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. John Asks some important questions of interest to Gig Harbor residents - Chiropractor Gig Harbor Dr. John Asks...

Will chiropractic adjustments make my spine too loose?
No. Only the spinal joints that are fixated and "locked up" receive attention. The occasional spinal joint that moves too much is passed over so weakened muscles and ligaments can strengthen and heal.
Can babies with colic be helped with chiropractic?
It's probably one of the times a parent feels the most helpless. But based on the research, chiropractic and colic relief appear to go hand in glove. With success rates in the mid-90% range, more and more Gig Harbor parents are seeing a chiropractor. If you have a baby with colic learn how chiropractic may help.