A GENTLE CORRECTION

The doctors at Nova Spinal Care use a gentle and precise procedure called NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association). The upper cervical adjustment requires precise mathematical calculations, physics, and biomechanics. X-rays are a critical part of this procedure as they provide us with the necessary information to perform your spinal correction. Not unlike a lock, everyone's spine is unique and requires the proper combination in order to unlock it from its stressed position. Once this “combination” is calculated from the x-rays, a controlled pressure is directed to the top bone of your neck while you rest in a side-lying position. If a correction is required on subsequent visits, this “combination” is applied, eliminating the need for further x-rays.

CORRECTING THE SPINE FROM THE TOP DOWN

Your doctor will use a gentle touch and controlled contact on the first vertebra in the neck, designed to restore balance to your spine. Even though the primary focus is the neck, the effects of the correction influence the whole spine and all the body systems. This is because the NUCCA procedure influences one of the highest control centers over body balance, the brainstem and central nervous system.

The C-1 vertebra, also known as the atlas, is a small, donut-like bone located at the top of the spine and the base of the skull that surrounds the brain stem. When the spine is subjected to stress, it can become misaligned. This phenomenon is known as the Atlas Subluxation Complex (ASC) Syndrome.