Many of these problems can be associated with the imbalance of the spinal column. The spinal column is a tunnel of interlocking bones called vertebrae that protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is an extension of the brain, together known as the central nervous system. There are spaces between each vertebra allowing nerves, which are extensions of the spinal cord, to supply and connect every part of the human body. Therefore, it is the nervous system that regulates and affects all body functions.

The nervous system can be likened to a major highway. Without problems and all vehicles going the speed limit travel is smooth and without accident. However, if there is a car crash traffic slows down and even stops. The highway does not function as it was intended. When the spinal column is misaligned and out of balance, the nervous system is unable to function as it was intended.

Many years of clinical research points to the fact that much of the problem associated with spinal misalignment and its consequences can be associated with the atlas vertebra, the top cervical bone is the neck.

This one bone can effect the alignment of the entire spine. The spine is like a chain – when the first link is twisted and turned, each link down to the last turns – thereby disrupting the rest of that chain. The human body is balanced when the head is positioned in the center of the feet. When the atlas is misaligned it causes the head to tilt. The spine then shifts to support the weight of the head, thereby creating biomechanical and postural stresses and strains. When the atlas bone is properly aligned, that is in the orthogonal-orr neutral-position, the rest of the spinal vertebra come into better alignment allowing the body to heal itself. The delicate and complex connections of the nervous system allow communication between the systems of the body.

An examination of the anatomy of the atlas vertebra reveals that it weighs a mere two ounces and the human head weighs 9 to 7 pounds. Hence, the likeness to ATLAS - the figure in Greek mythology who carried the world on his shoulders. The atlas is located directly under the head, connecting the head to the rest of the spine.

The atlas supports the weight of the head most efficiently in the orthogonal, or neutral position. Atlas orthogonal is an engineering term referring to the position of the atlas being 90 degrees to the head and neck.

Trauma in one form or another is the primary cause of misalignment. When the atlas vertebra is subjected to stresses and strains, it may be pushed out of proper alignment. Trauma may include car accidents (no matter how minor and regardless of immediate symptoms), slips and falls, blows to the head, or sports related injuries. Repetitive micro traumas, such as bas sleeping habits, poor posture, incorrect lifting and carrying can also cause misalignment.

Once the atlas is moved out of its orthogonal position the body tries to compensate to maintain its center of gravity. It does this by keeping the head directly over the center of the feet. However, to maintain the level position of the head the rest of the spine adapts and is thrown out of alignment.

The resulting misalignment may cause nerve pressure and inflammation causing a disruption of the normal functioning of the nervous system. This one dysfunction may play a role in a multitude of symptoms and pain in different areas of the body.

Besides directly impacting the neck, we can see other effects such a decreased curves in the neck, scoliosis, and changes in the alignment in the shoulders and pelvis. These changes in the alignment affect the structural integrity of the skeletal system. This in turn can result in a host of other symptoms and problems, especially headaches, neck, and facial pain.

An atlas orthogonist threats this condition through a system of examination and diagnosis that utilizes a detailed scientific and biomechanical protocol. Precise measurements of the angle of the atlas are the basis of the treatment.

The doctor renders an extensive evaluation of the patients’ condition on the first visit. A complete and through history is critical in aiding the doctor in the proper diagnosis. This history includes asking a variety of questions pertaining to every aspect of the patients’ symptoms and injuries. The exam also includes orthopedic/neurological, and postural assessment of imbalances in the spine that would lead to problems with the health of the spine and its related symptoms and pain. The first step of the diagnosis is to determine the degree in which the atlas I misaligned. Very precise x-rays are taken which show the doctor exactly how the atlas is displaced. The x-rays taken are invaluable in making the most precise atlas correction, which is as unique to the patient as their own fingerprint. Following the diagnosis a specific treatment protocol is developed to align the atlas in the the correct neutral/orthogonal position.

One of the most important post adjustment steps are post x-rays, which are taken immediately after the initial treatment. There is no guesswork in this program. These three dimensional x-rays are taken and analyzed to verify tht the best possible correction was rendered. The doctor may then show the patient the comparison between before and after x-rays. Post x-rays are an illustration of the exact change that has taken place because of the atlas orthogonal correction.

In order to treat this condition, Dr. Roy seat, the founder of the atlas orthogonal procedure, devised a method utilizing a very light force adjustment directly to the atlas spinal bone, that safely and effectively re-position the atlas under the head. Dr. Sweat is considered by many to be one of the foremost authorities in the world on the cervical spine. The history of treating the atlas goes back to the early 1900’s when Dr. B.J. Palmer, the developer of chiropractic, spent many years of clinical research in discovering that it was the atlas that controlled the position of the head and the resulting position of the rest of the spine.

Dr. Palmer taught to correct the atlas position using the hands with about 40 pounds of force. Dr. Sweat and Dr. John F. Grostic were taught by Dr. Palmer. In his extensive clinical research, Dr. Grostic found that much less force was actually necessary to correct the atlas into position. Dr. Sweat in his further research discovered that even less force was actually needed. Dr. Sweat invented and engineered a highly advanced instrument that without pain or pressure is able to accurately re-position the atlas vertebra. The procedure is non-invasive and gentle.

The results are often immediate and dramatic. However, the atlas may have been out of alignment for some time before symptoms actually appear. Without proper treatment the symptoms only get worse, and the problem becomes more difficult to correct. The longer the existing condition is without treatment, the more time and treatment it may take to heal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic?

Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic is a specialty within chiropractic field. The Atlas Orthogonal system is painless and safe spinal correction, which restores body balance and reactivates the body’s natural healing abilities.

What exactly is an Atlas Orthogonist?

The atlas Orthogonist is a license Doctor of Chiropractic who, in addition to six or more years of education, utilizes a light force method of specifically adjusting spinal misalignment by using the atlas orthogonal percussion instrument. This method is gentle and effective and requires postgraduate training.

The atlas Orthogonal system is a painless and safe spinal correction which restores body balance and increases the body’s natural healing ability. Our clinic uses the Atlas Orthogonal system of health care exclusively, to care for our patients. This precision form of upper cervical spinal correction painlessly restores body balance without forceful or twisting of the neck or back.

How does this unique method differ from general chiropractic care?

One of the most obvious differences is the gentle, painless way in which An Atlas Orthogonist works. No manipulation (twisting or cracking) is ever employed or needed. The Atlas Orthogonist’s methods require such light touches to the affected area, that patients who may expect a forceful manipulation as part of their treatment, find it hard to believe that anything effective has been accomplished. But, their doubts and fears vanish a quickly a their pain and discomfort.

Does it hurt?

The Atlas Orthogonist spinal correction is painless and barely felt by the patient. Because of the precise X- Ray analysis, a correction can be made without any forceful jerking or twisting movements.

How long does an Adjustment Last?

The accuracy of the procedure affords the patient longer lasting effects. And while the Atlas can again lose its proper adjustment, for most patients the procedure results in far fewer visits than most other procedures. The end result is that Atlas Orthogonal provides simple, gentle and dramatic results. And that translates into greater relief, better health, fewer office visits and less money spent.

What can I expect after my first correction?

After the first Atlas Orthogonal spinal correction, you may experience a variety of changes within your body. These are due to the nervous system responding to the structural correction. Symptoms are a positive sign that healing is taking place. In order to heal, the body must go through different cycles of repair, which very often express themselves in some of the following ways:

Elevation of symptoms – Tiredness or sleepiness – Muscle stiffness/Soreness

You should not be concerned if the pain changes or moves to another area of the body. Symptoms may decrease immediately. However, the amount of misalignment and severity of the condition will determine the recovery time. Please make the doctor aware of any and all changes. Remember, the pain is a sign that the body is working; any changes can be part of the healing process.

How do I maintain my Atlas Orthogonal spinal correction?

Patients often ask what holds the spine in place once it has been corrected. When the head and neck have been re-placed to their natural position, the body will regain its normal balance and relationship to gravity. This will release tension held by the body due to its compensated stressed position. A relaxed body structure is now more stable and functions more freely. This, along with some specific instructions about body position, movement and a simple routine of therapeutic stretching exercises will allow the correction to hold for weeks, months and sometimes even years.

How is the treatment determined?

The treatment is decided upon after a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms and prior health history. Combining that information with the results of any orthopedic, neurological chiropractic examination, leg measurements, temperature differential studies, and X-ray studies, the doctor is able to pinpoint accuracy the source of the problem and decide upon the best plan of health care.

Are X-rays necessary?

Yes. It is important that certain X-ray be made. To see is to know, to not see is to guess. An Atlas Orthogonist will never guess about your health. He has had extensive X-ray training and will never require X-ray studies, which are not vital to the diagnosis and treatment of your condition.

What else can Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic care do?

Atlas Orthogonal spinal corrections can help you and your family resolve pain and suffering and can aid in the healthy growth and development of your children. Precision spinal care can eliminate the need for medication and surgery in many cases. After you have experienced the results of Atlas Orthogonal spinal corrections for yourself, tell someone else about your experience, and help is overcome the ignorance, prejudice and superstition about spinal care.

The Altas orthogonal spinal correction…who needs it?

When most people think chiropractic corrections, they think of neck pain, back pain or muscle aches. The Atlas Orthogonal Spinal Correction can help your body work better no matter what type of health problem you may have. Our organization can help your body work better no matter what type of health problem you may have. Our organization is dedicated to correcting the Atlas Subluxation Complex, which is a misalignment of the bone structure of the head and neck. This misalignment can block the communication between your brain and body causing pain, stress and tension. This stress and tension can affect all physical and even mental activity of the body. Many symptoms can be relieved by correction of the Atlas Sublaxation Compex. We have had positive results with such conditions as:

Arthritis

Chronic pain or stress

Neck and back pain

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Asthma

Herniated discs

Migraines and other headaches

Auto accident injuries

Sciatica

Fibromyalgia

Athletic injuries

Here is what happens

A vertebral sublaxation, which adversely affects a nerve, can interfere with normal nerve transmission of impulses (messages) to various organs and tissues of the body. This can cause many health problems. Your pain or health problem may be caused by vertebral sublaxation. Make sure your nerve channels are clear by having a spinal examination by a doctor of chiropractic.