Why Does Our Office Use Two Chiropractic Techniques?
Atlas Orthogonal and Activator aren’t two versions of the same adjustment. Each technique serves a different purpose and works with different areas of the body.
Atlas Orthogonal focuses on the atlas, which sits at the top of the neck. The Activator can be used on other parts of the spine and on extremity joints.
Having both options allows our doctors to choose the instrument that fits the joint being evaluated. It doesn’t mean every patient needs both techniques during every appointment.
Upper Cervical Technique
How Does Atlas Orthogonal Work?
and why is it used?
The atlas is the first vertebra of the upper cervical spine. It sits directly beneath the skull and plays an important role in head and neck movement.
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When this area isn’t moving as expected, it may contribute to stiffness, limited motion, or discomfort in the upper neck. An Atlas Orthogonal adjustment focuses only on this area.
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The goal is to improve movement and joint mechanics at the top of the neck. Some patients may also notice changes in neck comfort or range of motion. Results vary, and not every patient needs an atlas adjustment.
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Before your first adjustment, your doctor reviews your examination findings and detailed X-rays. Measurements from those images help determine the direction of the adjustment.
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During the adjustment, you remain in a supported position with your neck neutral. A stationary instrument delivers a quick, controlled impulse near the side of your neck.
Why Choose Atlas Orthogonal Instead of a Traditional Neck Adjustment?
Traditional manual neck adjustments often use the doctor’s hands and a quick movement of the joint. Atlas Orthogonal uses an instrument and doesn’t require rapid neck rotation.
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Your doctor may choose Atlas Orthogonal when your examination and X-rays point to a concern involving the atlas. It may also be considered for patients who prefer an instrument-assisted technique without rotational neck movement.
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Atlas Orthogonal isn’t automatically better than every other chiropractic technique. It offers a focused option for the upper neck when the doctor’s findings support its use.
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At later visits, your doctor will check the atlas before deciding if another adjustment is needed. It isn’t automatically adjusted at every appointment.
