort due to inflammation around the joints.
4. People suffering from osteoporosis face a higher risk during any form of spinal manipulation, including upper cervical adjustments. The brittleness of neck bones associated with osteoporosis increases the chance of fractures.
5. If someone has known malignancies or tumors in the spinal cord, they need to consult their healthcare provider before considering upper cervical care. Adjustments in such cases might spread cancerous cells or aggravate symptoms.

Always discuss your full medical history with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment plan to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your condition.

• Acupuncture – An ancient practice originating from traditional Chinese medicine that targets specific points in the body with thin needles. This method stimulates the nervous system, promoting natural healing and pain relief.
• Rehabilitation Exercises – Offers a comprehensive approach to pain management and mobility improvement, focusing on exercises tailored to strengthen the body’s muscles around the spine and improve overall function.
• Massage therapy – It works by relieving muscle tension and increasing blood flow to affected areas, which can significantly aid in reducing neck pain and enhancing range of movement.

1. We always advise our patients to wear comfortable clothing on the day of their upper cervical care appointment. Comfort is key as it allows for easier movement and a more relaxed experience during the chiropractic adjustments.
2.  Ensure you have all your health information updated and ready to share with your chiropractor. This includes any recent X-rays, MRI reports, and details about past treatments or surgeries related to spinal health or neck issues. Accurate health records help us tailor the treatment specifically to your needs.
3. We recommend arriving a few minutes early for your first appointment. This extra time lets you complete any necessary paperwork without feeling rushed, ensuring we have all the information needed for providing effective treatment options focused on wellness and pain management.

1. We prepare you for a gentle adjustment focused on the upper cervical spine, which includes the first two bones of the neck and potentially the cranium. This precise method aims to restore nerve function without forceful manipulation.
2. Our chiropractors use specialized diagnostic tools to assess spinal alignment accurately before treatment begins. This ensures we target misalignments effectively, promoting optimal health and wellness through improved spinal health and nerve function.
3. During your visit, expect a thorough examination that focuses solely on identifying any upper cervical subluxation—misalignment combined with nerve irritation—that may be affecting your overall well-being.
4. We explain every step of the process, ensuring you understand how our techniques support spinal health, alleviate neck pain, and contribute to holistic health improvements over time.

1. Keep movements gentle and avoiding any strenuous activities for the next 24 hours following your upper cervical care appointment. This allows your body to adapt without unnecessary stress.
2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, supporting your body’s natural healing processes and helping to flush out toxins released during the adjustment.
3. Apply ice if you experience any discomfort in the treated area, using a cloth barrier between the ice pack and skin to prevent frostbite while reducing inflammation.
4. Follow up with us as scheduled, ensuring that adjustments hold properly and progress toward better spinal health continues smoothly.
5. Keep track of any changes you notice in your symptoms or overall wellness, sharing this information during your next visit helps us tailor our approach more effectively.