What is Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique?
Upper cervical chiropractic technique was developed by B. J. Palmer in the 1930s. According to this technique, only upper cervical vertebrae can suffer from subluxation; therefore this technique stresses a lot of importance on the atlanto-occipital joint, indicating that it is a potential source of instability. Upper cervical chiropractic is a method where the therapists or chiropractors focus in detecting and removing the misalignments present in the first two bones of the neck. The misalignments in the upper two cervical vertebrae may be the cause of health problems in an individual. An upper cervical adjustment is done very gently. It does not involve any forceful pulling, jerking or twisting movements of the neck. The adjustment or correction is done using a precise and skillful touch that permits the head, neck and spine to return to their normal positions.
Understanding the Structure of Upper Spine
The brain stem continues down into the spine which makes the upper region of the spine one of the richest areas of nerves in the body, and most vulnerable too. Even the slightest disturbance to the nerves may significantly affect the entire body. Sorting out the problem in the upper neck leads to resolution of many secondary problems present in the entire spine. The first cervical vertebrae (C1) is known as Atlas and the second (C2) is known as Axis. There is a unique relationship between these two vertebrae and any movement such as rotation, tipping or a very mild misalignment can have a profound effect on the complete nervous system. When the Atlas and Axis have lost their integrity, the other regions of the spine compensate resulting in symptoms and illness in an individual.
Role of Chiropractor in Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique
The chiropractor focuses on the adjustment using a specific, highly-controlled contact to the upper vertebrae. The right amount of energy to the spine, at the right time, at the right place and in the right direction results in restoring the integrity of the spine and nervous system. The aim of this technique is to detect and relieve the misalignment in the upper cervical vertebrae, which is causing problems and thus permitting the body to rebuild and revitalize its normal functions.
Chiropractic treatment comprises of correcting the misalignments in the entire spine. The upper cervical chiropractic is a specialty of the chiropractic that concentrates on the top two cervical vertebrae. These top two cervical vertebrae help in protecting the brainstem. This region also helps in transmission of signals which control other vital body functions like heart rate, breathing, digestion etc. So, any misalignment in these top 2 vertebras upsets all the important functions of the body. This is how the upper cervical chiropractic specialty is different.
Benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique
Some Of The Conditions In Which Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique Provides Relief Are:
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Migraine headaches
- Digestive problems
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches and pain
- Chronic back pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Vertigo
- Allergies
- Sleep Apnea
- Asthma
