FAQs

Upper cervical chiropractic focuses on the relationship between the top two bones in the neck—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—and the nervous system.

These vertebrae help support the head, protect the brainstem, and play an important role in balance, posture, and spinal alignment.

At Southern Roots Chiropractic, Dr. Samantha Detore and Dr. Brandon Hass use Orthospinology to evaluate the upper cervical spine and determine whether misalignment in this area may be contributing to a patient’s symptoms.

Orthospinology is a specialized upper cervical technique that focuses on precise analysis and gentle correction of the atlas and axis vertebrae.

Using detailed imaging and measurements, Orthospinology chiropractors identify the exact direction and degree of misalignment before performing a correction.

The goal is to restore balance to the spine and nervous system while using as little force as possible.

Traditional chiropractic often involves adjusting multiple areas throughout the spine.

Orthospinology focuses specifically on the upper cervical spine because of the important role the atlas and axis play in overall body alignment.

Many patients appreciate that Orthospinology corrections are gentle, specific, and designed to support long-term stability.

No. Orthospinology corrections are extremely gentle and precise.

Many patients are surprised by how little force is required during a correction. The adjustment is designed to work with the body’s structure rather than relying on forceful movements.

The upper cervical spine protects the brainstem and serves as the foundation for the head.

Because the head weighs approximately 10–12 pounds, even a small shift in the atlas can influence posture and alignment throughout the rest of the body.

This is one reason upper cervical chiropractors pay close attention to the relationship between the head, neck, and spine.

Your first visit typically includes:

• a detailed health history
• discussion of your symptoms
• posture evaluation
• spinal examination
• neurological testing
• imaging if necessary

After reviewing the findings, Dr. Samantha Detore or Dr. Brandon Hass will explain whether Orthospinology care may be appropriate for your situation.

No referral is typically required.

Patients can contact Southern Roots Chiropractic directly to schedule an appointment.

We are out of network with all insurance companies. We can provide our patients with a superbill to submit to insurance on their own and receive reimbursement, if applicable.

Southern Roots Chiropractic serves patients from:

• Batesburg-Leesville
• Gilbert
• Lexington
• Aiken
• Saluda
• Columbia.

Many patients searching for an Upper Cervical chiropractor in Batesburg-Leesville SC and nearby communities travel to our office for Orthospinology care.

This version is much more focused, aligns better with Orthospinology, and builds stronger topical authority around Upper Cervical Care, migraines, headaches, and neck pain rather than diluting the page across too many conditions.

Many patients seek upper cervical care after experiencing recurring migraines or headaches.

Because the upper neck houses important neurological structures and supports the head, dysfunction in this area may contribute to tension, irritation, and abnormal stress patterns that affect some migraine sufferers.

Dr. Samantha Detore and Dr. Brandon Hass evaluate whether upper cervical misalignment could be playing a role in a patient’s symptoms.

Headaches typically involve pressure, tightness, or aching in the head and neck.

Migraines are often more complex and may include:

• throbbing pain
• nausea
• sensitivity to light
• sensitivity to sound
• visual disturbances
• dizziness

A thorough evaluation can help determine whether the upper cervical spine may be contributing to recurring symptoms.

In some cases, they can.

The muscles, joints, and nerves of the neck are closely connected to structures involved in head pain.

When the upper cervical spine is not functioning properly, it may contribute to tension and irritation that can influence headache and migraine patterns.

Many patients report migraine symptoms beginning after:

• car accidents
• sports injuries
• falls
• whiplash injuries

Even injuries that occurred years ago may continue to influence spinal mechanics and posture.

This is why Dr. Detore and Dr. Hass review previous injuries during the examination process.

Recurring neck pain often indicates that the underlying cause has not been fully addressed.

Common contributors include:

• poor posture
• previous injuries
• repetitive strain
• prolonged computer use
• forward head posture

Upper cervical care focuses on identifying whether misalignment in the upper neck may be contributing to these ongoing stress patterns.

Many patients visit Southern Roots Chiropractic because their neck feels stiff, restricted, or uncomfortable.

By evaluating alignment and motion in the upper cervical spine, Dr. Samantha Detore and Dr. Brandon Hass can determine whether upper cervical dysfunction may be contributing to reduced mobility.

Forward head posture often develops from:

• desk work
• smartphone use
• poor ergonomics
• previous injuries

Over time, this posture places additional stress on the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

Many patients are surprised to learn that upper cervical alignment can influence overall posture.