What is NUCCA?

In 1941, Dr. Ralph R. Gregory and Dr. John F. Grostic joined together and collaborated to develop a more accurate biomechanical system of upper cervical spinal correction. Their success eventually led others to join in with their pursuit and the Doctors began conducting educational seminars.

Dr. Gregory formed the NUCCA Organization (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) in 1966 after Dr. Grostic’s death. The NUCCA Organization was formed to conduct seminars and to do extensive research. Since its inception, NUCCA and its affiliate NUCCRA (the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research Association) have been instrumental in generating data on the cervical misalignment of the spine, the detrimental effects of this problem on the nervous system and how to correct it. NUCCA has helped thousands of people of all ages regain their health and wellness.

A Holistic Approach

The NUCCA organization supports an integrative approach to well being. As a patient, you are encouraged to keep regular visits with your other health care providers. Information about alternative care for maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also available from Dr. Ciano. Health maintenance is important and the more you understand, the more successful you will be in achieving and maintaining good health.

The Principle

The atlas vertebra is the top bone in the spinal column, and is located at the brain stem level where the nerve fibers ascend and descend to and from the brain. When the atlas is displaced, the nerves at the atlas level are stretched. This malfunction overloads the neuropath ways, causing the large extensor anti-gravity muscles of the back to contract, resulting in spinal distortion. This, in turn, causes pelvic imbalance and a functional contractured short leg. The effect is spinal nerves that are stretched and pinched.

This spinal distortion affects the nervous system and interferes with its normal function and your full health potential. When the body is not stable in the true vertical and horizontal planes of motion, the body will attempt to compensate for the stress caused by the imbalance. The resulting effect of imbalance can be pain, discomfort, and dysfunction.

If the atlas is displaced, it must be corrected to normal position so that the spinal imbalance and functional leg shortness are relieved. The atlas is adjusted according to a formula that is computed from the analysis of your x-rays. If the atlas is corrected to the normal position, the entire spinal column will return to its true vertical axis, permitting normal neurological functioning and alleviation of stress, pain, and discomfort. Each step of this process is based on measurement.