What is the Atlas?
The atlas is the topmost vertebra of the neck. It connects the skull to the spine and allows for a greater range of motion than the other vertebrae in the spine.
How Does the Atlas Effect How I Feel?
Although it may seem to be an insignificant portion of the skeletal structure, because the atlas is located at the base of the skull, it makes the central nervous system vulnerable to interference when it misaligns. This interference interrupts the signals being sent from the brain to the various parts of the body and can surface as a pinched nerve (neck and back), pain (lower back and neck), cervical stenosis, a subluxated spine, degenerative disc disease, and others.
How Will NUCCA Help My Pain?
Restoring the atlas and the spinal column to their normal position reduces muscle spasms, which in turn realigns the spine and pelvis to their fully functional positions. The joints of the cervical spine can then work normally because they are in good balance.
Because the atlas misaligns in various directions relative to the skull, x-rays in three dimensions are essential in determining the spinal misalignment. Accurately measuring each person’s misalignment assures the proper adjustment for the person and increases the probability of correction.
A NUCCA adjustment is a very difficult skill to master. Chiropractors who become proficient in its use even after years of study and practice still must take x-rays after the first adjustment to determine if the maximum correction of the atlas has been made and all errors have been eliminated.
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Will I Have Immediate Relief After an Adjustment?
You may feel significantly better after your adjustment, however, the adjustment does not heal the patient. It also does not necessarily immediately relieve symptoms. The healing is done by the patient’s own body, by its own immune system. The adjustment removes interference to normal nerve function. Normal performance of the patient’s nervous system is vital to the body’s ability to self-heal. By closely following the adjustment program and the advice of your chiropractor, your spine will better maintain its alignment and result in a more productive healing process.