
Upper Cervical Care for Neck Pain in Charlotte
What Does Chronic Neck Pain Have to do With the Top of Your Spine?
If you're like most chronic neck pain sufferers, then you've likely tried everything to manage your pain. However, if you're only treating the symptoms, then it's likely that you're still dealing with chronic neck pain. One of the most common causes of chronic neck pain stems from head and neck injuries that go undiagnosed.
The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae protect the brainstem and house critical neurological pathways that control head and neck alignment.
When these vertebrae are misaligned—known as an upper cervical subluxation—they can disrupt nerve signaling between the brainstem and the muscles of head and neck alignment and posture.
This miscommunication may cause the onset or severity of chronic neck pain.

Signs You May Have an Upper Cervical Subluxation
Could an Upper Cervical Subluxation Be Causing Your Chronic Neck Pain?
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Persistent or recurring neck pain
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A dull, achy, or sharp pain in the neck that doesn’t resolve with rest.
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Often felt at the base of the skull or at the top of the neck.
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Headaches or Migraines.
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Tension headaches or migraine-like symptoms originating from the upper neck.
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Often associated with pressure at the back of the head or radiating toward the eyes or temples.
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Reduced range of motion
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Difficulty turning or tilting the head fully.
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May notice stiffness or tightness, especially after sleeping or long periods of sitting.
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Muscle imbalance or tightness
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Uneven shoulder height or head tilt.
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Chronic tension in neck and upper back muscles, often with trigger points or spasms.
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Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the shoulders, arms, or hands.
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Occasional dizziness, vertigo, or visual disturbances due to brainstem irritation.
How Upper Cervical Care Works
A Precise, Non-Invasive Approach to Chronic Neck PAin
Upper Cervical Care focuses on the precise detection and correction of misalignments at the top of the spine, specifically the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae.
At Charlotte Family Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. Arthur Plesa begins by using spinal thermography, a non-invasive scan that detects abnormal heat patterns along the spine, helping to determine whether an upper cervical subluxation is disrupting the nervous system and contributing to a patient's condition.
If nerve interference is found, digital x-rays are then taken to analyze the exact direction and degree of misalignment in the upper cervical spine.
Using this detailed information, Dr. Plesa applies the Knee Chest Specific Chiropractic technique—a gentle, precise, and powerful adjustment method—to restore proper alignment, allowing the nervous system to function optimally and the body to heal naturally.

"We don't just chase symptoms- we correct the cause so your body can recalibrate and heal."
– Dr. Arthur Plesa
Why Choose Dr. Arthur Plesa?
When searching for a trusted Charlotte chiropractor for chronic neck pain or a knowledgeable upper cervical specialist in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Arthur Plesa stands out for his patient-centered approach and commitment to results.
Serving Charlotte residents since 2009, Dr. Plesa is known for truly listening to each patient and addressing the root cause of their health concerns.
He utilizes advanced diagnostic tools like spinal thermography and digital x-rays to detect and analyze upper cervical subluxations with precision. His specialized training in the Knee Chest Specific Chiropractic technique allows him to deliver gentle, accurate adjustments that restore nervous system function—often improving symptoms related to digestion, migraines, fatigue, and more.
Dr. Plesa's approach is supported by his recent 2024 research publication in Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research showing the neurological and systemic benefits of upper cervical care, making him a leading choice for those seeking lasting health improvements through natural, non-invasive methods.

REAL PATIENTS. REAL CHRONIC NECK PAIN RELIEF.
Peter A.
"Years of severe neck pain went away after a few weeks seeing Dr. Plesa."
Martha K.
"The pain was so severe that I had to take prescription pain killers just to get through my day. Adjustments with Dr. Plesa got me out of pain and no more pain meds."
Julia N.
"Upper Cervical Care has given me my life back. No more chronic neck pain. No more pain medication."
Ready to Experience the Difference With
Upper Cervical Care?
Take the first step toward lasting relief and whole-body wellness with focused Upper Cervical Care by Dr. Arthur Plesa.
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No pulling, jerking, or twisting
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Precision-based spinal correction
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Natural, long-term results
✔️ Safe & Gentle Care
✔️ Serving Charlotte Since 2009
✔️ 5-Star Patient Satisfaction