The cervical spine is located at neck level. It consists of seven vertebrae, and they've been designated C1 to C7. The first two of those vertebrae are specially shaped and known as the atlas and the axis. They help provide much of the rotation of the head. The atlas is like a ring or a washer the head sits on. It pivots with C2. The bottom of the cervical spine at C7 connects with the thoracic spine at about shoulder level.
In addition to supporting the head and its movement, the cervical spine also protects the spinal cord, a bundle of nerves originating at the base of the brain and traveling down about 20 inches before it branches off. At Chiropractic Health Clinic in Omaha, NE, we have a special interest in the care and treatment of upper cervical spine conditions.
The Structural Relationship
There is an intricate relationship between C1 and C2 and the brain stem. If C1 and C2 become misaligned, it will interfere with the brain's ability to communicate with other parts of the body, and body function will diminish.
Given the proximity of C1 and C2 to the brain and brain stem, great care must be used when treating misalignment of the upper cervical region. Our chiropractor performs proper realignment of the upper cervical spine with precision adjustment of the affected portion, which may prevent the need for invasive surgery.
Conditions Treated with Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
There are a wide variety of conditions that are treated with upper cervical chiropractic care. Here are just a few of them:
- Neck Pain: A significant number of our patients suffer from neck pain. Upper cervical chiropractic care relieves or eliminates neck pain for many of those patients.
- Tension Headaches and Migraines: These headaches might be caused by stress, fatigue, or upper cervical spinal misalignment.
- High Blood Pressure: Studies have concluded that high blood pressure can be caused by a C1-C2 misalignment.
Are Upper Cervical Spine Adjustments Dangerous?
Your highly-trained and experienced chiropractor in Omaha will apply less pressure than in the case of adjusting a misaligned vertebra in the lower back. The adjustment is gentle and painless.
Visit Our Chiropractor for Upper Cervical Spine Chiropractic Treatment in Omaha
Care of the upper cervical spine can treat and prevent a wide variety of health conditions. After a thorough examination, we'll provide you with our expert opinion and discuss a treatment plan with you. Our objective is to eliminate your pain, restore your range of motion and improve your body’s natural ability to heal itself. Call Chiropractic Health Clinic in Omaha, NE, today at (402) 778-5470 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
