A concussion can change the way your body feels and functions, even long after the initial injury. Many people experience headaches, dizziness, neck pain, and trouble concentrating for weeks or months after a concussion. While rest and medical care are important, some people continue to struggle because their upper cervical spine is out of alignment. NUCCA chiropractic care focuses on this exact area—the top of the spine where the head and neck connect. When this part of the spine is shifted even slightly, it can affect healing. That’s why many people turn to Atlas Chiropractic to support their recovery. Here’s how NUCCA can help.
Understanding Concussions and the Upper Cervical Spine
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a hit, jolt, or sudden movement of the head. Even small impacts can cause the brain to move inside the skull. When this happens, it can affect balance, thinking, mood, and coordination.
During the same impact, the upper cervical spine—especially the atlas vertebra—can shift out of its normal position. This bone sits right under the skull and plays a key role in protecting the brainstem and supporting proper nerve function. When the atlas is misaligned, it can create tension, reduce blood flow, and affect communication between the brain and the body. These issues can make concussion symptoms last longer than they should.
Why Upper Cervical Alignment Matters After a Concussion
The atlas is one of the smallest bones in the spine, but it has a big impact on the body. When it is out of alignment, even by a tiny amount, the nervous system can become stressed. This can make it harder for the brain to heal after an injury.
People recovering from concussions often deal with symptoms like:
- Frequent headaches
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Trouble focusing or remembering
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Fatigue or “brain fog”
These symptoms may continue because the body is struggling to return to balance. NUCCA care aims to gently restore that balance by correcting atlas alignment. Providers trained in this method use precise measurements and gentle adjustments to help the body function better during the healing process.
How NUCCA Adjustments Work
NUCCA chiropractic care does not involve twisting, cracking, or forceful movements. Instead, it uses a soft and controlled adjustment to guide the atlas back into place. Before any adjustment is made, a NUCCA practitioner takes detailed images to understand the exact direction and degree of misalignment.
This type of targeted approach helps the body relax, reduces muscle tension, and allows the brain and spine to communicate more clearly. Many people report feeling lighter, steadier, or more comfortable after their first adjustment. These changes can play an important role in concussion recovery.
NUCCA and Headache Relief
One of the most common long-term effects of a concussion is ongoing headaches. These headaches often come from tension at the top of the neck. When the atlas is misaligned, the muscles around the skull and neck work harder to support the head. This creates tightness and irritation that can lead to pain.
By improving alignment, NUCCA adjustments can ease this tension and support better blood flow around the brain. For many people, this leads to fewer headaches and a clearer mind.
Improving Balance and Coordination
Balance issues are another common challenge after a concussion. The upper cervical spine is closely connected to the systems that help your body stay steady. When the atlas is not properly aligned, signals between the brain and body may become mixed or delayed.
NUCCA care can help restore proper alignment, which may improve stability and reduce dizziness. Many patients notice that they feel more grounded and secure on their feet after care.
Supporting Mental Clarity and Focus
Many people recovering from concussions describe feeling mentally “foggy.” They may have trouble thinking clearly, concentrating, or remembering details. This can be frustrating and affect daily life.
Correcting atlas misalignment can help reduce stress on the nervous system. When the brain has clearer communication pathways, it may be easier to focus and think more clearly. This is one reason people recovering from head injuries often report improved mental clarity after beginning NUCCA care.
A Gentle Approach to Healing
Concussions require time and care to heal properly. NUCCA is a gentle, noninvasive way to support the body during this process. It does not replace medical treatment but can work alongside other care to help the body heal naturally. Since NUCCA adjustments are soft and precise, they are often a good fit for people who are sensitive or still recovering from trauma.
If you are still dealing with symptoms long after your concussion, it may be worth exploring whether atlas misalignment is playing a role. Getting evaluated by Atlas Chiropractic can help you understand what’s happening in your upper cervical spine and whether gentle adjustments could support your recovery. With the right care, your body can move closer to balance, comfort, and clearer function as you continue to heal.