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Upper cervical chiropractic achieves better health and quality of life

Key Takeaways

  • Upper cervical chiropractic focuses on precise alignment of the top two spinal vertebrae and their relationship to nervous system function.
  • A peer-reviewed double-blind study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension found an average 17-point systolic blood pressure reduction in patients receiving real upper cervical corrections.
  • Upper cervical care is not a substitute for medical treatment; patients should work with their physician alongside any chiropractic care.
  • The technique has gained broader public awareness through media coverage, patient testimonials, and documentary film.
  • Patients interested in upper cervical care should seek practitioners with specialized training and verify credentials through a trusted provider directory.

Recently, Upper Cervical Care has been receiving national media exposure. Good Morning America featured a story about Upper Cervical Care and how it has helped some patients lower their blood pressure without drugs. 

Dr. George Bakris, a blood pressure expert at the University of Chicago Medical Center conducted a double-blind study to really look and see if, in fact, this Upper Cervical procedure was improving high blood pressure. 

Half the patients received the real Upper Cervical correction and the others received a fake correction. The result, published in The Journal of Human Hypertension, found those patients who received the real thing saw their blood pressure drop dramatically, an average of 17 points. That's equivalent to giving patients two different blood pressure medications at once. Talk show host, Montel Williams who suffers from multiple sclerosis (MS) had his doctor on his show to explain how Upper Cervical Care benefits those who have MS as well as many other conditions. 

Montel said, “It’s the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me!” He was in pain 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year; yet within just two weeks of his Upper Cervical correction, he could stand up straight without pain for the first time in over 5 years. Upper Cervical was also featured on The Doctor's television show as well as numerous local news stations. The Power of Upper Cervical, a documentary short was also produced to create awareness of the Upper Cervical. 

With the explosion of Social Media, patients under Upper Cervical Care are posting their own personal testimonials. It’s true; Upper Cervical Care is the best-kept secret in health care! Check it out for yourself! 

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is upper cervical chiropractic care?
Upper cervical chiropractic care is a specialized branch of chiropractic that focuses on the alignment of the top two vertebrae of the spine — the atlas and axis — located just beneath the skull. Practitioners believe that misalignment in this area may affect the nervous system and overall health. Unlike general chiropractic, upper cervical techniques are precise and gentle, typically involving no forceful twisting or cracking.
Can upper cervical chiropractic care help lower blood pressure?
A double-blind clinical study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension, led by Dr. George Bakris at the University of Chicago Medical Center, found that patients who received a real upper cervical correction experienced an average drop of 17 points in systolic blood pressure compared to those who received a sham procedure. While these results are promising, upper cervical care is not a proven treatment for hypertension, and patients should consult their physician before making any changes to their blood pressure management.
Is upper cervical chiropractic care safe?
Upper cervical chiropractic is generally considered a low-force, gentle technique, which many practitioners and patients find reassuring compared to traditional spinal manipulation. As with any healthcare intervention, individual results and safety profiles vary. You should discuss your health history, current conditions, and any medications with both your primary care provider and a qualified upper cervical chiropractor before beginning care.
What conditions may benefit from upper cervical chiropractic care?
Research and patient reports have explored upper cervical care in connection with conditions including high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis symptoms, chronic pain, and headaches, among others. It is important to understand that upper cervical chiropractic is not a cure for any condition. The care is designed to optimize nervous system function through spinal alignment, which may support overall health and wellbeing as part of a broader care plan.
How do I find a qualified upper cervical chiropractor?
You can search for a qualified upper cervical chiropractor through a healthcare provider directory like Medximity, which lists verified chiropractic specialists by location and specialty. Look for practitioners who have received advanced training in upper cervical techniques such as NUCCA, Blair, or Atlas Orthogonal. It is always a good idea to verify credentials, ask about the practitioner's training and experience, and consult your primary care physician as part of your decision.

Sources

  1. Journal of Human Hypertension — Bakris et al. — Journal of Human Hypertension — Bakris et al.
  2. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) — Chiropractic Overview — National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) — Chiropractic Overview
  3. American Chiropractic Association — American Chiropractic Association
  4. National Multiple Sclerosis Society — National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  5. American Heart Association — High Blood Pressure — American Heart Association — High Blood Pressure

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