The upper cervical region is one of the most crucial areas of the body in terms of maintaining ideal functionality. Every signal directly to and from the brain stem travels through this region, with millions of signals passing through per minute. This region is where signals pass that regulate heartbeat, breathing, muscle coordination, blood flow (dilation and constriction of blood vessels), digestion and so much more.
Unfortunately, the human body has not adapted strong natural protections against stress, pressure, friction and shock to this region, which has no cushioning discs and has fewer ligaments to support the structure. Because these bones also move differently than the rest of the spine—horizontal as opposed to vertical—they are also under more pressure regularly.
As such, when this region is exposed to even small amounts of shock and trauma it can create major systemic issues from the immune system to vital functions. Correcting these misalignments using the upper cervical technique can be essential to helping patients recover from sickness, injury and in maintaining health and wellness.