Why We Focus on Upper Cervical Care in Hiawatha: A Unique Approach to Chiropractic Care

Why We Focus on Upper Cervical Care in Hiawatha: A Unique Approach to Chiropractic Care

At our upper cervical chiropractic office in Hiawatha, IA, we take a specialized approach to spinal health that sets us apart from traditional chiropractic care. Unlike conventional chiropractors who focus on general spinal adjustments, we prioritize upper cervical care, specifically utilizing the Knee Chest Upper Cervical technique—a rare and highly specialized method aimed at correcting misalignments in the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae.

Before we opened our doors on January 5, 2022, there was no chiropractor in Cedar Rapids or the surrounding areas offering this kind of precise, nervous-system-based upper cervical chiropractic care. Today, our office proudly serves patients from Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha, Marion, Iowa City, and Coralville, but also as far away as Davenport, Burlington, Muscatine, Kalona, and up to three hours away, as we remain the closest Knee Chest Upper Cervical chiropractic office to the southeast region of Iowa.

In this article, we’ll dive into why we focus on Upper Cervical care here in Hiawatha, how it’s different from traditional chiropractic, why the Knee Chest Upper Cervical technique is unique, and how our neurology-based chiropractic approach helps patients with a wide range of chronic conditions.

What is Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care?

Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses exclusively on the top two vertebrae of the spine—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These bones play a critical role in:

• Supporting the head and facilitating movement
• Protecting the brainstem (which controls vital body functions)
• Ensuring proper nerve communication between the brain and body

Unlike full-spine chiropractic adjustments, upper cervical care is highly specific and does not involve aggressive twisting or cracking. Instead, we use precise diagnostic imaging to assess even the slightest misalignment in the atlas and axis, then apply gentle corrections to restore balance and function.

How Upper Cervical Care is Different from Traditional Chiropractic

Most chiropractors focus on general spinal alignment, using high-velocity, forceful adjustments on multiple areas of the spine. While this can provide relief, it doesn’t address the root cause of many neurological and musculoskeletal issues.

Here’s how upper cervical chiropractic care differs from traditional chiropractic:

1. Focus on the Brainstem & Nervous System

• The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) surround the brainstem, which regulates crucial functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion.
• Even a small atlas misalignment can disrupt brain-body communication, leading to chronic issues like migraines, vertigo, TMJ pain, fibromyalgia, and neurological disorders.

2. Precision-Based Adjustments

• We don’t do “one-size-fits-all” spinal adjustments. Instead, we use advanced diagnostic imaging for spinal health, allowing us to tailor each adjustment to the patient’s unique misalignment.
• Adjustments are made only when needed, reducing unnecessary force on the body.

3. Long-Lasting Results

• Because upper cervical adjustments are so precise, they often hold longer than traditional spinal adjustments.
• This means fewer visits, better stability, and lasting improvements in pain relief and nervous system function.

Why We Use the Knee Chest Upper Cervical Technique

Our office specializes in the Knee Chest Upper Cervical technique, which is one of the most effective ways to correct atlas misalignment and restore nervous system function.

Here’s what makes Knee Chest Upper Cervical chiropractic care unique:

• Gentle yet Effective: Instead of forceful, twisting adjustments, we use a comfortable knee-chest table where the patient rests with the head turned in a relaxed position.
• Highly Specific: Adjustments are based on precise measurements from paraspinal imaging, digital X-rays, and neurological assessments.
• Improves Brainstem Function: Correcting atlas misalignment can relieve brainstem pressure, which can reduce symptoms like vertigo, TMJ pain, migraines, and chronic fatigue.

While only three offices in Iowa provide this technique, we are the closest to the southeast side of Iowa, making us a vital resource for patients seeking non-invasive, neurology-based chiropractic care.

A Nervous System & Neurology-Based Chiropractic Office

What sets us apart from other chiropractors in Hiawatha, Cedar Rapids, and Eastern Iowa is that we are not just focused on the spine—we are focused on the nervous system.

At our office, we emphasize:

1. Brainstem Alignment & Health

• Misalignments in the atlas (C1) vertebra can put pressure on the brainstem, disrupting communication between the brain and body.
• By restoring proper upper cervical alignment, we help regulate essential functions controlled by the nervous system.

2. Nervous System Optimization

• We assess neurological function to determine how misalignment is affecting brain-body communication.
• This allows us to address chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, dizziness, migraines, and multiple sclerosis at their root cause.

3. Personalized Chiropractic Treatment Plans

• Every patient receives a customized care plan designed to support long-term healing, not just symptom relief.

Why Patients Travel from Up to Two Hours Away

Upper Cervical Chiropractic care often is able to achieve results where other types of care have been unable to. Patients who have been under Chiropractic care for years, in some cases, may still be struggling with headaches. But after starting Upper Cervical Care they immediately start to notice a reducing in the intensity and frequency of their headaches. Because upper cervical care and Knee Chest Upper Cervical chiropractic are so rare, many of our patients drive long distances to receive care.

We frequently serve patients from:

• Hiawatha
• Marion
• Cedar Rapids
• Ely
• Palo
• Center Point
• Independence
• North Liberty
• Iowa City
• Coralville
• Riverside
• Washinton
• Columbus Junction
• Mt Pleasant
• Davenport
• Burlington
• Muscatine
• Maquoketa
• Anamosa
• Monticello
• Kalona
• Southeast Iowa

Many of these patients have spent years struggling with chronic pain, neurological disorders, and unresolved health issues—only to find lasting relief through upper cervical chiropractic care.

The Need for Upper Cervical Care in Cedar Rapids & Eastern Iowa

Before we opened our practice on January 5, 2022, there was no Knee Chest Upper Cervical chiropractor in Cedar Rapids or the surrounding areas.

Since our opening, we have seen an overwhelming demand for this type of care, as patients seek natural, non-invasive solutions for conditions like:

• TMJ dysfunction and jaw pain
• Migraines and chronic headaches
• Vertigo and dizziness
• Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
• Multiple sclerosis and neurological disorders

As the only upper cervical chiropractor in Cedar Rapids using the Knee Chest technique, we are proud to offer a specialized approach to spinal care that was previously unavailable in this region.

Conclusion: A New Standard for Chiropractic Care in Hiawatha & Cedar Rapids

Upper cervical care is more than just spinal adjustments—it’s about restoring neurological balance, brainstem function, and whole-body health.

Our focus on Knee Chest Upper Cervical chiropractic care allows us to offer patients a unique, effective, and non-invasive approach to healing.

Whether you’re from Hiawatha, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Burlington, Muscatine, or beyond, we are here to provide the highest level of upper cervical chiropractic care in Eastern Iowa.

If you’re looking for lasting relief from chronic conditions, TMJ pain, migraines, vertigo, or neurological dysfunction, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with the best upper cervical chiropractor near you.