Posted on12 August 2025,in

Upper Cervical Care: If you’ve been searching for a “chiropractor near me” who looks beyond temporary relief to resolve the root cause of headaches, migraines, vertigo, TMJ, neck pain, POTS, trigeminal and occipital neuralgia, or lingering post-concussion symptoms, welcome. At Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, Florida, we focus on one crucial area that controls so much of your body’s function—your upper cervical spine (the atlas and axis). Our providers—Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski—deliver gentle, highly specific care powered by 3D CBCT imaging and functional nervous system scans, so you get answers and a plan that makes sense for your life.

This in-depth guide explains what upper cervical chiropractic is, how our technology and methods work, and where well-known techniques like Atlas Orthogonal, EPIC, Blair, Knee Chest, Orthospinology, NUCCA, and Toggle fit in—along with why our office specializes in AHKC (Advanced HIO Knee-Chest) to deliver precise, reproducible results without twisting or popping.

What Is Upper Cervical Care—and Why the Atlas Matters

Your atlas (C1) and axis (C2) sit at the top of your spine and cradle your brainstem, the neural “switchboard” for balance, blood flow regulation, pain perception, immune and autonomic function, and more. Because this area is uniquely mobile and structurally sophisticated, small misalignments can:

Disturb brain-body communication,
Alter posture and spinal tension from the top down,
Disrupt blood and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics,
Aggravate pain-sensitive structures, and
Keep you stuck in a sympathetic “fight-or-flight” loop.

Upper cervical chiropractic evaluates and corrects these misalignments with mathematical vectors tailored to your anatomy. When corrected gently and precisely, the body often self-organizes: muscles relax, posture normalizes, and the nervous system becomes measurably calmer. That’s why many people with stubborn, multi-symptom problems finally experience meaningful relief when the upper neck is addressed correctly.

Our Technology: 3D CBCT + Functional Nervous System Scans

3D CBCT (cone-beam computed tomography) gives us a rotational, three-dimensional view of your craniocervical junction. Unlike flat, two-dimensional images, CBCT allows us to measure joint angles, see asymmetries, visualize bony pathways, and plan an adjustment vector with exceptional precision. This keeps your care gentle and targeted—no guessing, no generic “one-size-fits-all.”

We pair CBCT with functional nervous system scans (including paraspinal infrared thermography such as Tytron). Thermography measures heat asymmetries along the spine that correlate with autonomic nerve function. It helps us:

Establish a baseline of your nervous system tone,
Decide when you need an adjustment (and when you don’t),
Verify a positive shift after your correction, and
Track progress visit by visit.

Together, CBCT and functional scans make your care more objective, personalized, and repeatable—and they help us adjust less often by correcting the cause with precision.

Why We Specialize in AHKC (Advanced HIO Knee-Chest)

We’ve tested and refined what works best for complex cases in real life. That’s why our office features AHKC—Advanced HIO Knee-Chest—a modern, gentle, and highly specific upper cervical approach that:

Uses 3D CBCT to calculate a unique vector for your atlas/axis,
Employs functional nervous system scans to determine optimal timing,
Requires no twisting, popping, or forceful manipulation, and
Prioritizes post-adjustment neuro checks to confirm change.

On the knee-chest table, your head and neck are supported while we deliver a quick, light, directional contact to unlock the misalignment. The goal isn’t to “move a lot”—it’s to release the right vector once so your body can do the healing. Many patients find AHKC surprisingly comfortable and are shocked that something so gentle can produce meaningful changes in headaches, dizziness, jaw tension, brain fog, and neck/shoulder pain.

How Other Upper Cervical Techniques Fit In

Upper cervical chiropractic is a family of methods that share a common focus (C0–C2) but differ in how they analyze and correct. You’ll see these names online—here’s how they work and how they relate to what we do.

Atlas Orthogonal (AO)

Method: Instrument-assisted atlas correction using a percussive, sound-wave–like impulse through a stylus.
Analysis: Orthogonal (90°) model with precise angle measurements from specialized imaging.
Feel: Very gentle; patients usually feel minimal pressure.
Where it overlaps: Like AHKC, AO emphasizes geometry and specificity. We appreciate its gentleness and mathematical approach.

EPIC (Evolutionary Percussive Instrument Corrections)

Method: A modern instrument-based system derived from orthogonal work that emphasizes multi-axial vectoring and detailed imaging analysis.
Analysis: Refined imaging protocols to calculate custom vectors.
Feel: Extremely light, instrument-delivered correction.
Where it overlaps: Shares our values of high specificity and reproducibility; we likewise build plans from exact measurements.

Blair Upper Cervical

Method: Hand-delivered, side-specific atlas/axis corrections that respect the natural asymmetry of the joints.
Analysis: Blair views (specialized, angled images) identify misalignment pathways unique to your anatomy.
Feel: Gentle toggle-style or similar thrusts tailored to your joint geometry.
Where it overlaps: Like our AHKC analysis, Blair honors individual joint shapes rather than forcing a “square peg into a round hole.”

Knee Chest Upper Cervical (HIO)

Method: Patient kneels with chest supported; the doctor delivers a precise, quick, light correction to C1/C2.
Analysis: Detailed vector calculations (we enhance this with CBCT).
Feel: No twisting or gross manipulation—just a brief directional impulse.
Where it overlaps: This is the platform for our AHKC approach; we’ve advanced it with modern imaging and neuro-metrics.

Orthospinology

Method: Orthogonal system using hand or instrument corrections to align atlas relative to skull and lower neck.
Analysis: Precise angle measurements often using digital radiographic analysis.
Feel: Gentle, measured corrections with post-checks.
Where it overlaps: A shared commitment to angles, math, and objectivity that mirrors our reliance on CBCT vectors.

NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association)

Method: A very gentle, hand-delivered correction with the patient typically side-lying on a specialized headpiece.
Analysis: Detailed orthogonal analysis focusing on global postural change after atlas correction.
Feel: Subtle and low-force; many patients barely feel the adjustment.
Where it overlaps: NUCCA’s emphasis on global postural balance parallels our commitment to whole-body changes from precise upper cervical work.

Toggle (Toggle Recoil)

Method: Classic upper cervical hand adjustment with a quick contact and instant release (“recoil”).
Analysis: Traditional film analysis; some doctors incorporate modern imaging for vector refinement.
Feel: Fast, light, and specific—designed to be efficient rather than forceful.
Where it overlaps: Toggle’s elegance is in its speed and specificity, two attributes we maintain in AHKC with modern imaging oversight.

Bottom line: These techniques are like different instruments in the same orchestra. Each aims to correct the atlas/axis precisely so the nervous system can regulate and heal. Our clinic specializes in AHKC because it pairs beautifully with 3D CBCT and functional nervous system scans, letting us be ultra-specific and measure real-time change—without twisting, popping, or guesswork.

Who We Help (and Why Upper Cervical Care Works So Well)

When the upper neck is misaligned, the body compensates. Muscles splint, posture tilts, the jaw tracks unevenly, and the autonomic nervous system runs hot. Correcting the atlas/axis can help the body rebalance, which is why people seek us for:

Headaches & Migraines (including weather or hormone-triggered): reduced neck/occipital tension and improved autonomic balance can calm the frequency and intensity.
Vertigo & Dizziness (BPPV, vestibular migraine, PPPD, MdDS, Meniere’s-like symptoms): better upper neck mechanics may improve proprioceptive accuracy and reduce sensory mismatch.
TMJ & Jaw Pain: a level atlas reduces jaw overload, bite strain, and masticatory muscle guarding.
Neck, Shoulder & Upper Back Pain: less guarding and better head carriage reduce chronic strain.
Post-Concussion & Whiplash Sequelae: restoring alignment and neuroflow at the craniocervical junction can unlock stubborn symptoms like brain fog and light sensitivity.
POTS & Dysautonomia Patterns: while every case is unique, many patients report improved tolerance and regulation when the cervical-autonomic relationship calms.
Trigeminal & Occipital Neuralgia: reducing mechanical irritation and neurovascular congestion in the upper neck can help desensitize pain pathways.

We never promise a cure, but we do promise an evidence-informed, measured approach designed to remove mechanical interference so your body can do what it’s designed to do—heal.

Your First Visit: What to Expect

Conversation & History
We want your story. Triggers, timelines, prior care, sleep, stress, injuries, dental or orthodontic history—details matter.
Functional Nervous System Scans
We obtain thermography and other neuro-metrics to understand your current autonomic tone and establish a baseline.
3D CBCT Imaging (When Clinically Indicated)
CBCT provides the anatomical truth—joint angles, asymmetries, and vectors we could never guess by feel.
Report of Findings
We review your images and scans together, map the exact vector for your atlas/axis, and outline a plan.
First AHKC Correction
A gentle, quick, precise correction—no twisting, popping, or cracking. Most patients are shocked at how light it is.
Post-Checks
We re-check your nervous system scans and structural indicators to verify that your body responded.
Follow-Up & Pattern-Based Care
We adjust only when necessary. If your scans and indicators show stability, we celebrate and skip the adjustment—saving your spine and your budget.

Why Our Approach Is Different

Technology-led precision: 3D CBCT + functional scans mean fewer adjustments and more lasting change.
Gentle by design: AHKC requires no twisting or popping—great for sensitive, post-injury, or anxious patients.
Objective tracking: We show you measurable change.
Team-based care: Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski collaborate on complex cases.
Local, committed, and accessible: Proudly serving Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Ellenton, Venice, Osprey, Punta Gorda, St. Petersburg, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, and Myakka City.

If you’ve tried “everything” and still feel unheard, this is your invitation to experience care that is thorough, respectful of your body, and laser-focused on the upper neck.

Top 15 FAQs About Upper Cervical Care at Lavender Family Chiropractic

1) Will you twist or crack my neck?

No. Our AHKC approach is gentle and specific, with no twisting or popping. Most patients are surprised how light it feels.

2) How do you know where to adjust?

We use 3D CBCT to calculate an individualized vector and functional nervous system scans to determine when you need a correction.

3) Do you adjust on every visit?

No. We adjust only when your objective scans and indicators say you need it. Holding is healing—if you’re holding, we don’t adjust.

4) How many visits will I need?

It depends on your history, stability, and goals. Most care plans begin more frequently while we stabilize your pattern, then taper as you hold corrections longer.

5) What conditions respond well to upper cervical care?

Patients often seek us for migraines, vertigo/dizziness (BPPV, PPPD, vestibular migraine), TMJ, neck pain, post-concussion symptoms, POTS/dysautonomia, and neuralgias. We evaluate candidacy at your consultation.

6) Is CBCT safe?

CBCT uses focused, cone-beam imaging. When clinically indicated, it provides critical 3D detail that dramatically improves specificity and reduces unnecessary adjusting.

7) What if my previous X-rays or MRIs were “normal”?

Traditional images can miss positional and angular nuances at C0–C2. CBCT helps us visualize the exact joint geometry and build a vector that standard imaging may not reveal.

8) What does a functional nervous system scan show?

Thermography highlights autonomic imbalance patterns along the spine. We use it to decide when to adjust and to verify your response after the correction.

9) How quickly will I feel better?

Some feel lighter or clearer right away; others improve steadily over several weeks as the body reorganizes. The goal is not just quick relief—it’s lasting stability.

10) Do you treat the whole body or just the neck?

We correct the upper neck so the whole body can self-correct. Postural and muscular changes often cascade downward once the atlas/axis are balanced.

11) What if I’ve had a concussion or whiplash?

We routinely work with post-injury cases. AHKC is gentle and targeted, making it ideal when tissues are sensitive or reactive.

12) Can upper cervical help TMJ or jaw clenching?

A level atlas often reduces jaw strain and asymmetry. Many patients notice less clenching and improved jaw comfort as their head/neck mechanics normalize.

13) Is this the same as regular chiropractic?

Upper cervical is a subspecialty with different imaging, analysis, and light-force correction methods. It’s chiropractic—but far more targeted at the craniocervical junction.

14) Do you accept insurance?

Our office is out of network with insurance. Many of our patients receive a superbill to submit to their insurance for reimbursement based on their coverage. We offer many different payment options as well as finance options.

15) How do I get started?

Call us at (941) 243-3729 or visit www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com to schedule your consultation. We’ll review your history, perform functional scans, and—if indicated—acquire 3D CBCT to design your personalized plan.

Why People Choose Lavender Family Chiropractic

Best-in-class tech: We invest in 3D CBCT and functional nervous system scanning to remove guesswork.
AHKC expertise: A refined, gentle technique designed for sensitive and complex cases.
Education & empowerment: We explain everything so you understand the “why” behind your care.
Local leadership: Widely recognized as a premier upper cervical chiropractor Sarasota Florida resource serving greater Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Results that stick: Our priority is not how often we can adjust you—but how well you hold your correction.

Service Areas

We proudly serve Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Ellenton, Venice, Osprey, Punta Gorda, St. Petersburg, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, and Myakka City. If you’re searching for “upper cervical chiropractor near me,” “Vertigo doctor near me,” or “Migraine doctor near me” in Southwest Florida, our doors are open.

A Personal Note From Our Team

We meet people every day who’ve been told “everything looks normal” while they continue to feel anything but. If that’s you, we hear you. With precise imaging, objective scans, and a gentle corrective plan, we’ll work to uncover what’s been missed—and help your body find its way back to balance.

Schedule Your Consultation

Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota Florida offers complimentary consultations to learn more about you. Click the link below!

https://intake.chirohd.com/new-patient-scheduling/724/lavender-family-chiropractic

Visit our Website!

To learn more about us go to http://www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com

We also service Bradenton, Parrish, Ellenton, Ruskin, Venice, Tampa, St. Pete, Osprey, Longboat, Lakewood Ranch, Myakka City.

If you are not local, visit www.uccnearme.com to find a doctor in your area.

Lavender Family Chiropractic
5899 Whitfield Ave Ste 107, Sarasota, FL 34243
Call: (941) 243-3729
Web: www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com
Instagram: @lavenderfamilysrq | TikTok: @drrustylavender

Find out how a precise upper cervical correction can change the trajectory of your health—without drugs, surgery, twisting, or popping.