The Atlas/Axis Connection

The first seven vertebrae of your spinal column make up what is known as your cervical spine. It begins at the top of your spine and ends where the middle 12 vertebrae of your spine, known as the thoracic spine, begin at your shoulders.

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The top two vertebrae of the cervical spine (known as C1 and C2) are unique from all the others because they are designed primarily for rotation. The first vertebra, know as the atlas (C1) is located between the skull the axis (C2). The atlas was named for a mythical god who held the “weight of the world” on his shoulders because the atlas actually supports the weight of the head. The atlas sits right on top of the axis and is linked to it by special ligaments that allow rotation between them.

This is such a vital part of the spine, some chiropractors focus almost entirely on the atlas and axis. Proper alignment of these two vertebrae can affect the way your entire body functions and any type of misalignment can exert pressure on the brainstem, causing your entire body to malfunction. This sets up a compromise that can affect every organ, every system, and eventually every cell in your body, allowing a greater possibility for you to develop disease.

Chiropractic adjustments to the upper cervical spine help correct any misalignments and restore proper alignment of the atlas and axis so they function as they were designed, allowing the rest of your body to function as it should as well.

Dr. Stacy  Asks some important questions of interest to Raleigh residents - Chiropractor Raleigh Dr. Stacy Asks...

Could a chiropractor put an end to bedwetting?
If bladder control seems elusive, consider chiropractic. If spinal bones are interfering with nerves that control your child's bladder, plastic sheets, alarms and other methods simply add to the embarrassment. Raleigh parents are often amazed (and relieved) that chiropractic can be so helpful. Learn more.
Where do most Raleigh residents get their first vertebral subluxation?
Being born in a hospital is a common source of vertebral subluxation. Trauma from forceps delivery has been replaced with drugs, vacuum extraction, Cesarean section and births that are "scheduled" to fit the workweek routines of Ob-Gyns. That's why we recommend a chiropractic checkup for every Raleigh newborn.