Migraines can be debilitating for those who suffer from them, often causing people to miss out on many of the activities they enjoy most in life. When most people think about a headache, they naturally assume the pain originates in the head. However, research has suggested that the source of many headaches may actually begin in the neck.
In fact, a well-known statement published in the Journal of the American Medical Association once noted that headaches are often quite literally “a pain in the neck.”
This raises an important question: if headaches may originate in the neck, why do most medications focus on numbing the pain in the head?
One reason many people rely on these medications is that they tend to work quickly. When a migraine strikes, most people want relief as fast as possible. While medication may temporarily reduce the sensation of pain, it does not necessarily address the structural issues that may be contributing to the problem.
Before exploring another approach, it is helpful to briefly look at some of the medications commonly used for migraines and the potential side effects that can accompany them.
Common Migraine Medications and Possible Side Effects
Some frequently prescribed migraine medications include Maxalt, Imitrex, Zomig, and Relpax.
While these medications may help reduce pain temporarily, they can also be associated with side effects such as:
- Tingling, burning, or other unusual sensations
- Abdominal discomfort
- Pain in the throat, neck, or jaw
- Nausea
- Weakness or fatigue
Because of these potential effects, some individuals begin looking for alternative approaches that focus on the structural factors that may influence migraines.
The Upper Neck and the Nervous System
The uppermost bones of the spine—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—play a crucial role in supporting the head and protecting the brainstem. The brainstem is a vital structure responsible for relaying communication between the brain and the body.
If the atlas becomes misaligned, even slightly, it may place abnormal stress on surrounding tissues and the delicate structures of the upper neck. Some research and clinical observations suggest that this misalignment can interfere with normal neurological communication as well as the movement of blood and cerebrospinal fluid.
What makes the upper cervical spine particularly important is its sensitivity. A shift as small as a fraction of a millimeter can alter the body’s structural balance. Over time, this imbalance may contribute to tension, strain, and changes in how the nervous system functions.
A Precise Approach to Atlas Alignment
At Advanced Spinal Care in Washington, we focus on evaluating and correcting a condition known as Atlas Subluxation using a specialized technique called NUCCA.
NUCCA stands for the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association. This procedure is designed specifically to assess and correct alignment of the atlas vertebra.
Unlike many traditional chiropractic methods, the NUCCA adjustment:
- Does not involve twisting, cracking, or popping the spine
- Uses precise measurements and imaging to determine the exact misalignment
- Applies a very gentle and controlled correction
- Focuses on restoring proper alignment of the atlas vertebra and upper cervical spine
The adjustment itself is extremely light—often described as a gentle pressure applied at a specific angle. Because of the precision involved, the goal is not repeated forceful adjustments but rather helping the spine return to a balanced position and allowing the body to stabilize.
When the atlas is properly aligned, the body may have a greater opportunity to maintain balance, improve posture, and support healthy nervous system communication.
Supporting the Body’s Natural Function
The focus of NUCCA care is not on treating individual symptoms, but on correcting Atlas Subluxation and restoring structural alignment at the top of the spine. When the upper cervical spine is balanced, the body often functions more efficiently.
Many patients choose this approach because it addresses the structural relationship between the head, neck, and nervous system rather than focusing solely on temporary pain relief.
Schedule a NUCCA Evaluation
If you would like to learn more about how the alignment of the upper cervical spine may affect overall body function, a NUCCA evaluation can help determine whether Atlas Subluxation may be present.
To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click the button below.
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Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/