Why You Should Consider Upper Cervical Care for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

by Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

Chronic musculoskeletal pain that does not respond well to conventional treatment is more common than you might think. Many patients undergo repeated tests, take various medications, or receive physical therapy—yet still struggle with pain that seems to persist without a clear cause. In such cases, it is important to consider the role of the upper cervical spine (C1 and C2), which plays a critical role in whole-body regulation.

What Is the Upper Cervical Spine?

The upper cervical spine consists of the first and second cervical vertebrae, known as the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These vertebrae support the skull and protect the lower part of the brainstem, an area that governs:

  • Autonomic nervous system regulation (including digestion, circulation, and respiration)

  • Balance and proprioception

  • Pain modulation and sensory integration

Even subtle misalignments or functional disturbances in this region may affect these systems and lead to widespread symptoms in the body.

How Is Chronic Pain Related to Upper Cervical Dysfunction?

In clinical settings, we have seen cases where persistent or unexplained pain in other parts of the body actually stemmed from upper cervical imbalances. For example:

  • Chronic neck and shoulder tension

  • Unexplained low back or pelvic pain

  • Headaches and facial pain without identifiable cause

  • Pain that shifts between body regions or worsens with posture

  • Pain that does not improve with conventional muscular or joint therapy

These presentations may be related to functional disturbances in the upper cervical spine affecting central sensory processing or muscle tone regulation.

Why Should It Be Considered in Refractory Pain Cases?

In many patients, structural abnormalities in C1 and C2 do not show up clearly on standard MRI or X-rays. The problem is not always anatomical—it can be functional or neurological. Since this area is closely connected to postural control and neurovascular pathways, dysfunctions here can affect how the body perceives and responds to pain.

By addressing the upper cervical alignment and neurological feedback systems, we often see improvements not only in the local region but also in distant areas of the body. It may help reduce sympathetic overdrive, improve spinal balance, and restore a sense of postural stability.

Our Clinical Approach

At Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic, we evaluate each case thoroughly with:

  • Neurological reflex testing, leg length checks, and postural assessments

  • Functional interpretation of imaging (CBCT, if available)

  • Manual therapy methods informed by both rehabilitation medicine and chiropractic principles

Instead of general spinal manipulation, our clinic applies specific, low-force techniques based on American upper cervical protocols and combines them with non-surgical nerve block or injection therapy when appropriate.

In Conclusion

When chronic musculoskeletal pain does not improve despite standard treatments, it is worth investigating whether upper cervical imbalance may be contributing. This approach does not replace conventional care but may provide a crucial piece of the puzzle in managing difficult pain conditions.

We are here to listen, assess carefully, and offer individualized, non-invasive treatment options tailored to your needs.

If you have questions or wish to schedule a consultation, please feel free to contact our clinic. 

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)


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