Ask about training
Upper cervical care is taught through several technique organizations, including Atlas Orthogonal, Advanced Orthogonal, NUCCA and Blair. Ask which technique the chiropractor uses, what certification they hold, and who issued it.
Ask how they measure
These techniques depend on imaging to calculate the correction. Ask what images are taken, how they are analyzed and how the result is checked afterward. Be cautious of anyone who adjusts the upper neck on a first visit with no measurement at all.
Ask how often you will be adjusted
The aim of upper cervical care is a correction that holds. A good sign is a provider who checks you first and adjusts only when needed, and who expects your visits to spread out over time.
Ask about cost up front
You should know the price of the first visit, imaging and follow-ups before you commit. Be wary of large prepaid packages sold under pressure. You have the right to a written Good Faith Estimate if you are paying for care yourself.
Notice how they explain things
You should leave the first visit understanding what was found, what is being recommended and why. A provider who welcomes questions, and who tells you when something is outside their scope, is one you can work with.
Questions to bring
- Which technique do you use, and how were you trained in it?
- Will you take X-rays, and what will they show?
- How will we know the correction worked?
- How many visits do you expect I will need?
- What happens if I do not improve?
For this practice’s answers to these questions, see upper cervical chiropractic, Dr. Lambert’s profile and our fees.