Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic

Upper Cervical Care

Atlas Orthogonal is a gentle, precise adjustment technique used to correct the position of the first cervical vertebra, the Atlas. Proper alignment of the Atlas reduces pressure on the nervous system and restores normal biomechanics. Though the adjustment uses light force, its effects can often be felt throughout the body.

Chiropractic and Biomechanics

The Atlas is the top bone of the spine, directly supporting the head. "Orthogonal" means at right angles or square, indicating that the Atlas should be level on the cervical spine (neck), and the head should be square on the Atlas. When aligned correctly, it literally means your head is on straight!

Misaligned vertebrae, or subluxations, can cause compression, tension, irritation, and damage to the nervous system, potentially affecting distant parts of the body.

How Atlas Orthogonal Works

The Atlas Orthogonal technique begins with precise digital x-rays taken at Enliven Chiropractic. These images are analyzed to determine the exact misalignment. Using this information, specific vectors are calculated for a gentle correction.

The instrument stylus lightly touches the patient and applies a portion of a sound wave to the Atlas, making the necessary adjustment. This technique allows for a highly precise correction with minimal physical pressure, eliminating patient discomfort. After the initial treatment, the doctor may confirm the subluxation correction through x-ray analysis.

About the Atlas Orthogonal Adjusting Instrument

The Atlas Orthogonal precision instrument delivers a chiropractic adjustment based on the specific misalignment findings from your x-rays. It uses a percussion sound wave through a metal stylus, applying about 3.5 pounds of pressure. This gentle touch is enough to correct the misalignment while ensuring patient comfort. The precise nature of the instrument allows for effective treatment with minimal discomfort.

Upper Cervical Care in West Virginia

Dr. James Leonette is one of the few upper cervical chiropractors in West Virginia. He was awarded the Board Certified Atlas Orthogonist (B.C.A.O.) designation by Sherman College of Chiropractic in 2014.