1. Your history
Your provider asks about your symptoms, when they began, past accidents or falls, and what you have already tried. Old injuries matter, because an upper neck problem can date back years.
2. The exam
This includes posture, how your neck moves, and orthopedic and neurological checks. Upper cervical chiropractors also look for signs the body is compensating, such as a tilted head or uneven shoulders.
3. Neck X-rays
If the exam supports upper cervical care, a set of neck X-rays is taken at an imaging center about a mile from our Brandon office. They cost $35 at the first appointment. If you have earlier images, bring them so they can be reviewed, though new images are usually needed for the adjustment.
4. Analysis
The images are measured to work out how the atlas sits in three dimensions. Those numbers produce the angle for your adjustment, which is specific to you.
5. The adjustment
You lie on your side and the instrument is set to your angle. The impulse takes only a moment. There is no twisting or cracking.
6. Afterward
Drink extra water, rest, and follow any at-home instructions you are given, including any supplements recommended.
Follow-up visits
The goal is for the correction to hold. At later visits you are checked first and adjusted only if the atlas has shifted. As it holds for longer, visits are spaced further apart.
What to bring
- A list of your medications
- Any recent imaging or reports of your neck or head
- Notes on your symptoms, including a headache or dizziness diary if you keep one