How Often Should You See An Upper Cervical Chiropractor?

Upper cervical chiropractic care, a specialized approach focusing on the uppermost vertebrae of the spine (primarily the atlas or C1 and axis or C2), has gained prominence due to its potential benefits for a range of health issues. However, as with any form of therapeutic intervention, frequency is crucial for optimal results. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how often one should see an upper cervical chiropractor.

Understanding Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

Before diving into the frequency of visits, it's essential to grasp what upper cervical chiropractic care entails. Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments, which may address larger regions of the spine or other joints, upper cervical care concentrates on the precise alignment of the top two vertebrae. Misalignments here can potentially affect the brainstem, blood flow, and the entire nervous system, leading to a host of health issues.

Initial Phase: Correction and Stabilization

• Intensive Correction Phase: Upon your first visit, the chiropractor will perform a comprehensive assessment, often using advanced imaging techniques. If misalignments are detected, you may need frequent visits during this initial phase – perhaps 2-3 times a week for several weeks. This frequency aids in re-establishing the correct position of the vertebrae.

• Stabilization Phase: Once the initial corrections are made, the next goal is to stabilize the spine. The frequency of visits during this phase generally decreases, and you might visit the chiropractor weekly or bi-weekly for a few months.

Maintenance Phase

After stabilization, the objective shifts to maintaining the optimal alignment of the upper cervical spine. Depending on individual needs, this can range from bi-weekly to monthly visits.

Wellness Phase

Once your spine maintains its proper alignment consistently, the wellness phase begins. Here, the objective is prevention and ensuring optimal spinal health. Visits can be spaced further apart, often ranging from once a month to once every couple of months or even longer.

Individual Factors Impacting Frequency

• Severity of Misalignment: Patients with severe misalignments may require more frequent adjustments initially.

• Age: Older patients might need more time for tissues to adapt and heal, affecting visit frequency.

• Overall Health and Lifestyle: A person who is active and healthy might stabilize faster than someone with chronic health issues or a sedentary lifestyle.

• Posture and Daily Activities: Jobs or activities that strain the neck or spine can impact how often adjustments are needed.

Always Consult with Your Chiropractor

It's essential to note that the above guidelines are general. Individual needs can vary widely, and your chiropractor will create a tailored treatment plan for you. Regular consultations will help adjust this plan as required.

Visiting an upper cervical chiropractor offers potential benefits, but the key is consistent and tailored care. As with many health regimens, it's a journey. Regular check-ups, even when you feel fine, can help in early detection of misalignments, ensuring proactive care and long-term wellness.

We Are Here To Help

Dr. Gordon Elder, of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas, is a renowned expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This method emphasizes the use of advanced 3D diagnostic imaging, ensuring an unparalleled examination of the spine for precise assessment.

Upon identifying spinal issues, specialists like Dr. Elder employ the Blair technique's hallmark approach: precise, gentle, and low-pressure adjustments. This contrasts with some traditional chiropractic methods, offering an experience where patients often feel no discomfort during adjustments.

Dr. Elder's treatment is outlined in a systematic three-step plan, catering to a myriad of health conditions. The journey commences with a comprehensive health evaluation. The subsequent stage revolves around the therapeutic process, anchored by adjustments aiming to realign the body's intrinsic structure. The final step emphasizes prevention, advocating for routine chiropractic evaluations to stave off future complications.

Upper cervical care stands as a non-intrusive, medication-free remedy, demonstrating efficacy across a diverse array of symptoms and ailments. If you're contemplating this therapeutic avenue, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Elder for inquiries. His practice caters to residents in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as those in Hobbs, New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Health Issues Can Be Caused By Neck Misalignments

Usually, people think about calling a chiropractor when they have neck pain or back pain. What they don't realize is that there are so many other conditions caused by misalignments of the upper cervical spine. This is a vulnerable area of the spine that protects nerves with essential functions. Unfortunately, the neck area is prone to injury, and when there is even a minute misalignment it can result in a domino effect, causing issues throughout the rest of the body. 

You might be surprised to find some of the following health problems may have roots in the neck—or, more specifically, the upper cervical spine. 

What Is the Upper Cervical Spine

The upper cervical spine consists of the seven top vertebrae that begin at the base of the skull and run down the neck. The upper cervical spine protects the spinal cord where it connects to the brain. This area is close to many clusters of vital nerves and vessels. This part of the spine also is responsible for carrying the weight of the head and the movement of the head and neck. 

When any of the vertebrae slip out of alignment in this part of the spine, it causes inflammation and swelling that can compress or pinch nerves. These nerves carry signals running between the brain and the rest of the body, controlling all of the body's functions. Compression can result in misfired or disrupted signals. 

Another host of problems that come from a misalignment of the upper cervical spine involves posture. When vertebrae of the neck are misaligned, the body shifts to compensate so that you can keep your head up straight. This shift is not usually noticeable, but it puts undue stress on other vertebrae, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons throughout the rest of the body. In time causes more misalignments, muscles that are overly tight or over-stretched, and a great deal of wear and tear on the musculoskeletal system. 

Common Health Issues Caused By Upper Cervical Misalignments

• Headache Issues—chronic headache disorders such as tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. 

• Inner Ear Problems—chronic ear aches, infections, vertigo, or Meniere’s disease.

• Musculoskeletal Disorders—rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or fibromyalgia.

• Pinched Nerve Conditions—sciatica, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, or trigeminal neuralgia. 

• Digestive Disorders—indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or malabsorption of nutrients. 

How Our Treatment Works

Dr. Gordon Elder is an upper cervical specialist at the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas. Dr. Elder is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern technique in chiropractic care that utilizes cutting-edge technology for more precise calculations of the spine. This allows for special, gentle manipulations that are far more comfortable for patients because they are not sharp and jarring as with traditional chiropractic care. 

Chiropractic care is a safe, natural, non-invasive, drug-free way to treat many issues that can stem from misalignments of the upper cervical spine. Dr. Elder's treatment begins with a consultation that includes a thorough health screening and advanced 3D diagnostic imaging tools. 

Once Dr. Elder assesses the problems, the next step is the healing phase. The doctor uses specialized low-pressure manipulations to gently restore the proper alignment of the spine. 

The third step in Dr. Elder's treatment plan includes preventative measures. Adding regular chiropractic care to your health routine is a great way to ensure your spine remains in good health. 

If you have health issues, contact Dr. Elder to see how upper cervical care might help. Dr. Elder's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

The Unknown Conditions You Didn't Think Chiropractic Care Can Treat

There are a lot of chronic conditions that people may have, and it can be very frustrating. Sometimes, problems can go on for years and doctors can't figure out the root cause of their pain or discomfort. 

Before you give up hope on your unknown condition, consider seeing an upper cervical chiropractor. It may surprise you to discover just how integral your spine's health is to your overall health and well-being. 

Why Spinal Health Is Vital to Your Overall Health

Just consider the important job the spine has: it protects the spinal cord. The brain and the spinal cord together make up the Central Nervous System (CNS). The spinal cord carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. This is how the brain regulates all of the body's functions. 

If even one vertebra slips out of place, it can cause health problems in other parts of the body. Nerves may become pinched or compressed, and important vessels may be blocked, signals can be disrupted, and this can set off a domino effect throughout the system. 

One vertebra out of place can result in excessive stress on other joints, muscles, ligaments,  or tendons. The problem kicks off a chain event throughout the musculoskeletal system. 

When the spine is realigned to a healthy state, however, it reduces inflammation, removes pressure and strain, allows for nerve signals to flow freely, and bodily functions can resume. The body's natural healing mechanisms are triggered to help restore health and wellness. 

What Kind of Conditions Can Chiropractors Treat?

While many people call the chiropractor to work on back or neck pain, chiropractors can treat many more conditions. Auto-immune diseases, chronic pain, mobility impairments, headache disorders, joint diseases, nerve conditions, or postural problems may all be connected to the state of the spine. 

The spine's health can play a role in everything from sleep disorders to depression and anxiety to the immune system itself. When there is a problem impeding the central nervous system from doing its job, there is no limit to the symptoms that may manifest. 

How Our Treatment Works

We treat a variety of symptoms at the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas. Dr. Gordon Elder is trained in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. The Blair technique is a specialization in upper cervical care, combining advanced technology with modern chiropractic hands-on methods. 

Dr. Elder begins treatment with a screening that includes state-of-the-art 3D diagnostic imaging tools. This is how Blair practitioners can pinpoint and calculate any misalignments, no matter how minute. 

The second step in Dr. Elder's treatment plan is the healing process. Because of the advanced scans, Dr. Elder makes adjustments with a higher degree of precision, allowing him to use a lighter touch that is far more comfortable for patients than traditional chiropractic jerks and twists. 

The final step in Dr. Elder's treatment plan involves ongoing care to prevent problems in the future.

You don't have to live with your symptoms. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free, natural alternative treatment that helps bring patients relief from many different conditions. Contact Dr. Elder to see how he can help you. The doctor's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

At What Point Should You See A Chiropractor?

Many people think a chiropractor is a doctor you go to after a car accident or serious back injury at work. And while it is true, these are good times to call for an appointment, there are also many other times you may benefit from chiropractic care. 

It may surprise you to know that chiropractors can help with a wide range of health conditions, diseases, and symptoms for people of all ages. The health of the spine is vitally connected to the function of all of the body's systems. 

Here are just some of the problems a chiropractor may be able to help with:

After Accidents and Injuries

Any accidents or injuries—even seemingly small ones—can cause misalignments of the spine. This is particularly true of the upper cervical area (the neck), the most vulnerable part of the spine. You may not realize you have a misalignment and can go for years before nagging little aches and pains become debilitating problems. 

For Allergies, Sinus Issues, and Earaches

The upper cervical spine begins at the base of the skull, close to clusters of nerves and tubes that go throughout the head and face. A misalignment that causes inflammation and swelling may compress these passages, leading to blockages and the build-up of fluids.

When You Suffer from Headaches or Headache Disorders

Ordinary headaches can be a result of stress and tension in the neck, back, and face. This is often due to misalignments of the spine. Even worse, headache disorders, such as migraines or cluster headaches, are often due to nerves being pinched or compressed. 

When You Are Sedentary

There are many reasons why people don't get enough exercise—having to work at a desk, mobility issues, or health problems, to name a few. Either way, sitting for long periods puts three times more pressure on your spine than standing or walking. When we sit and use electronic devices, we tend to look down, extend the neck, and hunch the shoulders, which can result in maladaptive postures, disc degeneration, digestive issues, breathing issues, or nerve problems. A chiropractor can help restore proper posture and alignment and alleviate some of the stress caused by sitting. 

As a Preventative Measure

When it comes to your health, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Chiropractors can be part of your regular healthcare routine, along with medical check-ups, dentists, and gynecologists. Since the spine plays such a major role in the body’s overall health and wellness, adding chiropractic care to your healthcare routine can save you a lot of pain and trouble in the long run. 

Call Us For An Appointment

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an upper cervical specialist who is a trained practitioner of the Blair Chiropractic Technique. Blair practitioners embrace advanced technology such as 3D diagnostic imaging tools to get a better understanding of their patient's spines. They also specialized in hands-on manipulations that are gentler and longer-lasting than the jarring snaps and twists associated with traditional chiropractic care. 

Dr. Elder treats patients using three simple steps. The first step involves a thorough assessment with advanced diagnostic tools so he can pinpoint problems. The second involves low-pressure adjustments to restore proper alignment of the spine and facilitate healing. The third is by continuing preventative care to avoid future problems by nipping any issues in the bud. 

Contact Dr. Elder to see how upper cervical care can help you. You might be surprised at how much of your health is connected to this vital area. Dr. Elder's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Seeing A Chiropractor When You Feel Good Is A Great Idea

A lot of people call the chiropractor for an appointment after an accident or injury, or when that old nagging back and neck pain has started flaring up again. Of course, this is a good time to make that appointment, but it's not the best time. 

What is the best time to make an appointment with your chiropractor? Actually, the best time to see a chiropractor is when you feel great. Here's why.

Preventative Chiropractic Care

Few people realize the importance of the musculoskeletal system in one's overall health. Any misalignment of the spine sets off a cascade of problems through the rest of the musculoskeletal system. Your body shifts to adjust for the misalignment and it causes undue stress on other muscles, joints, and ligaments. 

In addition to aches and pains, the spine is also responsible for protecting the spinal cord. The spinal cord and the brain work together to send signals throughout the body and regulate all of our essential systems. When the spine is misaligned, it may pinch or compress nerves and disrupt the signals. In time, this can cause a wide variety of health problems.

Benefits of Proactive Chiropractic Care

Boost your immune system—one of those important systems that rely on nerve signals is the immune system. If misfiring nerves cause your immune system to malfunction, it can make it more difficult for your body to fight against disease and various health conditions. Keeping your spine healthy helps keep the immune system functioning at optimal levels so it is at its best when fighting off infections, colds, and flu. 

Avoid aches and pains— when you spend too many hours hunched over a desk, bending to clean, picking up heavy objects, or sleeping on a lumpy mattress, you'll eventually have some pain. Why wait for it, though? Going to a chiropractor for regular wellness check-ups can help keep your musculoskeletal system in proper alignment so that you avoid those aches and pains altogether. 

Better Night's Sleep—pain in the daytime when you're trying to go about your work and chores is bad enough; pain at night causes problems. Sleep deprivation can lead to some serious health problems. Chiropractic care helps prevent the problems that may get in the way of you getting sound rest throughout the night. A good night's sleep helps you feel better, improves your mood, and gives you more energy. 

Saves money—preventative care helps you stay in good health, which means fewer trips to the doctor, physical therapist, or other specialists. It means you won't need as many prescription or over-the-counter drugs, or medical assistive devices such as heating pads, ice packs, braces, bandages, etc. This also means fewer medical bills, co-payments, and expenses. You can also avoid taking off more time from work than necessary.

Let Us Help Keep You Healthy

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is a specialist in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. Blair practitioners use cutting-edge technology to examine your anatomy for better, longer-lasting adjustments.

Dr. Elder follows a three-step plan for patients. The first step involves a thorough health assessment involving a consultation and 3D diagnostic imaging tools. 

The second step involves gentle corrections to help restore the spine's proper alignment. Thanks to the advanced technology during the assessment, the doctor can apply precise corrections using a light touch. 

The third step involves adding chiropractic care to your regular health and wellness routine to ensure corrections remain intact and to nip further problems in the bud. 

If you want to give preventative chiropractic care a try so that you can avoid common health problems, contact Dr. Elder. His areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Is There A Difference Between Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care?

Living with pain after an illness or an injury can be difficult. At best, it can be a nagging problem that frustrates you when you try to go about your daily routine. At worst, pain can be debilitating, interfere with your ability to work or carry on with your responsibilities, and make you miserable. 

Most people don't have to live with chronic pain, or can at least find some relief and reduction of symptoms by seeking treatment with a chiropractor or a physical therapist. Which would be best for you? That depends—here are some things to consider. 

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists help to rehabilitate people after they suffer from an injury or illness that causes pain and/or debilitation. In some cases, if you have a degenerative disorder or other diseases, physical therapy may be recommended as an intervention for pain or to slow down the condition. 

After an initial assessment of the problem, the physical therapist will design a treatment plan that may include strength training, mobility training, stretching, massage, or joint mobilization. 

Physical therapy is usually a short-term treatment plan lasting from a few weeks to a few months. Periodically during this treatment period, the therapist will reassess your progress and report to your doctor. 

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractors also treat patients who have suffered from an illness or injury, and they may treat patients with chronic disorders. They also treat healthy people as a part of a comprehensive preventative care effort. 

Chiropractors examine the spine for misalignments in the vertebrae, which can lead to a variety of problems. Misalignments of the spine can affect the musculoskeletal system, causing pain and inflammation. Misalignments can also affect the nervous system,  impeding the flow of nerve signals between the brain and the body. This can interrupt a wide range of bodily functions.

After an initial assessment, chiropractors make adjustments or apply a variety of methods to help correct the spine to relieve pain, decrease inflammation, and allow the Central Nervous System (CNS) to function optimally. 

Which Is Right for You?

There is some overlap between physical therapists and chiropractors. Both offer natural, non-invasive, drug-free treatment options for various conditions and pains. 

If you have an injury or illness that impairs your mobility, you may wish to consult a physical therapist. 

If you have general pain related to the musculoskeletal system or conditions related to the nervous system, a chiropractor might be best for you. Likewise, if preventative healthcare is your aim, chiropractors are your best alternative.

Of course, you don't have to choose—many people work through injuries and illnesses with both physical therapy and chiropractic care. 

How Our Chiropractic Treatment Works

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas uses the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique to treat patients. The Blair technique is a specialty utilizing advanced 3D diagnostic imaging tools to apply more precise corrections with low-pressure methods. 

Dr. Elder generally treats patients using a three-step model. The first step involves a thorough health screening, which includes 3D imaging scans so that the doctor can get a sense of your unique anatomy and pinpoint any problem areas. The second step involves corrections. State-of-the-art technology allows for a more exact application of adjustments, allowing the doctor to do so with a gentler touch. 

The third and final step involves ongoing preventative care. Dr. Elder recommends regular chiropractic check-ups to patients so that problems can be nipped in the bud. 

If you're interested in what chiropractic care can do for you, contact Dr. Elder for an appointment. The doctor's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.