If anyone finds mistakes or omissions, email me at
info@nardifamilychiropractic.com and I'll add them here so we have one place to go without having to scroll through a bunch of posts. Remember, this is an intentionally over-simplified explanation. For more details take Dr. Kessinger's course on Upper Cervical Adjusting....
First and foremost there must be laterality to be a subluxation
"If the patient doesn't clear, flip them over and adjust the other side" -Sid Williams (loosely quoted)
Atlas Analysis
1. On AP: ...check the distance between lateral masses and the dens. If one side has a greater distance, it is your side of laterality
2. On Lateral: check for inf, sup tipping of atlas on dens, a "v" like space = Atlas is inferior, an upside down "V" = atlas is superior
Axis Analysis
1. AP: draw the foramen Magnum line and drop a vertical bisecting the FM line, this line should bisect the dens. If it does not you have laterality on the side of greater distance.
2. Check spinous and pedicles for rotation..if one pedicle appears larger than the other it indicates the side of rotation
3. On Lateral: C2 can only move posterior because of C1, check inf articular pillar for sup or inf
Posture
1. If high ear...adjust Atlas according to x-ray listing
2. If low shoulder...adjust Axis according to x-ray listing
Temperature
1. Looking for bilateral temp difference no greater than .5 degrees C, even bilat temp is ideal
0-.3 deg difference = healthy function
.3-.6 deg difference = active pathology in 18% of people
.7-.9 deg difference = active pathology in 54% of people
greater than .9 deg difference = active pathology in 92% of people
2. If temp difference is greater than .5 C adjust Atlas according to x-ray listing
3. As long as they are in pattern (same reading over and over) keep adjusting the same way. When the pattern changes leave them alone...you are looking for change...if a new pattern develops, recheck listing findings as you may need to change the adjustment.
Any info on how to adjust them if you do not have an x-ray? (you could just get an x-ray unit)
Leg Length
No notes, need help for post....
