Common Causes
Why Are Neck Misalignments So Common?
The top two neck bones (C1 and C2) are unique in their design and function. The purpose of their differences compared to the rest of the spine is to facilitate a larger range of motion that no other part of the spine is capable of. For example, C1 (top neck bone) is responsible for about half of your “up and down” mobility, whereas C2 provides about half of your “side to side” mobility. There are seven total bones in the neck, but the first TWO account for approximately HALF of all head movement. The flexibility here, and the ability to move more freely comes with a much greater susceptibility to injury.
Causes of Neck Misalignment
First, the birth process can place significant stress on a newborn’s spine. During delivery, gentle twisting and pulling of the baby’s head can exert 60–90 pounds of pressure on the neck. Fortunately, upper cervical adjustments for infants are extremely gentle and safe.
Next, car accidents and whiplash are major contributors. Even at speeds as low as 5 mph, the head’s rapid forward-backward motion can misalign the atlas. While rest and ice can ease swelling, only specialized upper cervical care can restore proper alignment and neurological function.
In addition, poor posture and “text neck” from looking down at phones or computers put excessive strain on the neck—up to 60 pounds of force when the head tilts forward. Over time, this creates structural imbalance that requires correction.
Moreover, sports injuries and concussions often disturb the upper cervical spine, especially in contact or high-impact activities like football, skiing, or horseback riding.
Furthermore, stress and toxins tighten neck muscles and increase physiological pressure. Environmental toxins, poor diet, and even self-adjusting the neck can worsen misalignments.
Lastly, slips and falls, especially in childhood, can cause early spinal shifts that accumulate over time. Regular upper cervical checkups help protect spinal health and support optimal growth and development.
Brainstem Protection Starts at the Top of the Spine
The protection of the brainstem, optimum blood flow to the brain, and proper drainage of cerebrospinal fluid are all fully dependent on the function and alignment of the top two neck bones. Therefore, these critical functions of the brain and nervous system are compromised with a neck misalignment. This is why misalignments of the Upper Cervical Spine (upper neck) often lead to chronic health conditions such as migraines, fibromyalgia, asthma, MS, TMJ dysfunction and so much more. With the right care and education, we finally have a choice in how long we want to live this way.
If you have symptoms of an Upper Cervical misalignment, suffered from head or neck trauma, use poor posture, been exposed to toxins or stress, it is best to have the delicate upper neck bones examined by an Upper Cervical Chiropractic Specialist. An Upper Cervical Chiropractor can determine if you have a neck misalignment in order to restore brain/body communication.
Source: Upper Cervical Spine