A Natural, Gentle Option for Parkinson’s Symptoms
Living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) often means navigating daily challenges like tremors, stiffness, fatigue, and mobility issues. While medication and physical therapy are key tools for managing symptoms, a lesser-known but promising approach is gaining attention: upper cervical chiropractic care.
Amongst other research, a 2011 case study by Dr. Jonathan Chung and Dr. Justin Brown explored the impact of precise upper cervical adjustments on a Parkinson’s patient, and the results were remarkable.
Let’s look at how alignment of the upper cervical spine may influence neurological function and why this natural approach might be worth exploring.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Parkinson’s Symptoms
The upper cervical spine, specifically the atlas (C1) vertebra, sits just beneath the skull and surrounds the brainstem, a crucial structure that controls movement, balance, muscle tone, and communication between the brain and body.
When this area is misaligned (a condition called an upper cervical subluxation), it can disrupt:
- Nervous system communication
- Blood flow to the brain
- Brainstem and spinal cord function
The 2011 case study suggests that correcting these misalignments may help reduce or improve symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease.
The Case Study: What Happened?
A 67-year-old woman diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease presented with:
- Tremors
- Muscle stiffness (rigidity)
- Weakness
- Postural changes
- Difficulty walking and moving
Imaging revealed a significant misalignment in her atlas vertebra.
The Care She Received:
Using a precision-based upper cervical protocol similar to Orthospinology, her upper cervical chiropractor:
- Monitored her over a 6 month period
- Adjusted her upper cervical spine 12 times
- Used advanced testing like digital X-rays to guide and measure care
The Results: A Noticeable Transformation
Following consistent, customized upper cervical care, the patient reported:
✅ Improved walking and movement
✅ Reduced tremors and muscle stiffness
✅ Increased strength and coordination
✅ Better posture and spinal alignment
Most notably, these were not just subjective improvements—objective tests confirmed measurable changes in nervous system function.
What This Could Mean for People with Parkinson’s
Although this is just one case study, it supports a growing body of research indicating that correcting upper cervical misalignments may positively influence brain-body communication.
Here’s why it matters:
- The brainstem is the hub of movement and balance—misalignment at the atlas can disrupt its function
- Correcting that misalignment reduces pressure on the nervous system and improves blood flow
- Upper cervical care may help the body self-regulate, resulting in less rigidity, better mobility, and enhanced quality of life
While chiropractic care is not a cure for Parkinson’s, it may be a valuable, non-invasive complement to your current treatment plan.
Why Orthospinology Is the Right Fit
At Atlas Chiropractic in Waco, TX, we use a highly specialized form of care called Orthospinology—the same type of precision-based technique used in this study.
Here’s what sets us apart:
✔️ Detailed imaging to guide each adjustment
✔️ No twisting, popping, or cracking
✔️ Data-backed progress tracking
✔️ A focus on spinal and neurological stability
This approach is ideal for patients with neurological conditions who need a safe, gentle, and effective way to support their nervous system.
Could Upper Cervical Chiropractic Help You or a Loved One?
If you or someone you care about is living with Parkinson’s and looking for a natural way to support mobility, reduce tremors, and improve quality of life, we’re here to help.
At Atlas Chiropractic, we listen, we measure, and we deliver customized, brain-focused care with compassion.
Located in Waco, TX?
Let’s talk. Schedule a consultation and discover how Orthospinology upper cervical chiropractic care may be the missing link in your health journey.