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Dr. McCanse, Upper Cervical chiropractor reviewing axial CBCT scan to assess atlas and axis misalignment during diagnosis at Precision Chiropractic in Vermont

Gentle. Precise.

Focused on the Root Cause

We can help you.
Chiropractor performing a gentle, NUCCA-style atlas adjustment on a patient as part of upper cervical chiropractic care in Vermont.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic is a specialized approach to chiropractic care that focuses on the upper cervical spine, specifically the atlas (the first cervical vertebra) and axis (the second cervical vertebra), which are located at the top of your spine where the skull and spine meet.

What Makes Upper Cervical Chiropractic Different?

Focus on the Upper Cervical Spine: Upper Cervical Chiropractic targets the alignment of the topmost part of the spine, where your head and neck connect. The atlas plays a crucial role in supporting the weight of your head and protecting your brainstem, which is vital to your nervous system. Any misalignment in this area, known as the Atlas Displacement Complex, can disrupt the nervous system and contribute to a wide range of symptoms. Whatever symptoms you’re experiencing, we believe there is always a cause. We look to determine what is directly related to the spine, indirectly related, and not related to the spine at all, so we, and you, know the best plan moving forward.

3D CBCT scan showing atlas misalignment and structural measurements for diagnosing the Atlas Displacement Complex at Precision Chiropractic in Vermont.

Gentle, Precise Adjustments: Unlike conventional chiropractic care, which may use manual adjustments or “cracking” of the spine, Upper Cervical Chiropractic uses very gentle, precise adjustments to realign the atlas and axis. These adjustments are tailored to your specific needs based on spinal imaging and are designed to restore proper alignment without forceful movements. This makes it an ideal approach for people who are sensitive to traditional chiropractic techniques or who have chronic conditions.

The Puzzle Approach to Symptoms: At Precision Chiropractic, we see your symptoms as a clue in a larger puzzle. Whether you're dealing with headaches, vertigo, neck pain, or a number of other symptoms, we know there is always an underlying cause. We do not just treat the symptoms. We focus on discovering the root cause of your discomfort. Often, if you have had previous accidents or injuries to your body, there could be an underlying misalignment in the structure of your spine. We address these structural shifts through precise care.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We use cutting-edge technology like 3D CBCT Imaging and Functional Cervical Assessments to precisely measure the misalignment of your upper cervical spine and its current function. These advanced diagnostic tools allow us to identify the exact nature of the issue and provide highly customized care that targets the root cause of your symptoms, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.

Dr. McCanse, Upper Cervical chiropractor reviewing axial CBCT scan to assess atlas and axis misalignment during diagnosis at Precision Chiropractic in Vermont

Focus on Long-Term Healing: Unlike conventional chiropractic, which is often symptom-focused and short-term, Upper Cervical Chiropractic aims for long-term correction. We focus on restoring the structural integrity of your spine, which in turn optimizes nervous system function. By correcting the underlying issue, we help your body heal naturally, leading to lasting improvements and helping prevent recurring issues. Our goal is not to have to perform a spinal correction at every visit. Our patients are excited when they come in for an appointment and they are holding, meaning they do not need an adjustment. When you are holding, you are healing. Our care plans very often have fewer visits and less frequency over time.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic is different because it takes a focused, gentle, and diagnostic approach to care, targeting the upper cervical region of the spine to restore balance and improve nervous system function. We approach your symptoms like a puzzle. There is always a cause, and we work to uncover it using precise measurements and advanced tools. Our goal is not only to relieve symptoms, but to address the root cause of the issue for long-term healing and restoration of health. If you have been dealing with persistent health challenges or have not found relief with traditional treatments, Upper Cervical Chiropractic may be the solution you have been looking for.