1350 Blairs Ferry Road, Suite B Hiawatha, IA 52233 I 319-343-8540
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Your Most Common Questions About Upper Cervical Care & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Patients come to Atlas Specific Chiropractic with questions about what we do, how we do it, and what makes us different. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions we receive about upper cervical chiropractic, our process, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and what to expect during care.
Top 25 Most Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes Atlas Specific Chiropractic different from regular chiropractic?
We specialize exclusively in the upper cervical spine (C1 and C2) using precise measurements, functional neurological scans, and the AHKC (Advanced HIO Knee-Chest) technique.
There is no twisting, cracking, or popping. Instead, we use a gentle, precise correction based on X-rays measured to 1/100th of a degree and millimeter.
2. What exactly is upper cervical care?
Upper cervical care focuses on correcting structural misalignments of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—the two bones that protect the brainstem and influence the entire nervous system.
By restoring balance at the top of the spine, the body can heal and function at a higher level.
3. What symptoms or conditions does upper cervical care help with?
We commonly see patients with:
-Headaches & migraines
-Vertigo & dizziness
-Neck pain & stiffness
-TMJ issues
-Tinnitus & ear fullness
-Brain fog
-Trigeminal neuralgia
-Fibromyalgia
-Post-concussion symptoms
-Chronic pain
-Neuropathy
-Whiplash injuries
-And other neurological or mechanical issues
We don’t treat conditions—we correct the cause.
4. What happens during the first visit?
Your first visit includes:
-A detailed consultation
-Functional neurological scans (Tytron thermography)
-An upper cervical exam
-Three specialized X-rays of the upper neck
If appropriate, you may receive your first correction on Day 1. Otherwise, your correction may occur on Day 2 after the doctor has analyzed the films.
5. What happens during the second visit?
On Visit 2, your doctor reviews:
-Your X-rays
-Your scan results
-Your exact misalignment measurements
-Your personalized care plan
You’ll receive your upper cervical correction, and we’ll teach you what to expect as your body begins to heal.
6. Do upper cervical adjustments hurt?
No. The correction is extremely gentle. Most people describe it as a light pressure behind the ear.
There is no twisting, cracking, or manual manipulation.
7. How long does it take to feel results?
Responses vary:
-Some patients feel relief immediately
-Others see steady improvements over weeks
-Chronic or complex conditions may take longer
Healing depends on the severity of the misalignment, how long it’s been present, and your overall health.
8. How often will I need to come in?
This depends on your condition and healing response.
Our goal is always the same:
Correct the problem, stabilize the correction, and reduce the need for frequent adjustments.
9. What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)?
HBOT involves breathing concentrated oxygen inside a pressurized chamber.
Our office uses a mild/soft vertical chamber that reaches 1.3 ATA and is handicap accessible.
Sessions are 90 minutes total (60 minutes at full pressure).
10. What conditions does HBOT help with?
HBOT may support healing for:
-Concussions & MTBI
-Post-concussion syndrome
-Inflammation
-Chronic pain
-Neuropathy
-Fatigue
-Brain fog
-Long COVID
-Sports recovery
-Autism spectrum support
-Fibromyalgia
-Stroke recovery (adjunctive)
-And many other chronic conditions
11. Do I need an X-ray before starting upper cervical care?
Yes.
Upper cervical care requires extremely precise measurements.
We never guess with your spine or nervous system
12. Do you take insurance?
We are out of network, but:
-HSA & FSA cards are accepted
-Superbills are provided for possible reimbursement
-Many patients receive partial compensation based on their plan
13. Is the first adjustment done on Day 1?
Sometimes—depending on what we find.
If your case requires additional review, we will schedule your correction on Day 2 for accuracy and safety.
14. How long will I have to keep coming?
This varies.
Some people only need short-term corrective care, while others with chronic or long-standing issues benefit from periodic check-ins to maintain alignment.
The goal is lasting improvement, not endless treatment.
15. How do I know if upper cervical care is right for me?
If you’ve tried multiple treatments, have chronic symptoms, or feel like “something is still off,” then upper cervical care may address the root cause.
The best step is to schedule your initial consultation and exam.
16. Can upper cervical care help even if I’ve had chiropractic before?
Yes. Most patients who come to us have already tried traditional chiropractic, physical therapy, or other treatments.
Upper cervical care is different because it focuses only on the top of the spine and uses extremely precise measurements rather than general adjustments.
17. What if I don’t “feel” anything after my adjustment?
This is completely normal.
Some people feel immediate changes, while others notice improvements over days or weeks.
Healing happens internally first, and symptoms often improve gradually as the nervous system stabilizes.
18. Do I need to keep getting adjusted once I start?
Our goal is to adjust you as little as possible.
The better your body holds the correction, the less often you need adjustments.
We focus on stability, not frequent visits.
19. Can upper cervical misalignment affect the whole body?
Yes. Because C1 and C2 protect the brainstem, a misalignment in this area can influence:
-Posture
-Muscle tension
-Balance
-Nerve supply
-Digestion
-Breathing
-Sleep
-Blood flow
-Hormonal and autonomic function
This is why patients notice improvements in areas beyond just the neck.
20. Does your hyperbaric chamber make patients feel claustrophobic?
Not usually.
Our chamber is vertical, not horizontal like a tube, making it easier to step into and out of.
It is roomy, well-lit, and more comfortable for people who dislike enclosed spaces.
Most patients are able to utilize this service without issue!
21. How many HBOT sessions will I need?
This depends on your goals and condition severity.
Some people benefit from 10–20 sessions, while chronic or neurological cases may do best with 40+ sessions.
We create a plan based on your health history and response.
22. Can I do hyperbaric oxygen therapy and upper cervical care together?
Yes — in fact, they complement each other extremely well.
Upper cervical care improves nervous system regulation and blood flow, while HBOT increases oxygen delivery to tissues.
Together, they support healing at a deeper level.
23. What should I wear to my HBOT appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing.
For HBOT, avoid perfumes, lotions, or oils, and remove belts or restrictive clothing.
For chiropractic care, normal everyday attire is fine.
24. Is upper cervical care safe for kids or older adults?
Yes.
Our corrections are gentle and require no twisting or forceful manipulation, making them safe for:
-Infants
-Children
-Seniors
-People with arthritis
-People with prior injuries
-Post-surgical patients (Yes, even neck fusions)
25. What if I live far away?
Patients regularly travel 45–120 minutes to see us.
We offer flexible scheduling and individualized plans that minimize unnecessary visits while maximizing progress.
Many long-distance patients find it worthwhile because the care is highly specialized and results-oriented.
Want to Learn More?
If you still have questions, our team is here to help.
📞 Call (319) 343-8540 or schedule your first visit today!
