Effect of Atlas Vertebrae Realignment in Subjects with Migraine: An Observational Pilot Study

Dr. Chris Slininger, DC, DCCJP • December 30, 2024

A Research Article by Dr. H. Charles Woodfield 3rd, et al.

Precision Upper Cervical Care Offers Hope for Migraine Sufferers


Migraines are a life-altering condition that often defy conventional treatments. This study explored how precise atlas realignment, a foundational element of upper cervical chiropractic care, can reduce migraine frequency and improve quality of life. The findings offer promising evidence that aligning the atlas vertebra may positively influence the brainstem and neurovascular systems, addressing migraines at their source.


While the study focused on the NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) technique, it represents one of several effective upper cervical approaches. At Cerebral Chiropractic Center in St. Petersburg, FL, we use the Advanced Orthogonal technique. This method employs a precision percussive sound wave adjustment, mirroring NUCCA’s principles of analysis and realignment to offer migraine sufferers an equally effective solution.


The observational pilot study involved 11 participants diagnosed with migraines by a neurologist. Each subject underwent an initial evaluation to confirm atlas misalignment. Over eight weeks, participants received care based on the NUCCA method, including precise adjustments and follow-up visits to monitor their alignment. Researchers measured changes in headache frequency, quality of life, and intracranial compliance (a measure of how the brain manages fluid pressure). Results were collected at baseline, week four, and week eight to assess the impact of realignment on migraine symptoms and overall well-being.


A New Perspective on Migraine Management


This study sheds light on the transformative potential of upper cervical care for migraine sufferers, especially those who struggle to find relief through traditional methods. By correcting atlas misalignment, researchers observed:



  • Fewer Headache Days: Participants reported an average reduction of nearly six migraine days per month by the eighth week. This significant improvement suggests that addressing biomechanical stress in the upper cervical spine can alleviate a major burden for chronic migraine sufferers.
  • Improved Emotional and Physical Well-being: Measures like the Migraine-Specific Quality of Life (MSQL) and Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) revealed marked improvements. Patients described feeling less restricted in their daily lives, showing that atlas realignment’s benefits extend beyond physical relief to emotional and mental health.
  • Encouraging Long-Term Potential: Two participants extended their participation to 24 weeks, maintaining or even enhancing their improvements over time. These outcomes hint at the possibility of sustained relief with ongoing care.


While the study’s results on intracranial compliance were mixed, the notable symptom relief and enhanced quality of life suggest that atlas realignment may support better neurovascular function and brainstem regulation. This pilot study paves the way for further research, offering hope for non-invasive, drug-free migraine management.


Read the Full Article


To fully explore the methods and conclusions discussed, check out Dr. Woodfield’s paper, Effect of Atlas Vertebrae Realignment in Subjects with Migraine: An Observational Pilot Study. Access the article here for a complete understanding of this important work.

A Groundbreaking Approach to Migraine Relief


For patients in St. Petersburg, FL, seeking effective migraine relief, the Advanced Orthogonal technique provides a precision-focused, non-invasive solution. By realigning the atlas vertebra, this approach reduces biomechanical stress and restores balance to the cranial-spinal system. Advanced Orthogonal’s sound wave adjustment is painless, precise, and tailored to each individual, offering a lasting and natural path to relief without invasive procedures or medication reliance.


Don’t let migraines control your day-to-day life. If you're in St. Petersburg, FL, the Advanced Orthogonal technique at Cerebral Chiropractic Center provides the precision care you need to regain control. Schedule your consultation today and discover how upper cervical care can make a difference.


<<Back toThe White Papers

More Articles

Craniofacial Changes after Combined Atlas-Orthogonal and Biomimetic Oral Appliance Therapy

By Dr. Chris Slininger, DC, DCCJP • December 30, 2024
Dr. G. Dave Singh, Dr. Chris Chapman, and Dr. Myles Preble demonstrated that combining upper cervical chiropractic care with biomimetic oral appliance therapy can significantly improve craniofacial alignment. The study highlights how integrating these therapies enhances structural stability and supports neurological health through a multidisciplinary approach.

The Role of the Craniocervical Junction in Neurological and Neurodegenerative Conditions

By Dr. Chris Slininger DC, DCCJP • December 27, 2024
Dr. Michael Flanagan’s research highlights how misalignments in the craniocervical junction disrupt cerebrospinal fluid flow, contributing to neurodegenerative conditions. This article explores these dynamics and how upper cervical care restores alignment, optimizes cerebrospinal fluid flow, improves cerebral blood flow, and supports brain health.

Headache and Migraine Breakthrough

By Dr. Chris Slininger, DC, DCCJP • June 25, 2024
Pain, Throbbing, Aching, Pressure, and Tension In The Head There has been a breakthrough in understanding why headaches and migraines occur and how to fix them. More studies have shown that problems in the upper neck play a big role in causing headaches. A specialized method of correcting the upper neck can reduce or eliminate the symptoms without drugs or injections. Headaches are not normal even though they are common. The amount of times a person gets a headache does not make it normal. It actually just means the problem is more severe and there is usually a root cause to the problem that has not been uncovered yet. Most people do not know the root cause of their headaches. This leaves many people simply managing symptoms with medication or just coping with the pain. Currently, the most common treatment for headaches is prescription drugs, and treatment like Botox injections is on the rise, even though it only provides temporary relief. In recent years, there has been a greater understanding of one of the more common root causes of headaches and migraines. Headache and migraine pain often originate from nerves in your upper neck. More specifically, it is in an area called the brainstem. (See figure 1) This brainstem is the transition point between the brain and the spinal cord. It is located at the base of your skull into the upper part of the neck. Inside of this brainstem is a group of nerves called the trigeminal nucleus, which is the pain center for the head, face, and neck. If this trigeminal nucleus of the brainstem gets irritated, it causes the head, and sometimes the face, to hurt. One of the most common causes of this type of nerve interference is an upper neck misalignment. An upper neck misalignment occurs when the bones of the upper neck get out of place from a fall, concussion , car accident, or some sort of head or neck injury. Unfortunately, not many doctors, chiropractors, or neurologists are trained to evaluate this specific problem, leaving many people suffering from headaches for years. The key to addressing these types of headaches and migraines is to find the root of the problem instead of masking the symptoms. If a person is found to have upper neck nerve irritation from a misalignment, then they would be a candidate for our specialized type of care used to realign the upper neck with a gentle correction. Once the upper neck has been properly realigned, the bones no longer irritate the nerves and the headaches begin to subside. This specialized type of care is called Upper Cervical Care . With so many people suffering from headaches, there is good news. This specialized treatment is available the Cerebral Chiropractic Center in St. Petersburg, FL, which opens February 2024. Dr. Chris Slininger, the founder of Cerebral Chiropractic Center, is a craniocervical specialist who has been practicing in the Tampa Bay Area for the last 10 years. Upper Cervical Care is a powerful, precise, and gentle approach to long term relief. If you are serious about recovery, schedule a free consultation. You will meet with Dr. Slininger to learn more about headaches and migraines and to see if you could be a candidate for treatment.
Share by: