"The upper cervical x-ray analysis we use to determine a subluxated atlas was originated by Dr. John F. Grostic in the 1930s and enhanced by Dr. Roy Sweat over the last 3 decades," said Dr. Watson.
The first x-ray we take is a Sagittal (Lateral or side view) of the cervical spine. The lateral x-ray view shows us the incline of the atlas vertebra.
A Frontal x-ray then allows us to determine the relationship of atlas to the center of the head and the center of the cervical spine.
A third x-ray (Horizontal or Vertex view) actually looks downward at the atlas bone. This allows us to see the atlas as it is positioned underneath the base of the skull.
"We analyze these three views using a computer analysis program developed by myself when I was a Chiropractic Intern, and a coordinate system developed by Dr. Roy Sweat, to get a 3-dimensional picture of a person's atlas misalignment. We calculate vertically and horizontally by both degrees and millimeters and calculate precisely how to reduce the misalignment through the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure."
"The friction ratio of the atlas synovial joint (the amount of force used to initiate a sliding motion between the joints) is very small. As a result, the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure achieves results using minimal force to realign the head, atlas, and spine. As the atlas is corrected, the pressure on the nerves will begin to dissipate and the body will begin to heal and function in a more normal manner."
"A traditional "hand" adjustment to this area of the spine needs between 18 - 21 lbs. of force to result in an adjustment. Because of the precision of the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure, our instrument is able to achieve superb results with only 4 lbs. of vibration wave force. If the patient feels anything, it is a slight "tickle". There is no "snapping" or "popping" involved. The patient is completely stationary during the entire procedure. Only the vertebra itself moves precisely toward normal alignment. As you can see, this is vastly different from the forces used by traditional chiropractic or osteopathic manipulations," said Dr. Watson.
"The Dr. Roy Sweat Foundation has scientifically demonstrated that atlas has an optimal response to these lighter percussion forces."
"There is a vast difference between the precision adjustment of the Atlas Orthogonal Procedure and traditional chiropractic manipulations of the neck. The Atlas Orthogonal Procedure is a non-invasive instrument that does not puncture the skin nor cause any of the "cracking" sounds from the neck as it restores the head and neck into their correct positions."
"The Atlas Orthogonal Procedure is far more exacting than traditional chiropractic, and it has the potential to be able to reproduce the exact adjustment in the future, if required, to correctly realign the atlas without excess force."
"We are always happy to give tours of our facilities and explain the procedures in more detail. People are always surprised that they really don't feel the vibratioin wave and their is no Pain involved," said Dr. Watson.
Anyone not currently under care with one of the other fine chiropractors in town is encouraged to discuss their chiropractic problems with Dr. Watson. Appointments are scheduled on Mon, Tue, Thur, and Friday.
Revised 11-3-2007
