Atlas Orthogonal is one of several upper cervical chiropractic approaches focused on the atlas, or C1 vertebra, at the top of the neck. The atlas supports the head and plays an important role in movement, posture and the mechanics of the upper cervical spine.
At Spinal Care of Nevada, Dr. Devin Luzod uses advanced postgraduate training in upper cervical techniques, including NUCCA principles, to evaluate the top of the neck. Our practice focuses primarily on NUCCA principles and whole-spine care rather than operating as an exclusive Atlas Orthogonal instrument office. We evaluate patients seeking precise, gentle upper cervical care and determine what approach is appropriate for each individual.
The atlas, also called C1, is the first vertebra in the neck. It sits directly beneath the skull and allows a significant amount of head and neck movement.
Because of its location, changes in movement or mechanics around the atlas can be associated with changes in neck motion, muscle tension and posture. A careful upper cervical evaluation looks at how this area is functioning along with the rest of the spine.
Atlas Orthogonal and NUCCA are both approaches within upper cervical chiropractic, but they are not identical techniques.
Both emphasize careful assessment of the upper cervical spine and gentle, precise correction rather than forceful twisting or cracking. They differ in their specific evaluation methods and the way an adjustment is delivered.
At our Summerlin office, our care is based primarily on Dr. Luzod’s advanced NUCCA and upper cervical training and is integrated with whole-spine evaluation and care. You can read more about NUCCA chiropractic care in Summerlin on our About NUCCA page.
Some patients specifically search for Atlas Orthogonal, NUCCA or upper cervical chiropractic because they prefer a gentle, low-force approach. Others come to us because they have ongoing neck pain, headaches and migraines, dizziness or other musculoskeletal concerns and want a more detailed evaluation.
Our goal is not to assume that every symptom comes from the atlas. We first evaluate the patient, determine what findings are present and explain whether upper cervical or other chiropractic care may be appropriate.
Upper cervical care is one part of the Spinal Care of Nevada approach. Depending on the individual, care may also include gentle instrument-assisted adjustments with ArthroStim, soft tissue techniques, digital X-rays when clinically appropriate, low-level laser therapy and customized posture, stretching or strengthening recommendations.
No. They are separate upper cervical chiropractic approaches. Both focus on careful evaluation and gentle correction of the upper cervical region, but their analysis and adjustment procedures differ.
Upper cervical approaches such as NUCCA are known for using gentle, precise, low-force procedures rather than forceful twisting or cracking.
No. Care should be based on an individual evaluation. We assess the upper cervical spine along with the rest of the spine and recommend care based on the patient’s findings and needs.
If you are looking for Atlas Orthogonal, NUCCA or gentle upper cervical chiropractic in Summerlin or Las Vegas, schedule a complimentary consultation at Spinal Care of Nevada to learn whether our approach may be a good fit for you.
