The atlas holds
everything.
What is Upper Cervical Chiropractic?
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized form of chiropractic care that focuses on the alignment of the top two vertebrae in the spine: the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These vertebrae protect the brainstem, which controls vital functions throughout the body.
Misalignments in this area can interfere with the nervous system, leading to a wide range of health issues. Through precise, gentle adjustments, upper cervical care restores proper alignment without twisting, cracking, or popping.
We use 3D Cone Beam CT scanning technology for the most precise analysis possible.
We Listen.
We Care.
We Get Results.
We Listen.
We Care.
We Get Results.
ἰατρός, the healer. For over a decade, Apollo Upper Cervical Chiropractic has specialized in the one area of the spine that governs brain function and whole-body balance. We don’t twist. We don’t crack. We align.
Meet Your Doctors
Dr. Kosta Tsakalos
DC
Dr. Konstantinos Tsakalos has a great passion for helping others reach their fullest potential, and helps patients find lasting solutions to their healthcare needs.
- Founder of Apollo Upper Cervical Chiropractic
- President of the Manhattan District, New York Chiropractic Council
- Author of Anchoring the Doctor Within
Dr. Denicio Drake
DC
Dr. Denicio Drake, originally from Los Angeles, California, developed a strong expertise in upper cervical techniques while a student. He earned a certification for proficiency in the Blair Upper Cervical technique, further enhancing his skill set with other specialized upper cervical techniques and techniques focused on optimizing neurological and physiological function.
- Certified in Blair Upper Cervical
- Over 6 years of upper cervical experience
- Originally from Los Angeles, California
What to Expect as a New Patient
Day 1
Comprehensive Evaluation
During the first visit, we’ll go through your health history and concerns, perform a detailed neurological and chiropractic examination, you’ll receive an AI Postural assessment to evaluate structure/spinal alignment, and perform specific neurological, orthopedic testing & functional neurology muscle testing.
We also take a CBCT 3-D X-ray of the upper cervical spine, which is mandatory for all of our patients. This allows us to evaluate the structure and alignment of the upper cervical region in much greater detail and helps us determine the most precise approach to care. As well as further evaluate other cervical segments in the mid/lower neck.
Day 2
Report & First Adjustment
We review your imaging results and findings with you in detail, explaining exactly what we found and how we plan to help. If indicated, you'll receive your first precise, gentle upper cervical adjustment, with no twisting, cracking, or popping.
Ongoing
Progress & Wellness
Regular progress evaluations track your improvement with objective neurological testing. As your body holds its adjustments longer, you come in less often, and many patients move on to occasional maintenance visits.
Our Services
Manual Adjustment
Precise, hands-on upper cervical corrections, using techniques such as Blair Upper Cervical and QSM3, to restore the alignment of the atlas and axis.
Integrator Instrument
A handheld adjusting instrument, legally marketed for use only by licensed chiropractors, that delivers a fast, gentle and specific adjustment. A good fit for patients who prefer an instrument to a manual adjustment.
3D CBCT Imaging
Cone Beam CT scanning provides detailed 3D views of your upper cervical spine, allowing for the most precise analysis and adjustment vectors.
Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy gently stretches the spine, relieving pressure on compressed discs and nerves to promote healing and pain relief.
Rehabilitation
Targeted rehabilitation exercises and therapies designed to strengthen supporting muscles, improve posture, and enhance the effectiveness of your adjustments.
Corrective Exercises
Customized exercise programs you can do at home to support your spinal corrections, improve flexibility, and maintain proper alignment between visits.
Pregnancy & Pediatric Care
Gentle, specialized upper cervical care for expectant mothers and children. Safe adjustments that support healthy development and comfort throughout pregnancy.
10+
Years of Practice
3
Offices
45
Conditions We Help
1,000+
Patients Helped
What Our Patients Say
Wonderful personalized care with excellent advice for general health and well-being. I take a train 1.5 hours each way to see Dr. Kosta. He's great!
— Paola S.
Conditions We Help
Upper cervical chiropractic care can help with a wide range of health conditions by restoring proper nervous system function. Choose one to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions new patients ask us most.
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized form of chiropractic care that focuses on the alignment of the top two vertebrae in the spine: the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These vertebrae protect the brainstem, which controls vital functions throughout the body. Misalignments in this area can interfere with the nervous system, leading to a wide range of health issues. Through precise, gentle adjustments, upper cervical care restores proper alignment without twisting, cracking, or popping.
No. Upper cervical adjustments are extremely gentle. There is no twisting, cracking, or popping of the neck. The adjustment is a precise, controlled correction that most patients describe as a light pressure. Many patients are surprised by how gentle it is.
While general chiropractors adjust the entire spine, upper cervical specialists focus exclusively on the top two vertebrae. We use advanced 3D CBCT imaging to precisely measure misalignments down to fractions of a degree, allowing for highly specific corrections. This precision means fewer adjustments, longer-lasting results, and a focus on allowing your body to heal naturally.
Some patients notice a change soon after their first adjustment; for others it takes longer, because correction and healing are a process. Your care plan is built around your own exam, with regular progress evaluations so you and the doctor can see how you are doing.
We do not participate in insurance plans, and payment is due at the time of your visit. Many insurance companies do cover chiropractic care out of network, so we give you a superbill, an itemized statement of your care, to send to your insurer for reimbursement. Call your insurance company to ask what your plan covers.
Upper cervical chiropractic has helped patients with migraines, headaches, neck pain, back pain, vertigo, TMJ disorders, sciatica, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, trigeminal neuralgia, and many other conditions. By restoring proper alignment and removing interference to the nervous system, the body is better able to heal and function optimally.
Visit Our Offices
Precision upper cervical care across the New York metro area.
Astoria Queens
Astoria, NY 11103
Massapequa Long Island
Massapequa, NY 11758
SoHo NYC
New York, NY 10012